Cauliflower casserole is a cozy, satisfying dish that proves you don’t need pasta or potatoes to create true comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, making it the perfect side dish—or even a main course for lighter meals. I first made this casserole as a low-carb alternative to traditional potato bakes, and it was a total hit! The cauliflower turns tender and flavorful when baked in a rich cheese sauce, while the golden, bubbly topping adds just the right amount of indulgence. I’ve even mixed in crispy bacon bits before, and it made it absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side for family dinners or a wholesome make-ahead dish for busy nights, this cauliflower casserole is a winner every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cauliflower casserole is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying while being low in carbs and full of nutrients. It’s easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and versatile enough to pair with almost any main dish. The combination of tender cauliflower, savory sauce, and melted cheese makes it both indulgent and wholesome. It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or meal prep—and it reheats beautifully. Once you try it, it’ll quickly become your go-to comfort casserole.
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Cauliflower Casserole – Creamy, Cheesy, and Comfortingly Delicious
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting baked dish featuring tender cauliflower florets in a rich sauce topped with melted cheese — a perfect low-carb alternative to traditional potato casseroles.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 6 cups)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus ½ cup for topping)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 5 minutes until just tender. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in sour cream, cream cheese, 1 cup cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Fold in the cooked cauliflower and stir until evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add a topping of crushed pork rinds or breadcrumbs mixed with butter before baking.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits for a loaded cauliflower version.
- This dish pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cauliflower florets – The star of the dish, providing a mild flavor and tender bite once baked.
Butter – Adds richness and helps form the creamy base.
Garlic – Infuses the sauce with depth and savory flavor.
Cream cheese – Gives the sauce a smooth, velvety texture and tangy taste.
Heavy cream or milk – Creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the cauliflower perfectly.
Cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and gives the casserole its cheesy comfort.
Parmesan cheese – Adds nutty, salty depth to the topping.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for balancing flavors.
Paprika (optional) – Adds warmth and color to the topping.
Fresh parsley or chives (optional) – For a pop of freshness before serving.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5–6 minutes until just tender but not mushy. Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream, whisking until smooth and creamy. Add half of the cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked cauliflower to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving, then garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Bacon Cauliflower Casserole – Add crispy bacon bits to the mix or sprinkle them on top before baking.
Loaded Cauliflower Casserole – Mix in sour cream, green onions, and shredded cheese for a loaded “baked potato” flavor.
Broccoli-Cauliflower Blend – Combine cauliflower with broccoli florets for extra color and nutrition.
Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
Keto Cauliflower Casserole – Use full-fat dairy and skip any starches for a low-carb version.
Veggie-Packed Version – Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle crushed pork rinds, breadcrumbs, or fried onions for added crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, just thaw and drain it well before using to prevent excess moisture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, whole milk works fine, but cream gives a richer, thicker sauce.
What cheeses work best?
Cheddar and Parmesan are classics, but Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack are great alternatives.
How do I keep it from getting watery?
Be sure to drain and pat the cauliflower dry before adding it to the sauce.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives.
Can I add protein?
Shredded chicken or cooked sausage turn it into a complete meal.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking or after—it reheats beautifully.
Can I use other vegetables?
Definitely—broccoli, spinach, or zucchini are great additions.
Conclusion
Cauliflower casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and comforting goodness. With its tender cauliflower base, rich cheese sauce, and bubbly golden top, it’s a dish that brings warmth to any meal. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a main, it’s hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and endlessly customizable—make it your own with added veggies, bacon, or your favorite cheeses. Once you try this classic recipe, it’ll become a staple for weeknights, holidays, or anytime you crave a cozy, cheesy bake.