Description
Comforting Midwestern loaded cauliflower casserole delivers cheesy, creamy goodness in one hearty dish. Bacon, green onions, and melted cheddar create an irresistible side that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 large head cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dairy and Cream Components:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray.
- Transform cauliflower florets into tender morsels through steaming or boiling, ensuring thorough draining and moisture removal.
- Craft a velvety sauce by whisking together sour cream, cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until completely smooth and uniform.
- Gently incorporate the cooked cauliflower into the creamy mixture, blending with three-quarters of the cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and half the chopped green onions.
- Elegantly transfer the harmonious blend into the prepared baking dish, creating an even surface.
- Adorn the casserole with the remaining cheese and bacon, creating a tempting top layer.
- Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling crust.
- Complete the dish by scattering the reserved green onions across the surface, adding a fresh, vibrant finish just before serving.
Notes
- Optimize moisture control by thoroughly draining cauliflower to prevent watery casserole texture.
- Try alternative cheese blends like gruyère or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
- Swap bacon for turkey bacon or smoked tempeh to accommodate different dietary preferences and create vegetarian-friendly options.
- Enhance nutrition by adding extra vegetables like spinach or diced bell peppers for increased complexity and nutrient density.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg