This cheesy roasted cauliflower casserole is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender cauliflower florets with a creamy cheese sauce, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. Roasted cauliflower provides a subtle nuttiness, which is complemented by the savory combination of cheddar, Parmesan, and sour cream. The addition of garlic, onion powder, and paprika elevates the flavor profile, while the creamy sauce binds everything together for a deliciously satisfying bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or as a weeknight treat, this casserole will be sure to impress!
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk (or plant-based milk for a dairy-free version)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
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Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. -
Roast the cauliflower:
Place the cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper. Toss the cauliflower to coat evenly, then spread it out in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through for even roasting. -
Prepare the cheese sauce:
While the cauliflower roasts, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using). Stir over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and warmed through. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese to the pan and stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. -
Combine cauliflower and cheese sauce:
Once the cauliflower is roasted, transfer it to a casserole dish. Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the roasted cauliflower, stirring gently to coat the florets in the sauce. -
Bake the casserole:
Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cauliflower, then return the casserole to the oven. Bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot as a side dish, and enjoy!
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
The Origins and Popularity of Cauliflower Casseroles
Cauliflower has long been a versatile vegetable used in a wide variety of cuisines. Known for its mild flavor and dense texture, cauliflower is often used as a substitute for starchy vegetables, making it an excellent choice for low-carb and gluten-free dishes. The popularity of cauliflower casserole grew alongside the rise of comfort foods and cheesy bakes in Western kitchens. The combination of cauliflower’s subtle flavor and the creamy richness of cheese made it a perfect candidate for casseroles. Over time, this dish has evolved, with variations that add seasonings, additional vegetables, or even meat, turning cauliflower into a hearty and satisfying side dish.
Today, cauliflower casserole is beloved for its ability to transform the humble vegetable into something indulgent and comforting. Whether baked with cheese, mixed with creamy sauces, or topped with breadcrumbs, cauliflower casseroles are a hit for family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. The dish’s popularity also grew with the rise of low-carb diets, as cauliflower offers a great alternative to traditional potato or pasta casseroles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesy roasted cauliflower casserole is a dream come true for cheese lovers. The roasted cauliflower adds a depth of flavor and a slight crispiness that pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy sauce. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses creates a rich, flavorful sauce that’s irresistible. It’s an easy recipe to prepare, and the result is a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. The addition of paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor, making it an even more unique twist on traditional cheesy casseroles.
Health Benefits of this Recipe
Cauliflower is low in calories and packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s a great source of folate, which is important for cell function, and it also contains compounds that may support liver detoxification. The cheese and sour cream provide calcium, which is vital for bone health, and the addition of milk (or plant-based milk) helps make the dish rich in protein. While this casserole is indulgent, it’s also a way to enjoy the benefits of cauliflower while indulging in creamy, cheesy comfort.
Serving Suggestions of Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower Casserole
This casserole makes a fantastic side dish to a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork chops, or pair it with a vegetarian main dish like lentil loaf or stuffed peppers. For a lighter option, enjoy it as a standalone meal with a side of fresh greens or a simple tomato salad. This dish also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a grain like quinoa for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Tips
- Make it spicier: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cheese sauce.
- Dairy-free option: Use plant-based cheese and sour cream to make this casserole dairy-free. You can also substitute the milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
- Add bacon: For a smoky, savory twist, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon to the cheese sauce or sprinkling it on top of the casserole.
- Crunchy topping: For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top before baking.
Variations to Try
- Veggie-loaded casserole: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the cheese sauce for extra veggies.
- Herb-infused casserole: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil into the cheese sauce for added aroma and flavor.
- Cauliflower Mac and Cheese: Mix cooked pasta into the roasted cauliflower and cheese sauce for a fun twist on mac and cheese.
Conclusion
Cheesy roasted cauliflower casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that will quickly become a family favorite. With its tender cauliflower, rich cheese sauce, and crispy top, it’s the perfect side dish for any meal. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to be customized to your preferences. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main, this casserole is sure to delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. -
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. -
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. -
How do I make it spicier?
Add more paprika, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.