Cheesy Cauliflower Bake with Bacon (classic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Cheesy Cauliflower Bake with Bacon
Cheesy Cauliflower Bake with Bacon is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. This dish combines tender cauliflower florets with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all topped off with crispy bacon bits. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re indulging, but with the added benefit of vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, this bake is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Historically, cauliflower has been a staple in various cuisines for centuries, often celebrated for its versatility and health benefits. In the United States, the rise of cheesy bakes can be traced back to the mid-20th century, when convenience foods became popular. This recipe embraces that tradition while adding a touch of modern flair with the addition of bacon, because let’s be honest—everything is better with bacon!
To prepare this dish, you’ll need to start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). As the oven warms, you can prepare the cauliflower and cheese sauce. The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella creates a luscious texture that clings to the cauliflower, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. And let’s not forget the crispy bacon on top, which adds a savory crunch that perfectly complements the creamy base.
This Cheesy Cauliflower Bake with Bacon is not just a side dish; it can easily stand alone as a main course for a light meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread, and you have a satisfying dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cauliflower florets
- 8 slices bacon
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the cauliflower until tender while allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 4 cups of cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook 8 slices of bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels, then crumble it into small pieces.
- In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 0.25 cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. This cheesy sauce is the heart of the dish!
- Season the cheese sauce with 1 teaspoon of salt, 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper, 0.5 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 0.5 teaspoon of paprika for added flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cauliflower and cheese sauce, ensuring the florets are well coated. This step is crucial for maximum cheesy goodness.
- Transfer the cauliflower mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. This size is perfect for ensuring even cooking and browning.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top of the cauliflower mixture. The bacon will add a delightful crunch and savory flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the dish set a bit, making it easier to serve.
- Serve warm as a side dish or a main course. Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Enjoy your Cheesy Cauliflower Bake with Bacon, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Carbs g: 12
- Protein g: 20
- Fat g: 25
- Sugar g: 3
