Delicious Keto Cauliflower Casserole: A Comforting Low-Carb Delight
Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that has quickly become a favorite in my household: Keto Cauliflower Casserole. If you're looking for a comforting, creamy dish that's low in carbs and full of flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This casserole is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a cozy night in. With a blend of savory cheeses, tender cauliflower, and a few special ingredients, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your keto lifestyle.
Why I Love This Recipe
One of the things I love most about this casserole is its versatility. It's not only keto-friendly but also gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. It's also a great way to sneak in some vegetables! Cauliflower is such a chameleon in the culinary world; it takes on the flavors of whatever you pair it with, making it a perfect base for this creamy dish.
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this delicious Keto Cauliflower Casserole!
Ingredients
To whip up this delightful casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2-3 pounds), cut into florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for roasting)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives (chopped)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re fork-tender but not mushy. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and chicken or vegetable broth. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In the bowl with the cheese mixture, fold in the cooked cauliflower and shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure every piece of cauliflower is coated in that delicious cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Transfer the cauliflower mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle the top with additional cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan for that golden, bubbly finish. If you’d like, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the top for extra richness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
After the oven has been prepared, place the casserole inside and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and brown. There will be a wonderful scent filling your kitchen!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Macro Breakdown per Serving
This recipe yields about 8 servings. Here’s the macro breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 3g
Additional Tips
Make it Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference. Gouda or mozzarella would work wonderfully too!
Add Some Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or bacon bits to the mixture.
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
Store Leftovers: This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Before serving, reheat it in the microwave or oven.
I hope you enjoy this Keto Cauliflower Casserole as much as I do! It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings, a cozy dinner, or meal prepping for the week. Trust me, even non-keto eaters will love it!
If you're looking for more delicious keto-friendly recipes to try, here are five suggestions:
- Keto Zucchini Noodles: A light and refreshing take on pasta, topped with your favorite sauce.
- Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: Another comforting dish packed with nutrients.
- Keto Chicken Alfredo: Creamy and decadent, this dish is sure to impress.
- Eggplant Lasagna: A low-carb twist on a classic Italian favorite.
- Keto Chocolate Mug Cake: A quick and easy dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.