Description
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish for those who crave cheesy, savory flavor without the heaviness of carbs. Tender cauliflower florets are tossed with a creamy blend of sour cream, cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon—then baked until bubbly and golden. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner idea, a quick weeknight meal, or a keto-friendly side dish, this easy recipe hits the mark. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or potlucks, it’s a healthy twist on loaded potato casserole with all the richness, minus the starch. It fits beautifully among your favorite easy recipes and food ideas for holidays or daily cooking.
Ingredients
1 large head cauliflower
6 slices bacon
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
4 oz cream cheese
¼ cup heavy cream
1 small onion
2 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley
to taste salt
to taste black pepper
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Steam or microwave the cauliflower florets for 4–5 minutes until just tender. Drain and pat dry.
3. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Set aside to cool, then crumble.
4. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion in a bit of bacon grease until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
5. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream until smooth.
6. Stir in half the shredded cheddar, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
7. Add the cauliflower and half the crumbled bacon to the bowl and gently mix to coat.
8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
9. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and bacon.
10. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
11. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
12. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to help it set and intensify flavor.
For the creamiest result, always use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: keto casserole, low carb dinner, cauliflower recipes, easy side dish, healthy comfort food