Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

By Lily | Last modified on Feb 28, 2026

Featured in: Side Dishes

I absolutely love dishes that are both comforting and keto-friendly, and this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole hits all the right notes. It’s creamy, cheesy, and so satisfying – it’s hard to believe it’s low-carb! This recipe has become a favorite in my house, perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

The blend of sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan cheeses combined with velvety cream and garlic makes this casserole an irresistible side or main dish. Its golden, bubbly top and tender cauliflower florets guarantee a cozy meal that everyone enjoys.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and creamy yet keto-friendly for low-carb lifestyles.
Combines comforting cheese flavors with nutritious cauliflower.
Easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.

Ingredients

Cauliflower Florets: One large head, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
Heavy Cream: One cup adds richness and a smooth, creamy texture that binds the casserole.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Two cups provide sharp, melty flavor that complements the cauliflower perfectly.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Half a cup adds nutty, salty depth, sprinkled on top and inside.
Cream Cheese: Quarter cup, softened to blend seamlessly for extra creaminess.
Garlic: Two cloves minced to infuse aromatic, savory notes enhancing the overall taste.
Onion Powder: One teaspoon, giving subtle sweetness and complexity without large chunks.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, balancing all flavors.
Paprika: Half teaspoon (optional) for mild smokiness and a beautiful golden color.
Fresh Parsley: A garnish to add a pop of fresh color and mild herbal brightness.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature while you prepare the casserole. Preheating creates a consistent baking environment which helps melt the cheese evenly and brown the top beautifully.
Cook the Cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are just tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step softens the cauliflower without making it mushy, preserving a pleasant texture in the finished dish. Drain thoroughly to avoid excess water diluting the creamy sauce.
Mix the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Stir the mixture until completely smooth and creamy, creating a flavorful sauce that will coat the cauliflower beautifully.
Add Cheeses to the Sauce: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture. This combination ensures the sauce is rich and cheesy with layered flavors while also adding body to the casserole.
Combine Cauliflower and Cheese Mixture: Add the tender cauliflower to the cheese sauce and gently mix until every floret is well coated. This guarantees a consistent cheesy flavor throughout the dish and helps bind all the ingredients together for great texture.
Transfer to Baking Dish and Top: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the cauliflower mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top to develop a golden, savory crust once baked.
Bake Until Bubbling and Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is beautifully golden brown. Baking melds all the flavors, creates a luscious texture, and gives the dish its inviting appearance.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and fresh flavor before serving warm to your family or guests.

You Must Know

Make sure to drain the cooked cauliflower well; excess moisture can make the casserole watery.
You can customize this recipe by adding cooked bacon or chopped herbs for extra flavor.
For a dairy-free version, substitute cheeses and cream with suitable vegan alternatives.

Storage Tips

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with grilled meats for a hearty meal or can be served as a filling side with crisp garden salads. It also works great for meal prep, providing nourishing comfort food throughout the week.

Professional Tips

Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor impact; mild cheddar will result in a subtler taste.
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to help it set and improve slicing.
Experiment with different cheese blends such as Gruyere or mozzarella for varied textures.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?: Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Bake just before serving for best results.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?: Absolutely! Cauliflower is low in carbs and combined with high-fat cheeses and cream, this dish fits perfectly into keto guidelines.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?: You may use frozen cauliflower but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess water in the casserole.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?: Full-fat coconut milk or evaporated milk can be alternatives, but these will slightly change the flavor and texture.
How do I make this casserole dairy-free?: Use plant-based cream and cheese substitutes specifically made for cooking to maintain the creamy texture and flavor.
Can this be gluten-free?: Yes, this recipe contains no gluten ingredients and is naturally gluten-free.
What other vegetables can I add?: Cauliflower pairs well with broccoli or spinach—add them steamed to enhance nutrition and variety.