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This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is the perfect side dish when you want something creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor that comes together quickly. It offers a great way to enjoy cauliflower in a comforting, crowd-pleasing format that pairs well with many main dishes.
Ingredients
- Cauliflower: cut into bite size pieces to ensure even cooking and a tender bite
- Cream cheese: softened for smooth blending and creamy texture
- Sour cream: adds tang and richness balancing the cheese
- Seasoned salt: to bring out deeper flavors
- Garlic powder: enhances the savory notes without overpowering
- Onion powder: adds subtle sweetness and complexity
- Black pepper: for a gentle spice kick
- Crisp cooked bacon: crumbled for smoky crunch distributed throughout the dish
- Diced green onions: for freshness and a bright finish
- Colby jack cheese: shredded for melty, gooey cheesiness with a mild flavor
Step by Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly coat a 9 by 13 inch casserole dish with non stick spray to prevent sticking and easy cleanup
- Steam the Cauliflower:
- Place the cauliflower in a steamer and cook for about 10 minutes until the pieces are fork tender but still hold their shape. Drain all excess water thoroughly and dry them on paper towels so the casserole isn’t watery
- Mix the Creamy Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream with seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Add three quarters of the crumbled bacon and diced green onions. Stir until smooth and well combined
- Add Cauliflower and Cheese:
- Gently fold the steamed cauliflower and one and a half cups of shredded colby jack cheese into the creamy mixture so every bite will have cheesy goodness
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top followed by the last quarter of bacon crumbles. Bake uncovered in the oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from oven and scatter the remaining green onions on top before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but gives a fresh sharpness that cuts through the richness
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Storage Tips
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the cheese melty and the cauliflower tender without drying out. You can also freeze the casserole before baking; just cover tightly with foil and bake straight from frozen, adding extra time
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to cut calories without losing creaminess or tang. Use smoked gouda or sharp cheddar instead of colby jack for a different flavor profile. Turkey bacon works well if you want to reduce fat but still keep the smoky crunch. Fresh chives can replace green onions for a milder onion flavor and a pop of green on top
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled meats like chicken or pork. It can also complement a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well rounded meal. For a cozy holiday spread, it fits right in alongside ham and mashed potatoes
Cultural Notes
Cauliflower casseroles have become popular in American home cooking as a lower carb alternative to traditional potato dishes. This recipe draws on classic comfort food elements — creamy cheese, bacon, and green onion — that evoke nostalgic family dinners but with a fresh vegetable twist
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you steam cauliflower for this dish?
Steam cauliflower florets for about 10 minutes until fork-tender but not mushy, then drain excess water thoroughly.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used here?
Yes, cream cheese can be replaced with mascarpone or ricotta, and colby-jack with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a similar melty texture.
- → What’s the best way to add bacon for maximum flavor?
Cook bacon until crispy, crumble it, then fold most into the mixture and sprinkle some on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
- → How to ensure the casserole isn’t watery?
Drain steamed cauliflower well on paper towels to remove excess moisture before mixing to prevent sogginess.
- → Can green onions be swapped for another topping?
Chopped chives or finely diced shallots work well as alternatives, providing a mild onion flavor and fresh bite.