Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish that elevates vegetables to an indulgent new level, this Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Packed with melty cheese, smoky bacon, and tender cauliflower all baked into a creamy casserole, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy something healthy without sacrificing any of the rich, cozy flavors that make casseroles so beloved. From holiday dinners to weeknight meals, this dish delivers hearty satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe calls for simple, familiar ingredients that come together seamlessly. Each plays an essential role: cauliflower brings delicate texture and mild flavor, cheeses add gooey richness, and bacon injects that crave-worthy smoky crunch. Fresh chives brighten things up with a pop of color and subtle oniony aroma, making this dish a perfect balance of comfort and freshness.
- Cauliflower florets: Use about 2 pounds cut into bite-sized pieces for the right texture and tenderness.
- Fresh chives: 1/4 cup chopped, with a tablespoon reserved for garnish—adds freshness and color.
- Cream cheese: 8 ounces softened, for creamy richness that binds everything beautifully.
- Sour cream: Half a cup to keep the casserole moist and add a subtle tang.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups finely shredded, loaded with savory flavor and meltability.
- Monterey Jack cheese: 1 1/2 cups shredded, provides smooth, buttery notes and great melting texture.
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon, imparts gentle depth without overpowering.
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon, complements garlic and enhances savory layers.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning and balance.
- Bacon slices: Six slices, cooked crispy and chopped—adds crunch and smoky deliciousness.
How to Make Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Steam the Cauliflower
Start by steaming the cauliflower florets until they are fork-tender, which takes about 10 minutes. This ensures the cauliflower is soft enough to meld beautifully into the casserole without becoming mushy. Be sure to drain them well to keep excess moisture from making the dish watery.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Get your oven ready at 425°F (220°C). While it heats, grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick cooking spray. This step is key to preventing sticking and making it easy to serve later.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Then stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses along with garlic powder and onion powder. This mixture forms the luscious, cheesy heart of the casserole, binding everything together with spectacular flavor.
Step 4: Combine Cauliflower, Bacon, and Chives
Gently fold the steamed cauliflower, half of your chopped bacon, and most of the chives into the cheesy mixture. Season well with kosher salt and black pepper, tasting as you go to make sure the seasoning is just right. Mixing carefully helps keep the cauliflower intact so you get lovely chunks in every bite.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer your cauliflower and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the remaining bacon on top for a crispy finish. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the top shows golden hints. This final step transforms the dish into a warm, irresistible casserole.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the reserved chives over the top for a burst of vibrant green. Serve your Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe hot and watch it disappear as everyone digs in.
How to Serve Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chives adds just the right fresh note and makes the dish visually pop. For a little extra indulgence, try a handful of crispy fried onions or additional crumbled bacon on top. These simple garnishes elevate each serving into something truly special.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs perfectly with grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken, steak, or pork chops, turning a simple dinner into a cozy feast. For a lighter accompaniment, serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to balance out the cheese and richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions that feel fancy. Alternatively, scoop it onto crisp toasted bread for an irresistible cauliflower melt sandwich. Either way, the creamy texture and punchy flavors shine through beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, press a piece of parchment or plastic wrap directly on the surface to help retain moisture and prevent a dried-out crust.
Freezing
You can freeze this Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe either before or after baking. If freezing pre-baked, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed. For freezing leftover portions, place cooled casserole into airtight containers and reheat from frozen.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or heat a larger casserole dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil near the end to refresh the crispy top. Reheating slowly preserves that creamy texture and vibrant flavor perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cauliflower works well—just thaw and drain any excess moisture before steaming or cooking to avoid a watery casserole.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe contains no wheat or gluten ingredients, making it a great option for gluten-sensitive or gluten-free diets.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
You can skip the bacon or substitute with crispy smoked tempeh or mushrooms to keep those savory notes without meat.
What type of cheese works best?
The combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack creates the perfect balance of flavorful sharpness and smooth meltability, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for variety.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Peas, chopped broccoli, or even roasted red peppers can be stirred in to add more color and nutrition alongside the cauliflower.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting and delicious. It’s both nourishing and utterly indulgent, perfect to share with family or friends. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy cauliflower, packed with all the gooey cheese and crispy bacon goodness you crave.
Print
Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish that combines tender steamed cauliflower with a rich mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheeses. Topped with crispy bacon and fresh chives, it’s perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, offering a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional potato casseroles.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 lbs cauliflower florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (reserve one tablespoon for topping)
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 box (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
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Protein
- 6 slices crispy cooked bacon, coarsely chopped
Instructions
- Steam the cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam until fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture and set aside.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded sharp cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well incorporated.
- Combine ingredients: Gently fold the cooked cauliflower, half of the chopped bacon, and chopped chives into the cheese mixture. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to your taste, mixing gently to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Assemble and bake: Spoon the cauliflower-cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread out to create an even layer, then sprinkle the remaining chopped bacon on top. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top has melted.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and immediately sprinkle the reserved tablespoon of fresh chives over the top for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve the casserole hot as a comforting side dish.
Notes
- To make the dish vegetarian, omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and use less cheese.
- Make sure to drain the steamed cauliflower very well to avoid a watery casserole.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time, assembled, refrigerated, and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
