📋 Ingredients

  • Cauliflower: 1 large head of fresh cauliflower (about 2 lbs / 900g), cut into bite-sized florets

  • Bacon: 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped (divided)

  • Cheese:

    • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)

    • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

    • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • Dairy & Base:

    • 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature

    • ½ cup sour cream

    • ¼ cup heavy whipping cream

  • Aromatics & Seasonings:

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

    • ½ teaspoon onion powder

    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

  • Garnish: 2 tablespoons fresh green onions or chives, thinly sliced                                       

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Lightly grease an 8x8-inch or 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Steam the Cauliflower

  1. Place the cauliflower florets in a large steamer basket set over boiling water (or in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water).

  2. Steam for 5–7 minutes until fork-tender, but not overly soft or mushy.

  3. Drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (this prevents a watery casserole).

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, heavy whipping cream, minced garlic, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk until smooth.

  2. Stir in 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, the mozzarella cheese, the Parmesan cheese, and half of the chopped bacon.

  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Add the steamed cauliflower florets to the bowl with the cheese mixture.

  2. Gently fold everything together until all the florets are coated evenly in the creamy cheese sauce.

  3. Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 5: Bake and Garnish

  1. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and the remaining chopped bacon evenly over the top.

  2. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly around the edges, and the top cheese is melted and golden brown.

  3. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

  4. Garnish with sliced green onions or chives and serve hot!                                                                 

💡 Keto Serving Suggestions

  • Main Dish: Pair alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken thighs, or pork chops.

  • Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover with foil, and store in the fridge. Bake directly from the fridge (adding 5–10 minutes to the bake time).

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