Description
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy and cheesy side dish featuring tender roasted cauliflower mixed with a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, ranch dressing, and two types of shredded cheese. Topped with crispy bacon and fresh green onions, it’s a comforting casserole perfect for family dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 head of cauliflower (cut into bite sized pieces, about 10 cups)
- 1 green onion (thinly sliced)
Dairy
- 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
Condiments & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon oil (such as olive or vegetable oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing mix
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
Proteins
- â…“ cup cooked crumbled bacon
Instructions
- Roast the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400℉. Spread the cauliflower pieces evenly on a large baking pan. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss the cauliflower gently to coat with oil and seasoning. Roast for 15 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender but still crisp.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: While the cauliflower roasts, combine the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses in a small bowl. In a medium mixing bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, dry ranch dressing mix, minced garlic, and one cup of the mixed cheeses until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spray a 2-quart casserole dish lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a large bowl and gently fold in the cream cheese mixture until the cauliflower is evenly coated. Spoon the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top, then evenly distribute the cooked crumbled bacon and thinly sliced green onion on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Return the casserole dish to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately while warm and cheesy.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture.
- You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit it to make the casserole vegetarian.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to easily blend into the mixture.
- If you prefer a milder taste, reduce or omit the garlic cloves.
