Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

 

Of course! Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is the ultimate comfort food side dish. It’s creamy, decadent, and satisfying—often called a “low-carb mac and cheese” or “funeral potatoes” style dish.

Here is a rich and foolproof recipe that will be a hit at any dinner table.

Ultra-Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

This recipe creates a from-scratch cheese sauce for the best flavor and texture, avoiding a soupy casserole.

Yields: 6-8 servings as a side
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Cauliflower & Topping:

· 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2-3 lbs), cut into bite-sized florets
· 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for topping)
· 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
· 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
· 1 tablespoon melted butter
· 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

For the Cheese Sauce:

· 3 tablespoons butter
· 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
· 2 cups whole milk, warmed slightly
· 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
· 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
· 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
· 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· 2 cups shredded cheese (a mix is best: sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Fontina)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Cauliflower:
   · Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch or similar 3-quart 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 still firm (al dente). You can also steam them until tender.
   · Crucial Step: Drain the cauliflower very well and then transfer it to a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture. This prevents a watery casserole.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce (Roux-Based):
   · In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter.
   · Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden. This is your “roux.”
   · Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 3-5 minutes.
   · Remove from heat. Whisk in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
   · Stir in the 2 cups of shredded cheese mix until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Combine:
   · Place the well-drained cauliflower in the prepared baking dish.
   · Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower and gently stir to coat every piece evenly.
4. Add Topping:
   · In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
   · Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cauliflower.
   · Sprinkle the buttery panko mixture over the shredded cheese.
5. Bake:
   · Bake, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly around the edges.
   · For an extra crispy top, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes (watch closely!).
6. Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

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Recipe Notes & Customizations

· Cheese Choices: The blend of cheese is key! Gruyère adds a nutty flavor, Monterey Jack is great for meltiness, and extra-sharp cheddar gives a strong flavor punch.
· Make it Lighter:
· Use 2% milk and reduce-fat cheese.
· For a keto/very low-carb version, replace the flour with a tablespoon of cream cheese and use heavy cream instead of milk. Omit the panko topping or use crushed pork rinds/almond flour.
· Add-Ins for a Heartier Dish:
· Bacon: Mix in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon with the cauliflower.
· Ham: Add 1-2 cups of diced cooked ham to make it a main course.
· Green Veggies: Stir in a cup of thawed frozen peas or broccoli florets.
· Spice: Add a diced jalapeño to the cheese sauce.
· Shortcut Version: Instead of making a roux, you can mix the drained cauliflower with one can of condensed cream of chicken or mushroom soup, 1 cup of sour cream, and 2 cups of shredded cheese. Top and bake as directed. It’s quicker but will have a different texture.
· Avoid Sogginess: The most important step is thoroughly drying the cooked cauliflower. Don’t skip it!

This casserole is the perfect cozy side dish for a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner. Enjoy