If you have a craving for a comforting yet wholesome dish, this Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe is going to be your new go-to favorite. It’s a delicious way to enjoy cauliflower, transforming humble florets into a creamy, cheesy, and smoky delight that the whole family will rave about. This casserole brings together bold cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, crispy bacon bits, and fresh chives for a flavor-packed experience that feels indulgent but is packed with vegetables, making it a perfect weeknight crowd-pleaser or holiday side.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe starts with a simple lineup of ingredients that each add their own special texture and flavor. From creamy cheeses to fresh herbs and smoky bacon, these components make every bite satisfying and rich.
- Cauliflower florets (2 lbs): The star vegetable, offering a tender but slightly firm base with a mild flavor that soaks up all the cheese goodness.
- Fresh chives (1/4 cup, chopped): Bright and subtly oniony, adding fresh color and a mild herbal note.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Creates a luxuriously creamy texture that binds the casserole together.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tang and richness, elevating the casserole’s decadence.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded): Delivers a robust flavor that defines this dish’s classic cheesy appeal.
- Monterey Jack cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded): Melts beautifully, providing a smooth, mild balance to the sharper cheddar.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and a gentle warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Complements the garlic with subtle sweetness.
- Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural taste.
- Crispy cooked bacon (6 slices, chopped): Brings irresistible smokiness and crunch, making each forkful with a bit of bacon unforgettable.
How to Make Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Steam the Cauliflower
Start by placing the cauliflower florets into a steamer basket set over boiling water. Steam them until they are fork-tender, about 10 minutes. This method cooks the cauliflower perfectly, softening its bite while keeping it from becoming mushy. After steaming, drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that can weigh down your casserole.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the cauliflower is cooking, set your oven preheating to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick during baking and will come out clean and beautifully presented.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream first, mixing until they’re smooth and creamy. Then add your shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses along with garlic powder and onion powder. Stir everything until you have a luscious, cheesy blend that will coat the cauliflower perfectly.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Gently fold the steamed cauliflower, half of the chopped bacon, and most of the chopped chives into the cheese mixture. Season the whole mixture with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. This step brings all the textures and flavors together, ensuring every bite is balanced and delicious.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cauliflower and cheese mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chopped bacon over the top to create a crispy, smoky crust. Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbling and melted, and the bacon topping is golden and crisp.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the reserved chopped chives over the casserole for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve this hot so you can enjoy the melty cheese, tender cauliflower, and crunchy bacon all in one delightful bite.
How to Serve Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like extra chopped chives or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper brings brightness to the rich, cheesy casserole. You might also consider a dollop of sour cream or a few scallion rings to enhance the creamy, savory notes.
Side Dishes
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re serving it as a main course, classic grilled chicken or a pan-seared steak will complement the creamy casserole beautifully without overwhelming the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins or muffin tins for personal servings. You can also layer the casserole with cooked ground sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal. A sprinkle of smoked paprika on top before baking adds a subtle smokiness that makes this dish even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover loaded cauliflower casserole to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner reheats throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can freeze it after baking. Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will maintain best quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place your leftover portion in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbling, about 15-20 minutes. Microwaving works too but baking helps restore that lovely baked cheese texture and bacon crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen cauliflower very well to avoid extra moisture in your casserole. You may want to steam it briefly too before proceeding with the recipe.
Is this recipe low-carb friendly?
Yes! Cauliflower is a fantastic low-carb alternative to potatoes in casseroles. This recipe’s creamy, cheesy, and bacon-loaded goodness fits well into many low-carb or keto meal plans.
Can I substitute the cheeses?
While sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack create a perfect blend of flavor and melt, you could substitute with mozzarella or gouda for different tastes. Just keep in mind the sharpness and melting properties may vary.
How do I make this vegetarian?
Simply leave out the bacon and maybe add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for that savory punch. You can also sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.
What should I do if my casserole is too watery?
Make sure to drain the steamed cauliflower really well before mixing. If it still seems watery, you can add a little extra cheese or bake it a bit longer uncovered to evaporate excess moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe is such a joy to make and eat. It turns simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying dish that tastes like a treat but is surprisingly wholesome. Whether you’re a cauliflower lover or a skeptic looking for a delicious new side, give this recipe a try—you’ll likely find yourself making it again and again for family dinners and special occasions alike.
Print
Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion. Featuring tender steamed cauliflower mixed with a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, and crispy bacon, this comforting casserole is baked to bubbly perfection and finished with fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 lbs cauliflower florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (reserve one tablespoon for topping)
Dairy
- 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, to taste
- 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 well and set aside to remove excess moisture for a creamier casserole.
- Preheat the 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 the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine ingredients: Gently stir the steamed cauliflower, half of the chopped bacon, and chopped fresh chives into the cheese mixture. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring even seasoning throughout.
- Assemble and bake: Spoon the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining bacon slices. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted, creating a golden crust on top.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with the reserved chopped chives. Serve hot as a delicious side dish to complement your meal.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, ensure the cauliflower is well-drained before adding to the cheese mixture.
- You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner version.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a milder cheese flavor, use mozzarella instead of Monterey Jack or cheddar.
