Description

Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting and healthy dish combining creamy cheese, tender cauliflower, and flavorful seasonings for a low-carb, family-friendly meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it offers cheesy goodness and hearty texture without heaviness, making it an excellent option to sneak extra veggies into your diet.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Base

1 large fresh cauliflower head, cut into small florets
2–3 chopped green onions, divided

Cheeses and Dairy

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream

Seasonings & Others

1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup crispy bacon bits

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower: Start by washing and cutting the cauliflower into small florets. Steam or boil them until tender but still firm, avoiding mushiness. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture, which is important to prevent a watery casserole.
Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy, forming the luscious sauce that binds the casserole together.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked cauliflower, shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and most of the chopped green onions into the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat the cauliflower evenly with the cheesy mixture.
Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and reserved green onions. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let It Rest and Serve: After baking, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes to set. This makes slicing and serving easier while preserving the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

Notes

Don’t overcook cauliflower; keep it tender but firm to retain texture within the creamy casserole.
Drain cauliflower well to prevent excess moisture that can make the dish watery.
Use sharp cheddar cheese for a richer, more distinct cheese flavor.
Customize toppings by adding extra bacon, cheese, or fresh herbs just before serving for added flavor and texture.
Letting the casserole cool slightly after baking enhances texture and helps it hold together when sliced.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: loaded cauliflower casserole, low carb casserole, cheesy cauliflower bake, healthy comfort food, gluten free casserole