Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

A total knockout cauliflower casserole which is low carb and keto friendly. This is so easy to make and the most delicious comfort food. It could serve as a great side dish or main dish. I used the Steam Fresh frozen cauliflower florets however fresh cauliflower florets would be ideal. The flavors in this recipe remind you of a loaded baked potato, so even if you are not on that ketogenic diet flow, this recipe will definitely hit the spot. A total knockout cauliflower casserole which is low carb and keto friendly. This is so easy to make and the most delicious comfort food. It could serve as a great side dish or main dish. I used the Steam Fresh frozen cauliflower florets however fresh cauliflower florets would be ideal. The flavors in this recipe remind you of a loaded baked potato, so even if you are not on that ketogenic diet flow, this recipe will definitely hit the spot.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into small florets OR 1 bag of frozen cauliflower florets
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2/3 cup sour cream
• 1.5 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup green cilantro or parsley (optional)
• Salt as needed
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika or chili powder
• 1 finely diced jalapeño (optional)

Directions:

1. Prepare a small casserole dish or tray with non-stick spray.
2. In a steamer insert over boiling water, steam the cauliflower florets for 5 minutes, until crisp-tender. Remove from heat, and drain to remove excess water.
3. For frozen cauliflower, place the frozen cauliflower in the air fryer at 350F for 10 mins or until they are crisp tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the sour cream and cream cheese, until smooth. Stir in the cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, jalapeño, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the cauliflower florets and celery to the bowl and mix with the cheese mixture.
5. Pour the cauliflower mixture into the casserole dish or tray. Top with the cheddar cheese mix.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes at 350F in the oven or the air fryer until the cheese melts and the sauce is bubbly.

Tips:

• You can use broccoli as a substitute for cauliflower or use both broccoli and cauliflower. Just ensure to increase the amount of cream cheese and cheddar cheese mixture.
• If you consume onion and garlic, add 1/4 tsp garlic powder to this recipe to enhance the flavors
• If you do not have air fryer, you can pan roast the cauliflower after steaming. It will give it nice chard flavor.
• When baking in an air fryer, keep an eye towards the end as the florets can start burning or overcooking in the mixture.
• Whichever method you use to cook the cauliflower, ensure to remove the excess water. This will keep the mixture creamy.

Cheers, and Enjoy!