Baked cauliflower Recipe
Creamy, indulgent, and irresistibly cheesy, this Cheesy Cauliflower Bake is the ultimate comfort food. Tender cauliflower florets smothered in a velvety cheese sauce and topped with crispy bacon create a side dish that’s both satisfying and gluten-free. Whether for a cozy weeknight meal or a festive gathering, this bake is bound to become a favorite.
Looking for a low-carb alternative to mac and cheese? This dish delivers the same creamy, cheesy goodness without the pasta. It’s rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make!
Key Ingredients That Make This Cheesy Cauliflower Bake Shine
- Cauliflower florets – The star of the dish, tender yet firm cauliflower serves as the perfect base to soak up the cheesy goodness.
- Bacon – Crispy, smoky bacon adds a savory crunch that elevates every bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – Provides a sharp, creamy flavor to the cheese sauce.
- Shredded parmesan cheese – Adds nuttiness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic and onion – Infuse the dish with aromatic richness, balancing the creaminess with a savory kick.
- Almond milk (or milk of choice) – Creates a creamy base for the cheese sauce while keeping it light.
- Tapioca flour (or all-purpose flour) – Ensures a smooth, thickened sauce without lumps.
- Chopped chives – A fresh, herby garnish that complements the richness of the dish.
How to Create Your Perfect Cheesy Cauliflower Bake
- Crisp the bacon: Start by frying bacon to golden perfection in a skillet. Set it aside, reserving the flavorful drippings.
- Prepare the cauliflower: Parboil the florets briefly to ensure they bake up tender but not mushy.
- Make the sauce: Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil and bacon drippings, then whisk in a creamy milk-flour mixture. Stir in cheddar and parmesan until you have a luscious cheese sauce.
- Combine and bake: Toss the cauliflower in the sauce, spread into a baking dish, and top with crispy bacon. Bake until bubbling and golden!
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh chives and serve hot.
Pro Tips for a Creamy, Crispy Finish
To keep the cheese sauce extra smooth, whisk the milk and flour thoroughly before adding it to the skillet. Gradually stir in the cheese for even melting, avoiding clumps. For maximum flavor, use a mix of sharp cheddar and aged parmesan cheeses.
If you prefer a richer bake, swap almond milk for heavy cream. To reduce calories, opt for low-fat cheese and turkey bacon. Add your favorite spices—paprika or a pinch of nutmeg—to customize the flavor profile.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
To store, cool the bake completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid freezing, as the cheese sauce may separate upon thawing.
Perfectly cheesy, satisfyingly crunchy, and packed with comforting flavors, this Cheesy Cauliflower Bake is sure to steal the spotlight on any dinner table!
Baked cauliflower Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower chopped into florets (approximately 5 cups)
- 2 slices of bacon chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- ¼ cup yellow onion diced
- 1 cup almond milk or milk of choice
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or tapioca flour for a gluten-free option
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large, deep skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate, reserving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Add olive oil to the reserved bacon grease in the skillet. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3–5 minutes until the onion becomes tender and translucent.
- In a bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the skillet. Bring it to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, until small bubbles form around the edges.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and salt. Continue whisking until the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the cooked cauliflower, ensuring every floret is evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
- Transfer the cheesy cauliflower mixture to an 8×8-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the cooked bacon over the top.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped chives, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
- This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.