Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

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🧀 Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

 

A creamy, cheesy cauliflower bake with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping—perfect as a comforting side dish or light main course.

Ingredients

For the cauliflower

  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the creamy cheese sauce

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the crispy topping

  • ¾ cup breadcrumbs or panko
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • ¼ cup shredded Parmesan
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the cauliflower:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 4–5 minutes, just until slightly tender. Drain very well.

2. Make the sauce:

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.

3. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue cooking for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.

4. Reduce the heat to low. Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until completely melted and smooth.

5. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

6. Combine:

Place the drained cauliflower in a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over it and gently toss to coat every piece.

7. Make the topping:

Mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and cheddar in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the cauliflower.

8. Bake:

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbling and beautifully golden brown on top.

9. For an extra-crispy top, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.

10. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving

 

🍽️ Serving

 

Serve hot as a side with roasted chicken, steak, grilled fish, or enjoy it on its own.

 

Tip:

Make sure the cauliflower is drained very well. Excess water can make the cheese sauce thin and prevent the casserole from becoming rich and creamy.

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