A creamy, cheesy cauliflower casserole baked to golden perfection, combining tender cauliflower florets with a rich blend of cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheese for a comforting side dish.
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Ingredients
Vegetables
1 large head 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, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Garnish
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
Cook cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until tender, about 7 minutes. Drain well and set aside to prevent excess moisture.
Mix cheese sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
Add cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture to create a rich cheese sauce.
Combine cauliflower and sauce: Add the cooked cauliflower florets to the cheese sauce and gently stir until all pieces are evenly coated.
Prepare baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer the cauliflower mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a golden crust.
Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the texture may be less rich.
To add more flavor, include cooked bacon or sautéed onions in the mixture.
If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Use freshly grated cheeses for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
This dish pairs well as a side with roasted meats or a hearty vegetarian main course.
