Loaded Cauliflower Casserole features steamed cauliflower mixed with cream cheese, sour cream, sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, crispy bacon, and fresh chives. This flavorful, low-carb side dish is incredibly easy to make and brings cauliflower to a whole new level!
INGREDIENTS
- 2 lbs cauliflower florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 1½ cups Monterey Jack cheese, finely shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 6 slices crispy bacon, coarsely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh chives, chopped (reserve 1 tablespoon for garnish)
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS
- Steam the Cauliflower: Cook the cauliflower until fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 425°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Gently fold in the cauliflower, half of the bacon, and chives. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble & Bake: Transfer the mixture to the baking dish, top with the remaining bacon, and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with the reserved chives before serving.
NOTES
- Steam or boil the cauliflower until fork-tender for the best texture.
- Grease the casserole dish well for easy cleanup.
- For richer flavor, use full-fat sour cream, cream cheese, and cheese.
- Other great cheese options include fontina, Gruyère, Pepper Jack, and Parmesan.
- Not following a low-carb diet? Add a crispy topping by mixing 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 3 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkling over the top before baking.
- Fresh chives add a burst of flavor, but parsley or green onions also work well.
- Want more protein? Add roasted or grilled chicken or cooked ground beef to make it a full meal.
STORAGE & REHEATING
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven on low or in the microwave at reduced power.
- Freeze: Let cool completely, then double wrap with plastic wrap or use an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
NUTRITION (PER SERVING)
- Calories: 359 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 41mg
- Sodium: 597mg
- Potassium: 308mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 21g
- Vitamin A: 383 IU
- Vitamin C: 37mg
- Calcium: 319mg
- Iron: 1mg
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed Loaded Cauliflower Casserole as a delicious side or a hearty main dish!