Recipe for Cauliflower Casserole by Pioneer Woman

The pioneer woman's culinary tales are rife with rich, hearty, and soul-warming dishes. And this cauliflower casserole recipe perfectly embodies that essence. I remember first attempting a vegetable casserole; I opted for broccoli. But when I switched to cauliflower, the dish's entire profile elevated. Its neutral taste became a canvas, soaking in all the flavors and textures of the ingredients that I paired with.

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Substitutions
• Variations
• Equipment
• Storage
• Pro Tips
• My Cauliflower Casserole Inspired by Pioneer Woman
• Comments

Ingredients

Bowl 1

• Cauliflower — 1 large head, cut into florets
• Olive oil — 2 tbsp.
• Salt — 1 tsp.
• Black pepper — ½ tsp.

Bowl 2

• Heavy cream — 1 cup
• Garlic — 3 cloves, minced
• Sharp cheddar cheese — 1 cup, shredded
• Parmesan cheese — ½ cup, grated
• Fresh thyme — 1 tsp., chopped
• Fresh rosemary — 1 tsp., chopped
• Red chili flakes — ½ tsp. (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl (Bowl 1), toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This step ensures every floret gets an even coat, which I found crucial for that golden, roasted flavor.
3. Transfer the seasoned cauliflower to a baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
4. In another bowl (Bowl 2), whisk together the heavy cream, minced garlic, half of the cheddar and parmesan cheese, thyme, rosemary, and red chili flakes if using. I once skipped the chili flakes, and while the dish was creamy and delicious, the mild heat does add a special touch.
5. Pour this creamy mixture over the cauliflower florets into the baking dish. Ensure each floret is nicely coated.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and parmesan cheese on top. It will give the casserole a delightful golden crust, a game-changer for me when I first tried it.
7. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the top has a beautiful golden brown hue.
8. Once baked to perfection, please remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This patience, though challenging, ensures that the flavors meld together wonderfully.

Substitutions

• Heavy cream — If you're aiming for a lighter version, a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt can replace heavy cream. I've tried it, and the result is a lighter but still creamy casserole.
• Cheddar cheese — Feel adventurous with Monterey Jack or Gouda. The smoky undertones of Gouda, in particular, bring a unique twist.

Variations

• Meaty twist — For meat lovers, adding cooked, crumbled bacon or pancetta can enhance the dish's heartiness. I tried it during a winter dinner, and it was an instant hit!
• Spice it up — Add a chopped jalapeño or green chili for an extra kick. The heat, combined with the creaminess, creates a beautiful contrast.

Equipment

• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Two mixing bowls
• Baking dish
• Oven

Storage

After cooling, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can refrigerate this casserole for up to 3 days. I often find the flavors even more pronounced the next day, making for a delightful reheated meal.

Pro Tips

• The creamy layer — Ensuring the cauliflower is well-coated with the cream mixture is essential. It ensures every bite is rich and flavorful.

• The golden hue — Aim for a golden-brown top. It looks appetizing and adds a slight crunch to complement the creamy texture.