Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a cheesy, creamy casserole fresh from the oven. This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole has all the indulgent flavors of a loaded baked potato—crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a rich, velvety sauce—without the heavy carbs. It's the perfect low-carb side dish or even a main course for those who love a satisfying yet healthier alternative.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with keto-friendly dishes, and it quickly became a family favorite. Even my picky eaters, who usually turn their noses up at cauliflower, devour this dish without hesitation. Let’s dive into what makes this casserole a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort food. This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole isn’t just delicious—it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that works for any occasion.

First, it's incredibly low-carb and keto-friendly, making it perfect for those watching their carb intake while still craving something cheesy and satisfying. It delivers all the flavors of a loaded baked potato without the extra starch.

Second, this casserole is super easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have it in the oven in under 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick dish to bring to a potluck.

Another reason to love this dish? It’s packed with flavor. The combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, creamy sour cream, and tender roasted cauliflower creates a rich, indulgent bite every time.

And finally, it's versatile. Serve it as a side dish for steak or chicken, or enjoy it as a main course with a side salad. Plus, you can easily customize it with different cheeses, seasonings, or protein options.

Ingredients Notes

This casserole is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. Here’s what you need to know about each key ingredient.

Cauliflower – The star of the dish! Fresh cauliflower florets work best, but you can also use frozen cauliflower if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

Bacon – Crispy, salty bacon adds a ton of flavor and texture. Cook it until perfectly crisp before adding it to the dish. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter option.

Cheddar Cheese – A sharp cheddar brings bold, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Feel free to mix in mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different twist.

Sour Cream & Cream Cheese – These two ingredients create the creamy, tangy base of the casserole. Full-fat versions work best for richness, but you can use low-fat options if desired.

Green Onions – These add a pop of color and a mild oniony bite. If you prefer, you can substitute with chives or omit them altogether.

You’ll also need basic pantry staples like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to round out the flavors. If you have a little extra time, roasting the cauliflower before assembling the casserole will enhance its natural sweetness and prevent excess moisture.

How To Make This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

Making this Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is incredibly simple and requires just a few steps. Here’s how to do it:

Start by prepping the cauliflower. Cut a head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets and steam or boil them until fork-tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and pat dry to remove any excess moisture.

While the cauliflower is cooking, crisp up the bacon. In a skillet over medium heat, cook 6-8 slices of bacon until crispy. Once done, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Crumble them into small pieces once cooled.

Next, make the creamy cheese mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of sour cream, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon.

Once the cauliflower is dry, toss it into the cheese mixture and stir until all the florets are well coated. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, followed by the rest of the crispy bacon. Bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with sliced green onions before serving, and get ready to dig into a cheesy, flavorful dish!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely because this dish disappears fast!), here’s how to store and reheat your casserole.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
• Freezer: While this casserole can be frozen, the texture may change slightly due to the creamy ingredients. If you do freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe dish and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this casserole is how customizable it is. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
• Add More Protein – Stir in cooked shredded chicken or ground beef to turn this into a heartier main dish.
• Try Different Cheeses – Swap the cheddar for pepper jack, gouda, or parmesan to give the dish a new depth of flavor.
• Make It Vegetarian – Omit the bacon and add in roasted mushrooms or caramelized onions for a meaty texture without the meat.
• Use Broccoli Instead – If you're not a fan of cauliflower, you can substitute it with broccoli florets for a slightly different but equally delicious dish.

No matter how you customize it, this Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and irresistible crispy bacon topping, it's a dish that brings comfort to every bite. Give it a try and watch it become a regular favorite in your home!

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