Description
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious, low-carb side dish perfect for comforting meals. Packed with creamy cheeses, crispy bacon, and savory seasonings, it combines tender cauliflower florets in a rich and cheesy bake that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 green onions, sliced (reserve a few for garnish)
Dairy
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Meat
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Spices & Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets for 5–7 minutes until they are fork-tender but not mushy. Drain thoroughly to remove excess water which could make the casserole watery.
- Mix the creamy base: In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, most of the sliced green onions (set aside some for garnish), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
- Combine cauliflower and cheese mixture: Gently fold the drained cauliflower florets into the cheese mixture, ensuring the cauliflower is evenly coated with the creamy blend.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the cauliflower mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent baking.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, then evenly distribute the crumbled cooked bacon.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until it is bubbly and the top is golden and slightly crisp.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the reserved sliced green onions on top just before serving for a fresh, flavorful finish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat content.
- You can add broccoli florets along with cauliflower for extra vegetable variety and nutrition.
- Swap cheddar cheese with pepper jack cheese if you prefer a spicier casserole with a kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
