Keto Cheddar and Bacon Cauliflower Casserole (Easy One-Pan Comfort Food)

Keto Cheddar and Bacon Cauliflower Casserole (Easy One-Pan Comfort Food)

This ultra-creamy, cheesy cauliflower casserole is pure keto comfort food that even carb-lovers will devour.

KEY INFO

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: 385 per serving
• Fat: 32g
• Protein: 18g
• Net Carbs: 6g
• Difficulty: Easy
• Diet Tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• 9×13 inch casserole dish
• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Colander
• Measuring cups/spoons
• Alternative: Cast iron skillet can replace casserole dish

INGREDIENTS

• 1 large cauliflower head (about 2 lbs/900g), cut into florets
• 8 bacon strips (8oz/225g), diced
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1½ cups (150g) shredded cheddar, divided
• ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: ¼ cup chopped chives for garnish

METHOD

1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
   2. Cook bacon in a large pan until crispy (about 8 minutes). Remove and set aside
   3. Boil cauliflower in salted water until fork-tender (8-10 minutes)
      Look for florets that pierce easily but aren’t mushy
   4. Drain cauliflower thoroughly in colander
      This step is crucial to prevent a watery casserole

1. Mix cream cheese, 1 cup cheddar, sour cream, and seasonings in a large bowl
2. Fold in cauliflower and half the bacon
3. Transfer to casserole dish, top with remaining cheese and bacon
4. Bake 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden
   Cheese should be melted and lightly browned

CRUCIAL TIPS

• Let cauliflower drain completely to avoid soggy results
• Bring cream cheese to room temperature for smooth mixing
• Don’t overcook cauliflower – it continues cooking in the oven
• Season generously – cauliflower needs it

STORAGE & VARIATIONS

Storage: Keeps 3-4 days refrigerated
Reheating: Best in oven at 325°F for 15 minutes

Variations:

• Add diced jalapeños for heat
• Mix in shredded chicken for a complete meal
• Swap cheddar for gruyere or gouda
• Top with crushed pork rinds for extra crunch

Common Mistakes:

• Skipping the thorough draining step
• Under-seasoning
• Using pre-shredded cheese (fresh-grated melts better)

This recipe is perfect for meal prep and scales easily for larger gatherings. Just maintain the same ratios and adjust pan size accordingly.