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Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 4 reviews

A creamy and cheesy cauliflower casserole that is simple to prepare and perfect as a comforting side dish or a vegetarian main. Tender cauliflower florets are coated in a rich blend of cheddar, cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan, then baked until bubbly and golden brown.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets

Dairy and 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 oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Cook cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are tender when pierced with a fork, approximately 7 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside to remove excess moisture.
  3. Make cheese sauce: In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Mix these ingredients well until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture, ensuring an even cheese distribution.
  5. Combine cauliflower and cheese sauce: Add the cooked cauliflower florets into the cheese mixture and gently stir to coat all pieces thoroughly.
  6. Prepare for baking: Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Transfer the cauliflower and cheese mixture into the dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Bake casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  8. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm as a delicious side or main dish.

Notes

  • Steaming the cauliflower helps retain nutrients and prevents it from becoming waterlogged.
  • You can substitute sharp white cheddar for a different cheese flavor.
  • If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
  • For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the cheese sauce.
  • This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking; increase baking time by 5–10 minutes if baking from cold.

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