When you want a side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—but still feels like home-cooked comfort—this cheesy cauliflower casserole fits the bill. It’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for holiday dinners or family gatherings. Tender cauliflower florets baked in a rich cheese sauce with a crispy topping—it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast.
What’s great about this casserole is how simple it is to make but still so satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just wish to add some veggies into your meal with a cheesy twist, this recipe is a winner. Here’s everything you need to know, plus tips and tasty variations to make it your own.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
- Uses simple ingredients, many you likely have on hand
- Creamy, cheesy, and comforting without being heavy
- Great low-carb alternative to traditional potato casseroles
- Perfect for make-ahead and reheats beautifully
- Kid-friendly and great for picky eaters
- Works well as a side or a vegetarian main
- Easy to customize with different cheeses or toppings
- Gluten-free if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs
- A fantastic way to get extra veggies on the table
Ingredients for Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole (Serves 6)
- 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 pounds), cut into bite-size florets
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
How to Make Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole: Step-by-Step
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Cauliflower
Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until just tender but still firm, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (roux). Slowly whisk in warm milk, a little at a time, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Cheese and Seasonings
Remove sauce from heat. Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until cheese melts and sauce is creamy.
4. Combine Cauliflower and Cheese Sauce
Place drained cauliflower in a large mixing bowl. Pour cheese sauce over it and gently toss to coat well.
5. Assemble Casserole
Transfer the cheesy cauliflower mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top for a crunchy crust.
6. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and sauce is bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions and Party Ideas
- Serve alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or pork for a comforting meal.
- Add a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete dinner.
- Perfect for potlucks and holiday dinners—you can bake it ahead and reheat.
- Try mini versions in individual ramekins for parties or meal prep.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture.
- Different Cheeses: Substitute cheddar with Gruyere, mozzarella, or Fontina for a new flavor.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon bits, ham, or shredded chicken to make it a heartier meal.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the cheese sauce for aromatic depth.
Pro Tips for Success
- Avoid overcooking cauliflower to keep florets slightly firm and avoid mushy texture.
- Warm the milk before adding it to the roux; it helps prevent lumps in the sauce.
- Use freshly grated cheese; pre-shredded often contains additives that prevent melting.
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to set the sauce.
- For extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end (watch carefully).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
A: Yes, use plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and vegan cheeses designed for melting.
Q: Can I freeze leftover casserole?
A: Definitely, store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.
Q: What’s a good substitute for breadcrumbs?
A: Crushed pork rinds, gluten-free panko, or crushed nuts work well for crunch.
Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Is this recipe low-carb?
A: Yes, cauliflower is a great low-carb vegetable, and with gluten-free breadcrumbs, it fits many diets.
Q: Can I add fresh garlic?
A: Yes, sauté minced garlic and add to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
Q: How do I get a creamier sauce?
A: Add a splash of cream or use full-fat milk.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
A: Dried herbs work, or you can skip the garnish.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust cooking time as needed.
Here is the nutrition information estimate for the Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole recipe (per serving, assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
Cheesy cauliflower casserole is a crowd-pleasing, comforting side that combines cheesy richness with healthy cauliflower. It’s simple, versatile, and perfect for many occasions. Whether for a family dinner or a festive holiday table, you’ll find this casserole easy to make and delicious to eat. Give it a try—you might just make it a kitchen staple.