Description
This rich and satisfying Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole transforms humble cauliflower into a creamy, indulgent side dish that rivals any potato casserole. With layers of melted cheddar, tangy cream cheese, and a golden-brown top, this comforting dish makes cauliflower irresistible even to the pickiest eaters. Perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners when you want something special.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook 5-7 minutes until tender but still firm. Drain thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cream cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Gently fold the drained cauliflower into the cheese mixture, coating evenly.
- Transfer to prepared baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan if using.
- Bake 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra richness, substitute heavy cream for milk. Don’t overcook the cauliflower in step 2 as it will continue cooking in the oven. This casserole can be assembled ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking – just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: cauliflower, casserole, cheesy, creamy, comfort food, vegetables