Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or as a side for a special occasion. This recipe transforms simple cauliflower florets into a rich, creamy, and cheesy delight that even picky eaters will love. The combination of three different cheeses adds depth and flavor, making this casserole a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 2 heads cauliflower, cut into florets
Fresh cauliflower works best, offering a tender but slightly crisp texture when baked. - 5 eggs
Eggs help bind the casserole together, creating a rich and satisfying texture. - 1 ½ cups heavy cream
Heavy cream adds creaminess and richness to the dish, making the casserole extra indulgent. - 1 ½ teaspoons salt
Enhances the overall flavor of the casserole. - ½ teaspoon pepper
Adds a subtle kick and balances the richness of the cream and cheese. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Provides a savory depth to the casserole. - 1 teaspoon onion powder
Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor that complements the garlic and cheese. - 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Butter adds richness and helps to bind the ingredients together. - 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
White cheddar offers a sharp, tangy flavor that’s perfect for a cheesy casserole. - ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the overall taste. - ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella brings a creamy, melty texture that’s essential for a gooey casserole. - Additional ½ cup grated parmesan for topping
Provides a golden, crispy topping that contrasts with the creamy interior.
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Cut the cauliflower into florets, discarding the tough stems. Wash and drain the florets well.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the cauliflower florets. Boil the cauliflower for about 5 minutes, just until they begin to soften.
- Drain the cauliflower and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the Egg and Cream Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Pour in the melted butter and whisk again to incorporate.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Place the boiled cauliflower florets into the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
- Pour the egg and cream mixture over the cauliflower, making sure it covers all the florets evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded white cheddar cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the cauliflower mixture.
- Add the Parmesan Topping:
- Sprinkle the additional ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a deliciously crispy, golden-brown crust as it bakes.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- If you prefer a more browned topping, you can place the casserole under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole:
- Use Fresh Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower will give you the best texture. If you use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it completely to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Gruyère, Gouda, or even blue cheese can be great additions for a unique flavor twist.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the tender texture of cauliflower. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served as a main dish for a low-carb meal or as a hearty side dish alongside roasted meats or poultry. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
