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Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 24 reviews

This Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting and creamy side dish featuring tender cauliflower florets baked in a rich blend of cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheeses infused with garlic and onion powder. Perfect for a family dinner or holiday feast, it offers a delicious way to enjoy vegetables with a cheesy, golden crust.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets

Dairy & Cheese

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

Seasonings

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature while you prepare the casserole.
  2. Cook the cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets for 5-7 minutes until tender but not mushy. Then drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
  4. Incorporate cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture, ensuring an even distribution of cheesy flavor.
  5. Combine cauliflower and cheese sauce: Add the cooked cauliflower florets to the cheese mixture, folding gently until all pieces are well-coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
  6. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the cauliflower and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a golden crust.
  7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the top is beautifully golden brown.
  8. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, optionally garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm for a comforting cheesy side.

Notes

  • For a lower-fat option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce cheese quantities slightly.
  • You can add cooked bacon bits or diced ham for a non-vegetarian version.
  • Steaming the cauliflower helps retain nutrients better than boiling.
  • If preferred, swap out cheddar for gouda or mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
  • The paprika is optional but adds a nice smoky depth to the casserole.
  • Ensure cauliflower is well drained to prevent a watery casserole.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy cauliflower casserole, baked cauliflower, creamy cauliflower dish, vegetarian side, comfort food

Find it online: https://hannahdelgado.com/cheesy-cauliflower-casserole-recipe/