Looking for a low-carb, healthy alternative to mashed potatoes that’s just as comforting and satisfying? This Loaded Mashed Cauliflower Casserole is the answer! With creamy mashed cauliflower, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh vegetables, this dish is the ultimate side for any meal. It’s the perfect way to enjoy all the comforting flavors of a traditional casserole, without the carbs!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Loaded Mashed Cauliflower Casserole gives you all the comfort of mashed potatoes with a healthy twist. The cauliflower mash is smooth and creamy, while the toppings of melted cheddar cheese, scallions, and fresh veggies add a burst of flavor and texture. This dish is low in carbs, making it a great option for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a main course, it’s an easy and flavorful way to get more veggies into your diet without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

1/2 cauliflower (approx. 1 pound, 450g)
2 tablespoons vegetable broth
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons butter
3 garlic cloves, grated
1 celery stalk, diced
1 tomato, seeded and diced
2 tablespoons chopped scallion
1/3 cup grated cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Divide the cauliflower into florets, rinse and drain them. Add to a microwave-safe bowl. Pour in the vegetable broth and cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
Microwave the cauliflower for 5-8 minutes, until tender. Discard any excess water and let the cauliflower cool for a few minutes.
Transfer the cauliflower to a food processor or blender and pulse until it reaches a cauliflower rice texture.
Add the butter, sour cream, and grated garlic, and process until the mixture is smooth, resembling mashed potatoes.
Transfer the cauliflower mixture to a bowl, then stir in the diced tomato, celery, and chopped scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with grated cheddar cheese and additional scallions.
Place the baking dish under the broiler for a few minutes, just until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and golden.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Loaded Mashed Cauliflower Casserole!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Use Different Cheese: Swap the cheddar cheese for other types of cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or Parmesan for a unique flavor.
Add More Veggies: Stir in additional vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the casserole a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mashed cauliflower mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, transfer it to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil to melt the cheese.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before broiling. Once prepared, cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake from frozen, covered with foil, at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Then top with cheese and broil for a few minutes to melt the cheese.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Use dairy-free cheese for the topping to keep it completely dairy-free.

How do I make the mashed cauliflower creamier?

If the cauliflower mash is too thick, you can add a little more vegetable broth or a splash of milk (or non-dairy milk) to achieve your desired consistency.

Can I add meat to this casserole?

Yes, adding ground turkey, chicken, or beef to the casserole would make it even heartier. Just cook the meat beforehand and mix it in with the cauliflower mash before baking.

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used in place of fresh cauliflower. Just be sure to thaw and drain the cauliflower thoroughly before using it.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown. If you’re baking from a chilled or frozen state, ensure it is heated all the way through.

Can I use an immersion blender for the cauliflower mash?

Yes, an immersion blender can also work well for mashing the cauliflower. Just blend until smooth and creamy.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply replace the sour cream with a plant-based alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut yogurt, and use vegan cheese on top.

How can I adjust the texture of the mash?

If the mash turns out too grainy, keep processing it in the food processor until you achieve a smoother consistency. You can also add a bit more cream or butter for a richer texture.

Conclusion

Loaded Mashed Cauliflower Casserole is the ultimate low-carb comfort food. With creamy cauliflower mashed to perfection, topped with melted cheese and fresh veggies, it’s the perfect side dish for anyone looking for a healthier take on mashed potatoes. This dish is packed with flavor, easy to make, and a great way to enjoy a vegetable-packed meal that’s just as satisfying as the classic! Whether you’re following a low-carb, gluten-free, or vegetarian diet, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.