Loaded Cauliflower Casserole
Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful low-carb casserole featuring tender cauliflower, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon bits topped with parmesan and green onions. Perfect as a wholesome, comforting dinner that is easily customizable and family-approved.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head fresh cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
- 1/2 cup bacon bits (cooked and crispy)
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Steam or boil gently until just tender but not mushy to ensure they hold their shape and soak up the creamy sauce.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir this mixture into the warm cooked cauliflower so the cheese begins to melt and evenly coats the florets.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the cheesy cauliflower mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits, green onions (white parts for baking), and parmesan cheese over the top to create the signature loaded finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly, golden, and slightly crisped.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the cauliflower; slightly undercooked florets hold up best during baking and prevent mushiness.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more robust flavor instead of mild cheddar.
- Add cooked bacon bits on top right before baking to keep them crispy and flavorful.
- Customize toppings with chives or fresh herbs for added freshness.
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving to help it set and slice neatly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: cauliflower casserole, low carb casserole, cheesy cauliflower, loaded casserole, keto cauliflower casserole, vegetable casserole, comfort food