Imagine a creamy, cheesy, bacon-loaded dish that delivers all the comfort of traditional mashed potatoes but with a healthier, lighter twist. This Mashed Cauliflower Casserole is about to revolutionize your dinner table, proving that healthy eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor. Whether you're following a low-carb diet, looking to sneak more vegetables into your meals, or simply craving a delicious side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, this recipe is your ultimate culinary solution.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash the cauliflower head thoroughly and chop into small, uniform florets to ensure even cooking.
- Place cauliflower florets in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook for 8-10 minutes until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain the cauliflower in a colander and return to the pot. Allow excess moisture to steam off for 2-3 minutes.
- Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash the cauliflower until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Add cream cheese to the mashed cauliflower and mix until well incorporated and creamy.
- Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions.
- Season with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.
- Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Ensure thorough draining of cauliflower to prevent a watery casserole
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing
- For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking
- Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crunch
- For a lighter version, substitute half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt
- Make sure to season generously - cauliflower absorbs flavors well
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 218kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 11g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 45mg
