Healthy Cauliflower Casserole

Nov 20, 2024

A Comfort Food Classic with a Healthy Twist: Healthy Cauliflower Casserole


Looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is nutritious? Meet the Healthy Cauliflower Casserole - a creamy, cheesy, bacon-topped masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a cozy side dish, this casserole delivers big on flavor without weighing you down.


Packed with roasted cauliflower, a luscious cheese blend, and a crispy bacon finish, it’s a dish that satisfies everyone—from veggie enthusiasts to picky eaters. Serve it alongside your favorite mains or enjoy it as a stand-alone star—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time! 🥦✨

Ingredients:

(Recipe makes 6-8 servings)

  1.  High-Quality EVOO for Finishing Drizzle (Any of these will do nicely!)
  2. 2 Medium-to-Large Heads of Organic Cauliflower (3-4 lbs in total, all cut into bite-sized pieces)
  3. 1 Pack of Bacon (6-8 Slices, 1/2 in thick)
  4. 4 Scallions (Sliced thinly)
  5. 2 Cups Shredded Cheddar (Medium Cheddar would be the safest bet)
  6. 6 Oz Cream Cheese (Bring to room temp before using)
  7. 2/3 Cup Sour Cream
  8. Freshly Ground Pepper
  9. Kosher Salt
  10. 1/4 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional, for finishing garnish)

Shopping done? Let's get cooking.

Instructions:

🔥 Act 1 - Warm Things Up

Set your oven to 425°F to preheat—it’s the perfect temperature for getting everything golden and delicious.

🥓 Step 2: Sizzle the Bacon

In a medium nonstick skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat, stirring every so often, until it’s brown and crispy. This should take about 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Don’t toss all that flavorful bacon fat! Set aside 2 tablespoons for later use.

🥦 Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower

Place the cauliflower florets in a 3-quart casserole dish. Drizzle with the reserved 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings, then season with 3/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Toss to coat the florets evenly, and roast them in the preheated oven until they’re tender and lightly browned—this will take about 30 minutes.

🧀 Step 4: Get Cheesy

While the cauliflower is roasting, combine the cream cheese and 1 cup of Cheddar in a medium bowl, mixing well. When the cauliflower is ready, spoon dollops of the cheese mixture over the florets. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Cheddar on top, then return the dish to the oven. Bake until the cauliflower is tender when pierced with a knife, and the cheese is melted and bubbling, about 5 to 7 minutes.

🍴 Step 5: Top It Off

Finish your casserole with flair! Spread dollops of sour cream evenly over the top, then sprinkle on the scallions and the crispy bacon bits you saved. Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!

Enjoy!!