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Easy Loaded Keto Cauliflower Casserole 🥘

Cast Iron Keto
by
Updated:
3 Comments
5 from 2 votes

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Say hello to our Loaded Keto Cauliflower Casserole recipe that perfectly aligns with your keto lifestyle. Enjoy layers of tender cauliflower, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and fresh chives baked until bubbly and delicious. Each creamy bite will make you wonder how something so decadent can be part of a keto diet! It's the ultimate comfort food and low-carb side dish! So let's dive in and make some magic happen in the kitchen!

Keto Cauliflower Casserole in a cast iron skillet on a grey background with a wooden spoon and green onions to the side.
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Preparation and cooking overview

Making this Keto Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is a breeze! Steam the cauliflower until tender, and cook the bacon to crispy perfection. Create a delightful mixture by combining cheese and spices, then spread it generously over the cauliflower. Slide the dish into the oven and bake until it's golden brown and bubbly. In just 40 minutes, this casserole dish will be ready to enjoy!

Chef's note

For a fun and creative twist on this cauliflower casserole, try experimenting with shredded cheeses like Gouda or Pepper Jack to add flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture. You can also make this recipe vegan by adding vegan alternatives! 

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 8 Servings

For more inspiration check out our Casseroles recipe.

🥘 Ingredients for this loaded keto cauliflower casserole recipe

Let's make some cheesy cauliflower casserole with the following simple ingredients!

  • 6 slices of bacon, chopped
  • 1 pound cauliflower florets, steamed
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 4 ounces sour cream
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 8 ounces freshly shredded mild cheddar, divided
  • 6 ounces freshly shredded Monterey Jack, divided
  • 5 green onions, chopped

Ingredients substitutions

  • Cream cheese: Replace cream cheese with full-fat Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, or cottage cheese.
  • Sour cream: Use coconut milk yogurt or unsweetened almond milk yogurt instead of sour cream for a dairy-free option.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: For a different cheese twist, opt for shredded mozzarella, Gouda, or Swiss cheese.
  • Shredded Monterey Jack: Use Pepper Jack cheese for a spicier kick as an alternative to Monterey Jack.
  • Green onions: If you don't have green onions, use chopped chives or finely diced red onions for a similar flavor.

Additional ingredients

Enhance the flavor profile of this recipe by adding these optional ingredients!

  • Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado adds creaminess and a touch of richness to this keto side dish.
  • Sautéed mushrooms: Introduce a rich and earthy flavor by incorporating sautéed mushrooms into the cheese and spice mixture.
  • Diced bell peppers: Toss some diced bell peppers, such as red, yellow, or orange, for additional color and crunch.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes: Diced sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of umami sweetness to this casserole dish.
  • Sliced jalapenos: For those who enjoy some heat, add sliced jalapenos for a spicy kick.

Cooking tools required

To make this keto cauliflower cheese casserole recipe, you will need the following tools:

Tool substitutes list

  • Cast iron skillet: Use a baking dish if you don't have a cast iron skillet.

How to make Loaded Keto Cauliflower Casserole: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Steaming
  • Frying
  • Baking

Preparation steps

  1. Gather and measure all the ingredients required for the recipe.
  2. Prepare the cauliflower florets by removing the cores.
  3. Shred the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese.
  4. Clean and chop the green onions.
  5. Steam the cauliflower until it becomes tender.
  6. Soften the cream cheese.

Cooking instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat a cast-iron skillet (10.25" or larger) over medium heat.
  3. Cook the bacon pieces until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Drain fat from skillet.
  4. Mix the cream cheese, sour cream, dry seasonings, half the bacon, half the cheese, half the green onions, and the salt in a large bowl. Mix well, add the steamed cauliflower, and mix again until combined.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the skillet and top the remaining cheese and bacon.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes, then broil on high for 3-5 minutes to brown the cheese on top. Remove from the oven and garnish with remaining green onions. Serve immediately.
Keto Cauliflower Casserole closeup with a spoon scooping into the casserole to remove a serving.

Chef's pro tip

Overcooking cauliflower makes it mushy. To make perfect cauliflower, steam it until it's soft but still has a little bite. Keep a close eye on it and poke it with a fork to see when it's ready. After steaming, drain the florets in a colander or just pat them dry with a paper towel. That way, you'll get the texture just the way you want it for your dish.

What to serve with loaded keto cauliflower casserole?

