There’s nothing quite like the warm, cheesy goodness of a Loaded Cauliflower Casserole straight from the oven. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with crispy bacon, this dish takes comfort food to a whole new level—without the heavy carbs of traditional potato casseroles.

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a healthier alternative to my family's favorite loaded baked potato casserole. To my surprise, even the pickiest eaters were hooked from the first bite! Now, it’s a staple at our dinner table, whether as a side dish or a satisfying main course.
Why You'll Love This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole
Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort dish. This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with smoky bacon flavor. It’s a must-try whether you're eating low-carb or just looking for a delicious new side dish.
First, it’s quick and easy to make. You can have this dish ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
It’s also low-carb and keto-friendly. If you’re watching your carbs but still craving that rich, cheesy goodness of a baked potato, this is the perfect alternative.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak, or enjoy it as a satisfying main course on its own.
And let’s not forget the irresistible cheesy, bacon-packed flavor. The combination of melted cheese, crispy bacon, and creamy cauliflower will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this casserole comes from its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you need to make this dish truly amazing:
- Cauliflower – The star of the show! Fresh or frozen cauliflower florets work well, but steaming them until just fork-tender ensures the best texture.
- Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Gouda for extra cheesiness.
- Bacon – Crispy, crumbled bacon gives this dish its classic loaded flavor. You can cook it fresh or use pre-cooked bacon to save time.
- Cream Cheese – This makes the casserole extra creamy and rich. Soften it before mixing for easy blending.
- Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and keeps the casserole moist and delicious. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a slightly lighter option.
- Green Onions – A fresh, mild onion flavor that adds a pop of color and a slight crunch.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Simple seasonings that enhance the savory depth of the dish.
- Paprika – Adds a touch of smokiness that pairs perfectly with the bacon.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors and bringing everything together.
You’ll also need a large mixing bowl, a baking dish, and a steamer or microwave-safe bowl to prep the cauliflower.
How To Make This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

Making this cheesy, bacon-packed casserole is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Cook the Cauliflower
Start by steaming or boiling the cauliflower florets until they’re just fork-tender, about 5-7 minutes. You want them soft but not mushy. Drain well and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add the cooked cauliflower to the cheese mixture and toss until each piece is well coated. Fold in half of the crumbled bacon and half of the green onions.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining bacon and green onions for a pop of flavor and color. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
This dish is ready in under 40 minutes and delivers all the loaded baked potato flavors without the extra carbs.
Storage Options
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, assemble everything and wrap tightly before storing for up to 3 months. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Reheat: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave single servings in 30-second intervals.
Variations and Substitutions
This casserole is super versatile, so feel free to get creative!
- Make It Spicy – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Use Different Cheeses – Swap cheddar for pepper jack, Gouda, or mozzarella for a new flavor twist.
- Add More Protein – Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked ground beef to turn this into a complete meal.
- Go Dairy-Free – Use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese alternatives to make it lactose-friendly.
- Make It Extra Crunchy – Sprinkle crushed pork rinds or crispy fried onions on top before baking for extra texture.
No matter how you make it, this Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is bound to be a new favorite in your household.
PrintLoaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
This loaded cauliflower casserole is a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional loaded potatoes. Made with tender cauliflower, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and sour cream, it's a creamy and satisfying dish perfect for any meal. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it's a great keto-friendly side dish or main course.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until fork-tender, then drain well.
- Mash the cauliflower slightly and mix with sour cream, cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in half of the cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese, bacon, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, blend the cauliflower mixture before baking.
- Add cooked chicken or ground beef for a heartier dish.
- Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480 MG
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