Description
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is a cheesy, savory dish packed with flavor and topped with crispy bacon and fresh chives. It’s a satisfying low-carb alternative to traditional potato casseroles, perfect for comfort food lovers looking for a healthier yet indulgent option.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Cauliflower
- 2 lbs cauliflower florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
Cheese and Dairy
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, finely shredded
Seasonings and Add-ins
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Bacon and Garnish
- 6 slices crispy cooked bacon, coarsely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives, reserve one tablespoon for the top
Instructions
- Steam the cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for about 10 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well in a colander and set aside.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish for easy removal.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
- Combine ingredients: Gently fold the cooked cauliflower, half of the chopped bacon, and chopped chives into the cheese mixture. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to taste.
- Assemble the casserole: Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Top with the remaining chopped bacon for added crunch and flavor.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with the reserved chopped chives, and serve hot for a deliciously cheesy comfort dish.
Notes
- Feel free to add cooked diced chicken or other vegetables for variation.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little paprika or freshly ground black pepper on top before baking.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12 of casserole (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
