Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and comforting—but want to keep things a little lighter—this Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s a wholesome spin on the classic loaded potato casserole, featuring tender cauliflower smothered in a rich cheese blend, crispy bacon, and fresh chives. Whether you’re serving it up as a hearty side or a main course with a salad on the side, this casserole is pure joy in every bite—and it’s incredibly easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Comfort Food: All the indulgent flavors of a loaded baked potato casserole, without the heaviness of potatoes.
• Super Simple: Minimal prep and mostly hands-off cooking make this recipe a dream for busy weeknights.
• Big on Flavor: Between the creamy cheese, savory bacon, and fresh herbs, every forkful is packed with goodness.
• Family-Friendly: This one’s a crowd-pleaser—even the cauliflower skeptics will be coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this casserole so irresistible:

• Cauliflower Florets: The star of the show—mild, tender, and the perfect blank canvas for all the cheesy, savory goodness.
• Cream Cheese: Adds richness and a velvety texture that coats every piece of cauliflower.
• Sour Cream: Brings tang and creaminess to balance the cheeses.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a bold, classic cheesy flavor.
• Monterey Jack Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a touch of creaminess to round things out.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These pantry staples bring a savory depth without overpowering the dish.
• Crispy Bacon: A salty, crunchy topping that adds a ton of flavor and texture.
• Fresh Chives: Bright, herby, and a perfect counterbalance to all the richness.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Season to your taste and bring out all the other flavors.

Variations

Looking to mix it up? Try one of these tasty twists:

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for more veggie power.
• Meat Swap: Substitute cooked crumbled sausage or diced ham instead of bacon for a different savory spin.
• Cheese Swap: Mix in mozzarella, Gruyère, or even a touch of blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

Step 1: Steam the Cauliflower

Steam cauliflower florets until fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Then drain thoroughly—excess moisture can make the casserole watery.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to keep things from sticking.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, Monterey Jack, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gently stir in the steamed cauliflower, half the chopped bacon, and most of the chives. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into your prepared dish. Sprinkle the remaining bacon over the top and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with the reserved chives and serve hot. That golden, cheesy top layer is absolutely irresistible.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Drain Well: Make sure your cauliflower is well-drained to avoid excess moisture diluting the creamy sauce.
• Room Temp Cream Cheese: Letting it soften first makes it so much easier to blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on it after 20 minutes—the goal is gooey and golden, not dry.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

How to Serve

This dish is incredibly versatile:

As a Main Course

Serve it with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables for a satisfying, low-carb dinner.

As a Side Dish

It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or even baked fish. It’s also a great addition to holiday or potluck spreads.

As a Brunch Option

Yes—this casserole holds its own next to eggs, toast, and fruit for a savory, protein-packed brunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well and tastes just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions or as a whole casserole. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick fix—just be sure to cover it to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture. Steaming it briefly will help bring back some of that tender-crisp texture.

What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute—it adds the same tangy creaminess with a bit of added protein.

Is this casserole keto-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making it a great fit for ketogenic and low-carb lifestyles.

Can I prep this ahead for a party?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate, and just bake it fresh before serving. It’s a lifesaver for entertaining.

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole brings all the rich, satisfying comfort of a classic loaded potato dish—without the carbs or heaviness. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding a hungry group, this is one recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Try it—you’re going to love it!

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