Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Recipe
Cheesy Baked Cauliflower is the perfect comfort food that’s both creamy and cheesy, and the best part? It’s low-carb and keto-friendly! This indulgent dish can easily be a crowd-pleaser while keeping your carb count low. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
1 large head of cauliflower (or about 4-5 cups of cauliflower florets)
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or any cheese you like, such as mozzarella or a cheese blend)
½ cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup crispy bacon bits (optional, for added flavor)
Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prep the Cauliflower:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the cauliflower into florets. Steam or boil them for 5-7 minutes until just tender but still firm (avoid overcooking). Drain well and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until it becomes a smooth sauce.
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
Once the sauce is smooth, add the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted, and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
Combine the Cauliflower and Sauce:
Gently fold the steamed cauliflower florets into the cheesy sauce, making sure they’re coated well.
Pour the cheesy cauliflower mixture into a greased 9×9 inch baking dish.
Top with Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
If desired, sprinkle the crispy bacon bits over the top for added flavor and crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving for a pop of color.
Serve hot as a side dish, and enjoy!
Tips & Variations:
Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just bake until hot and bubbly.
Flavor Boost: Add mustard powder or paprika to the cheese sauce for extra flavor depth.
Spicy Kick: For a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce.
Other Cheese Options: Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Gruyère, or a combination of your favorites for varied flavors.
Keto & Low-Carb Friendly: This dish is perfect for a keto diet or a low-carb lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the recipe to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Q: Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?
A: Yes, if you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute it with sour cream or a full-fat Greek yogurt to maintain the creamy texture.
Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce to give it an extra kick!
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Q: Can I freeze this cheesy baked cauliflower?
A: Yes! You can freeze this dish before baking. Just prepare it, cover it well with foil, and store it in the freezer. When ready to eat, bake it from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 40-45 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Baked Cauliflower is a flavorful, low-carb alternative to traditional cheesy side dishes. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying. Perfect as a side dish for your main meals, or even as a standalone snack. Whether you enjoy it with crispy bacon bits or a little kick of spice, it’s a dish everyone can enjoy!