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Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded Cauliflower Casserole
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Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, low-carb dish featuring tender cauliflower florets combined with rich cheeses, tangy sour cream, crispy bacon bits, and a crunchy buttered panko topping. Perfect for keto, paleo, and clean eating lifestyles, this comforting casserole is easy to prepare, versatile, and satisfying for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups cauliflower florets (about 1 medium head)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus 1/4 cup reserved for topping)
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp butter (plus additional dots for topping)
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until fork-tender but not mushy. Drain thoroughly to remove any excess moisture, which helps keep the casserole creamy and prevents sogginess.
  2. Mix the creamy base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Fold in most of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving some for topping, along with the cooked bacon bits and chopped green onions.
  3. Combine cauliflower and cheese mixture: Gently fold the cauliflower into the creamy cheese mixture, ensuring every piece is evenly coated to create a rich, cheesy base for the casserole.
  4. Bake with a crunchy topping: Transfer the mixture into a buttered casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Dot with butter for extra crispness.
  5. Bake until golden and bubbly: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and irresistible. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set.

Notes

  • Dry your cauliflower well: Excess moisture will make the casserole watery, so drain and pat dry thoroughly.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for more depth and boldness in flavor.
  • Don’t skip the bacon: Its salty crunch contrasts beautifully with creamy textures.
  • Let the casserole rest before serving to help it firm up and make slicing easier.
  • Make it ahead by preparing the casserole the day before and baking when ready to save time.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded cauliflower casserole, keto casserole, low carb side dish, cheesy cauliflower bake, keto dinner, cauliflower recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/loaded-cauliflower-casserole/