If you’re looking for a delicious way to enjoy cauliflower on your keto diet, this cheesy casserole recipe will become your new favorite dish.
The combination of roasted cauliflower and creamy cheese sauce creates a comfort food that tastes so good, you won’t believe it’s low in carbs.
The secret to making this casserole extra special lies in roasting the cauliflower first. This simple step brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetable and gives it a slightly crispy texture that works perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce.
Plus, the addition of Dijon mustard and a touch of cayenne adds just the right amount of kick.
You can serve it as a main dish for a vegetarian keto meal, or as a side dish alongside your favorite protein. It also reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknight dinners.
👍 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect Texture: Unlike many cauliflower casseroles that can become mushy, this one maintains a great texture because we roast the cauliflower first. The florets stay firm yet tender, and the cheese creates a golden, slightly crispy top.
Low Carb Heaven: Each serving contains very few net carbs, making it perfect for strict keto dieters. You get all the comfort of a traditional casserole without worrying about breaking your carb limit.
Family Approved: Non keto family members actually enjoy this dish because it tastes like a regular cheesy casserole. The familiar flavors make it a great way to serve vegetables to picky eaters.
Excellent Leftovers: This casserole tastes fantastic the next day. The flavors actually develop more overnight, making your lunch just as delicious as dinner.
✨ Recipe Ingredients
- 1 cup Cheddar (shredded, divided) – I recommend this one (amazon)
- 1 Cauliflower Head (cut into small florets)
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream – I used this one (amazon)
- 2 tablespoons Whole Milk
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
- 1 teaspoon Minced Garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
👨🍳 How To Make
Follow this easy recipe:
Step 1
Start by preheating the oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2
Place the cauliflower florets on the baking sheet. Spray them with cooking oil (I use olive oil), and season with black pepper and salt.
Step 3
Roast in the oven for about 12-15 minutes until crisp.
Step 4
Mix the milk, sour cream, 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, garlic, Dijon mustard, and cayenne in a large bowl. Add the cauliflower to this mixture and mix to combine.
Step 5
Transfer the whole mixture to a baking dish (I used a 1.5-quart one). Top with the remaining cheddar and bake for 10-12 minutes.
Step 6
Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes. I recommend topping with crispy bacon bits. Enjoy!
💡Tips
1. Don’t Skip the Roasting
The roasting step might seem like extra work, but it’s absolutely important for the best texture and flavor.
Roasting removes excess moisture from the cauliflower, which prevents your casserole from becoming watery. It also adds a slight nutty flavor that makes the dish taste much better than just boiling or steaming.
Make sure to spread the florets in a single layer on the baking sheet – if they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast.
You’ll know they’re done when the edges start to brown slightly and you can easily pierce them with a fork, but they still hold their shape.
2. Make It Ahead
If you’re planning to make this ahead of time, you can roast the cauliflower and prepare the cheese mixture separately up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine and bake when ready to serve.
You’ll Love These Recipes Too
Check out these recipes too:
FAQ
1. What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream – make sure to use full fat Greek yogurt.
Cream cheese that’s been softened and thinned with a little heavy cream also works well.
If using cream cheese, let it come to room temperature and beat it until smooth before mixing with other ingredients.
2. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives great flavor, you can use any cheese that melts well.
Try a mixture of cheddar and mozzarella for extra stretchy cheese pulls, or add some Gruyere or Gouda for deeper flavor.
Keto Cauliflower Casserole
Print RecipeIngredients
Instructions
- Start by preheating the oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the cauliflower florets on the baking sheet. Spray them with cooking oil (I use olive oil), and season with black pepper and salt.
- Roast in the oven for about 12-15 minutes until crisp.
- Mix the milk, sour cream, 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, garlic, Dijon mustard, and cayenne in a large bowl. Add the cauliflower to this mixture and mix to combine.
- Transfer the whole mixture to a baking dish (I used a 1.5-quart one). Top with the remaining cheddar and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes. I recommend topping with crispy bacon bits. Enjoy!