This cauliflower casserole is a versatile keto meal that effortlessly complements a wide range of foods. Try serving it alongside these delicious items:

  • Roasted Chicken: The savory notes of roasted chicken complement the creamy casserole, adding a protein punch to your meal.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a delightful texture contrast to the delicious casserole.
  • Zucchini noodles: Light and tender zucchini noodles provide a low-carb alternative that soaks up the cheesy goodness.
  • Steamed asparagus: Steamed asparagus balances the richness with its earthy taste.
  • Greens salad: A refreshing greens salad provides a vibrant and tangy side to the richness of the casserole. You can try our Keto Kale Salad or Keto Arugula with this dish.
  • Grilled Salmon: Grilled salmon's buttery texture and subtle flavors harmonize well, creating a wholesome combination.

How to make it healthier?

  • Select leaner cuts of bacon to reduce saturated fat.
  • Substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream for the full-fat versions to reduce calorie and fat content while maintaining a creamy texture.
  • Go for high-quality and organic cheese to improve the nutritional profile and taste of the dish.

Time-saving tips

  • Buy pre-cut cauliflower: If available, purchase pre-cut cauliflower florets to save time on chopping and preparation.
  • Use pre-cooked bacon: Utilize pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits instead of cooking bacon from scratch, as it eliminates the need for frying and reduces cooking time.
  • Use food processor: Use a food processor to quickly shred the cheese or a microwave-safe steamer for steaming the cauliflower.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Steam the cauliflower: Steam the cauliflower and put it on a paper towel. Let it sit on the paper towel so that excess water is drained. Then store it in the refrigerator to use later.
  • Pre-cook the bacon: Cook the bacon in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it's time to make the low-carb cauliflower casserole, you can crumble the pre-cooked bacon without cooking it from scratch.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

  • Refrigerator: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking to ensure food safety. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Freezer: After baking and cooling the casserole, ensure it is tightly wrapped or placed in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating best practices

  • Microwave: Place a casserole serving in a microwave-safe dish, and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Note: Avoid reheating in a slow cooker or crockpot, as it can overcook the dish.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

And there you have it—a Loaded Keto Cauliflower Casserole that's sure to please the whole family! This dish is a delightful twist on classic comfort food, made keto-friendly without sacrificing flavor. With its creamy texture and savory toppings, it's a perfect side or main course for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. Serve it up at your next gathering, or enjoy it as a satisfying weeknight dinner. Once you try it, this casserole might just become a new favorite in your keto kitchen! Enjoy!

Looking for more keto recipes for casseroles? We have you covered! Click the images below for the other recipes.

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Keto Fajita Casserole Skillet

📖 Recipe

Loaded Keto Cauliflower Casserole

This Loaded Keto Cauliflower Casserole is packed with cheese, bacon, and green onions for one great low carb side dish.
5 from 2 votes
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cauliflower casserole, keto casserole, loaded keto cauliflower casserole, low carb casserole recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 401kcal

Ingredients

  • 6 slices of bacon chopped
  • 1 pound cauliflower florets steamed
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 4 ounces sour cream
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 8 ounces freshly shredded mild cheddar divided
  • 6 ounces freshly shredded Monterey Jack divided
  • 5 green onions chopped
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Heat a cast-iron skillet (10.25" or larger) over medium heat.
  • Cook the bacon pieces until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Drain fat from skillet.
  • Mix the cream cheese, sour cream, dry seasonings, half the bacon, half the cheese, half the green onions, and the salt in a large bowl. Mix well, add the steamed cauliflower, and mix again until combined.
  • Transfer the mixture to the skillet and top the remaining cheese and bacon.
  • Bake for 15 minutes, then broil on high for 3-5 minutes to brown the cheese on top. Remove from the oven and garnish with remaining green onions. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Loaded Keto Cauliflower Casserole
Amount Per Serving
Calories 401 Calories from Fat 315
% Daily Value*
Fat 35g54%
Saturated Fat 19g119%
Trans Fat 1g
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g
Monounsaturated Fat 11g
Cholesterol 98mg33%
Sodium 734mg32%
Potassium 288mg8%
Carbohydrates 5g2%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 3g3%
Protein 17g34%
Vitamin A 998IU20%
Vitamin C 22mg27%
Calcium 423mg42%
Iron 1mg6%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Allison says

    5 stars
    Love Keto cast iron recipes. This one is delicious!

    Reply

    • Cast Iron Keto says

      Thank you 😊

      Reply

  2. Ramya says

    will be making this soon can i use mushrooms / vegan cream cheese / coconut cream and vegan cheeses as am a vegan finally i got your newsletter for my gmail and this recipe perfect for my after office meals will dm you if i make this and let you know how it goes Thanks Ramya

    Reply
5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

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