Description
Comfort meets nutrition in this mouthwatering loaded cauliflower casserole that combines creamy textures with savory goodness. Crispy bacon, melted cheese, and green onions create a delightful symphony of flavors you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large heads cauliflower (cut into florets)
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups shredded colby jack cheese
- 8 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
Dairy and Cream Components:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 green onions (thinly sliced)
Seasonings and Spices:
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray or butter.
- Transform cauliflower florets into tender morsels through steaming, either using a stovetop steamer or microwave method. Ensure thorough draining and gentle pat-drying to remove excess moisture.
- Create a luxurious cheese blend by whisking together cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, and seasonings until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Fold the steamed cauliflower into the creamy mixture, ensuring each floret is generously coated with the rich, savory sauce.
- Distribute the cauliflower mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer for consistent cooking.
- Lavishly sprinkle the top with shredded Colby Jack cheese, crispy bacon pieces, and a dusting of paprika for enhanced flavor and visual appeal.
- Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts into a golden, bubbling surface and edges turn lightly crisp.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps the dish set and intensifies the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh green onion slices just before serving to add a bright, crisp finish to this indulgent side dish.
Notes
- Moisture Control: Pat the cauliflower extremely dry after steaming to prevent a watery casserole and ensure a creamy, thick texture.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, making it perfect for those avoiding traditional potato-based side dishes.
- Cheese Flexibility: Swap Colby Jack with cheddar, monterey jack, or a blend of cheeses to customize flavor profiles and match personal preferences.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready – perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 355 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 710 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg