Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

I made loaded cauliflower casserole as a side dish last night, and I can’t stop raving about it! It’s a total crowd-pleaser and a delicious way to enjoy veggies.

Picture tender florets smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, topped with crispy bacon and fresh green onions. It’s like a warm hug for your tastebuds!

What I love most about this casserole is how it combines all my favorite flavors in one comforting dish.

The combination of sour cream, cream cheese, and a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan makes the most amazing sauce. You won’t be able to resist it!

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

Comfort Food: This casserole delivers all the cozy satisfaction of a loaded baked potato with none of the carbs.

Time-Saver: Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-dish wonder requires minimal prep and cleanup, using only a bowl and baking dish.

Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters and potato lovers embrace this dish, thanks to its creamy, cheesy profile and crispy bacon topping.

Dinner Party Star: With its golden-brown cheese crust and colorful garnishes, it’s an impressive side dish.

Ingredients

• Cauliflower: It forms the hearty base of the casserole, providing a low-carb alternative to potatoes.
  
• Bacon: It adds a smoky, salty crunch as a mix-in and topping.
  
• Sour Cream: It creates a rich, tangy base for the cheese sauce. 
  
• Cream Cheese: It melts perfectly to create a luxurious coating for the cauliflower.
  
• Cheddar, Mozzarella, Parmesan Cheese: Each cheese serves a purpose. Cheddar brings sharp flavor, Mozzarella brings stretch, and Parmesan adds depth.
  
• Green Onions: They provide fresh, mild onion flavor and a bright color contrast.
  
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper enhance the overall flavors, while garlic and onion powders add savory depth.
  
• Fresh Chopped Parsley: It adds fresh color and subtle herb flavor. 

How to Make Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

This casserole is so easy since it’s made in one dish! 

1. Prep the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the cauliflower. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-6 minutes, until just tender. Drain and pat dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

3. Make the cheese mixture. In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Add the cauliflower and bacon. Add the drained cauliflower to the bowl and stir until the florets are well-coated with the cheese mixture. Fold in half of the crumbled bacon.

5. Transfer to a baking dish. Transfer the cauliflower mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.

6. Bake. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden.

7. Garnish and serve. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining bacon, green onions, and optional parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

Here are some of my best tips for making this dish shine.

• Prep the cauliflower properly. Cut florets uniformly for even cooking and ensure they’re thoroughly dried after boiling to prevent a watery casserole.
  
• Over-cook the bacon. Cook the bacon until it’s extra crispy, as it will soften slightly when mixed into the casserole.
  
• Go for full-fat. Use high-quality, full-fat cheeses for the best flavor and melting properties.
  
• Room temperature is key. Bring the sour cream and cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother consistency.
  
• Be generous! Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and other seasonings to enhance the overall flavor profile.
  
• Give it a rest. Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking to set and make serving easier.
  
• Try variations galore. Experiment with different cheese combinations, add diced jalapeños for heat, or incorporate diced ham for extra protein.
  
• Get ahead of yourself. This casserole can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven.

How to Store

Keep leftover casserole nice and fresh by following these steps.

To Store: Place the cooled casserole in an air-tight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil if storing in the original baking dish.

To Freeze: Transfer the completely cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or heat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. For the best results, add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before reheating.