Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect as a side or even a main course. This recipe combines tender cauliflower with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, making it a great low-carb alternative to traditional pasta-based casseroles. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 2 heads cauliflower, cut into florets
- 5 eggs
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Additional ½ cup grated parmesan for topping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes, until tender but not mushy. Drain well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Add the Cheeses: Stir in the melted butter, shredded white cheddar cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese until fully incorporated.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Combine Cauliflower and Cheese Mixture: Add the drained cauliflower florets to the cheese mixture, stirring gently to coat all the florets evenly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the cauliflower mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the additional ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
4. Bake
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the dish set slightly.
5. Serve
- Serve: Scoop servings onto plates and enjoy while warm. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
Cook’s Notes and Variations
Tips:
- Cauliflower: Ensure the cauliflower is well-drained to avoid a watery casserole. You can also pat the florets dry with a paper towel.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda, fontina, or gruyère for varied flavors.
- Creaminess: For an even creamier texture, substitute half of the heavy cream with sour cream or cream cheese.
Variations:
- Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Casserole: Add cooked, crumbled bacon and swap out the white cheddar for sharp cheddar cheese.
- Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole: Mix in steamed broccoli florets with the cauliflower for a colorful and nutritious twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the cheese mixture for a spicy version.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the cheese mixture for an aromatic flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before using to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Q: Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk, and use dairy-free cheese options.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that can be easily adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Its rich, cheesy flavor and creamy texture make it a comforting favorite for any meal. Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction of this delightful casserole
