Cauliflower Casserole

This cauliflower casserole is cooked cauliflower florets tossed in a homemade cheese sauce, then mixed with bacon and green onions and baked to golden brown perfection. A hearty side dish that pairs well with chicken, pork and beef.

Course Side

Cuisine American

Prep Time 20

Total Time 1

Servings

Calories 336kcal

Author Sara Welch

Ingredients

6 cups cauliflower florets cooked
3 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon garlic minced
3 tablespoons all purpose flour
2 cups milk I use whole milk
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided use
8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled, plus more for garnish
1/4 cup green onions sliced, plus more for garnish
cooking spray

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Coat a 3 quart baking dish with cooking spray.
Melt the butter over medium heat in a large pan. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually add in the milk, whisking constantly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then bring the milk mixture to a simmer.
Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until thickened. Stir in the parmesan cheese and 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese.
Add the cauliflower to the cheese sauce and toss to coat. Stir in the bacon and green onions.
Pour the cauliflower mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with remaining cup of cheddar cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is bubbly and cheese is melted. Let stand for 5 minutes, then serve, garnished with additional bacon and green onions as desired.

Video

Notes

I recommend shredding your own cheese for this dish. The pre-shredded cheese in bags at the grocery store is often coated in preservatives and anti caking agents and does not melt smoothly.
Cook your cauliflower until it is just tender before starting this recipe. It will continue to cook in the baking dish.
I have made this casserole with both fresh and frozen cauliflower, and either works just fine. If you're using frozen cauliflower, be sure to thaw it and remove any excess water before proceeding with the recipe.

Nutrition