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Loaded cauliflower bake is super EASY and packed with lots of yummy flavors. It’s the perfect low carb side dish you have been waiting for. You can serve it to go compliment any of your meals, or it’s so tasty you can eat it on its own. Either way, you are going to love every bite.
I don’t always eat a low carb diet, but there are times when I feel like cutting back a little. So, I started experimenting with some low carb recipes to see if I could get them to taste like what I am accustomed to! Guess what, while it’s not perfect; this potato substitute is as close as I could get to the real thing and it’s great.
You will find that even your kids will eat this recipe and won’t even have a clue that it’s full of healthy food! If you have ever struggled to get them to eat cauliflower, that will be a thing of the past. I mean it has bacon and cheese, so how can they not love it?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This loaded cauliflower bake is a delightful twist on classic comfort food, offering all the rich flavors you crave without the carbs. It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy bacon—what’s not to love? Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side or a main dish.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Casserole dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 small heads of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 2 cups milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large pot, bring the cauliflower florets in salted water to a boil for 3 minutes. Drain completely, and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add in the garlic, and cook for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in the flour and cook for a few minutes, stirring often.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, and cook to thicken.
- Add in the cream cheese, and stir until melted completely.
- Remove the thickened mixture from the heat, and add in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, as well as salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the drained cauliflower in a greased casserole dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over top of the cauliflower, and toss to coat.
- Add ¾ of the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions, stirring to mix well.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top of the cauliflower.
- Top the mixture with the remaining crumbled bacon and chopped green onions.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and slightly browned on the top.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cauliflower is well-drained to prevent the bake from becoming too watery.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melt and flavor.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to add other toppings like jalapeños for a spicy kick or swap out cheddar for mozzarella for a different flavor profile. You can also add some cooked chicken for a more filling dish.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 18g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bake and refrigerate it before baking. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
This loaded cauliflower bake is a delicious way to enjoy a comforting dish without the guilt. It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!
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