Craving a dish that’s packed with flavor and a little kick? Look no further than this Jalapeño Cheddar Cauliflower Bake. This recipe combines the creaminess of cheese with the heat of jalapeños, creating a delightful comfort food that’s perfect as a side dish or a main event on your table.
Imagine a casserole that’s not only delicious but also loaded with healthy ingredients. Cauliflower takes center stage, making this dish a low-carb option without skimping on taste. The cheesy topping melts perfectly over the tender cauliflower, while the jalapeños add a spicy twist that’ll keep you coming back for more.
A Perfectly Spicy and Cheesy Cauliflower Bake
This Jalapeño Cheddar Cauliflower Bake combines tender cauliflower florets with a rich and creamy cheese sauce.
With a crunchy layer of cheddar on top, this dish delivers a tantalizing hint of jalapeño heat.
It’s a delightful blend of flavors that appeals to both cheese aficionados and spice lovers alike.
Ingredients That Shine
The ingredients for this bake are simple yet effective.
A large head of cauliflower takes center stage, creating a low-carb option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Cream cheese, sour cream, and sharp cheddar come together to create that coveted creamy texture, while jalapeños provide the perfect kick.
Preparation Tips
Baking to Perfection
Serving Suggestions
Storage and Reheating
A Perfectly Spicy and Cheesy Cauliflower Bake
This Jalapeño Cheddar Cauliflower Bake features tender cauliflower florets enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy layer of cheddar and a hint of jalapeño heat. The result is a dish that’s both savory and satisfying, sure to please both cheese lovers and spice enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeds removed and finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for breadcrumb topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth.
- Fold in the cooked cauliflower and chopped jalapeños until well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- If using, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the cheese layer for added crunch.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 8g