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Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

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Dish

The Medium Shallow Dish

Ingredients

  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Swiss cheese or smoked Gouda
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 cups (200g) frozen cauliflower florets
  • 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons crispy onions
  • Chopped parsley, for serving (optional)

Preparation

  1. Combine the cream, flour, cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and stir to mix completely. Add the butter and frozen cauliflower, and cover with the lid (knob lifted).
  2. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the cream is hot and the cheese is melted. Stir well, breaking down the cauliflower slightly, until the cauliflower, cream, and cheese form a creamy texture.
  3. Preheat the oven to 500°F. Top the casserole with breadcrumbs, parmesan, and crispy onions. Transfer to the oven uncovered and bake for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Allow for casserole to rest for at least 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Suggestions

  • Add a curry twist: Season the cauliflower with curry powder for an aromatic, deeply flavored dish with warm, earthy notes.
  • Spice it up: Add cayenne or chili flakes for a spicy kick that balances the creamy, cheesy sauce.
  • Top with crunchy almonds: Sprinkle slivered almonds on top for extra crunch and a nutty, toasty flavor.
  • Mix in cooked mushrooms: Add cooked mushrooms to the casserole for extra umami flavor and a heartier, more filling dish.
  • Discover more cauliflower recipes by exploring our collection here!

Recipe Notes

  • Freeze the casserole into the Anytime Freezer Trays, and reheat as needed.
  • Swap Italian breadcrumbs for panko, if desired.
  • You can use a mixture of broccoli and cauliflower for extra flavor and color.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

All You Need to Know About Making Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole in the Microwave

What is Cheese Cauliflower Casserole?

Cheese Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish featuring tender cauliflower florets coated in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Topped with crispy onions, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan, it’s a hearty, flavorful side dish or main course that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Can I make Cheese Cauliflower Casserole in the microwave?

Yes, you can make Cheese Cauliflower Casserole in the microwave using an Anyday dish. The microwave method ensures the cauliflower is tender and evenly coated in creamy, cheesy goodness. After cooking, you can broil it in the oven to get that golden, crispy topping.

Do I need to thaw frozen cauliflower before cooking?

No need to thaw! Frozen cauliflower cooks perfectly in the microwave. The Anyday dish traps steam, cooking the cauliflower evenly while helping it absorb the creamy cheese sauce. This saves time and effort compared to thawing beforehand.

Can I use fresh cauliflower instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh cauliflower! However, fresh cauliflower may require a few extra minutes of cook time compared to frozen. Be sure to check for tenderness as you cook. If you prefer using fresh, you may also want to add 1-2 tablespoons of water to help create steam in the Anyday dish.

How do I store leftover Cheese Cauliflower Casserole?

Let the casserole cool completely, then cover your Anyday dish with the lid and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave until warm, stirring halfway through for even heating.

What’s the best way to reheat Cheese Cauliflower Casserole?

To reheat from the fridge, place the casserole in an Anyday dish, cover with the lid, and microwave on full power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Why do I need to preheat the oven for this recipe?

The oven step is optional but recommended to create a crispy, golden-brown topping. While the microwave cooks the cauliflower and cheese sauce perfectly, the oven broil step ensures that the breadcrumbs and crispy onions become golden and crunchy.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! To make a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the cheese sauce. Be sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them entirely.

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