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Cauliflower Alfredo Bake

Cauliflower Alfredo Bake
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Cauliflower Alfredo Bake is a creamy, cheesy casserole that substitutes tender cauliflower florets for traditional pasta. Featuring a rich homemade Alfredo sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella, this comforting dish is perfect for a wholesome, veggie-packed dinner that’s lighter yet deeply satisfying. Easily customizable and quick to prepare, it’s an excellent way to enjoy a classic flavor with a healthy twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 4 cups cauliflower florets (about 1 medium head)

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups heavy cream or milk
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

  • 1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cauliflower: Start by cutting fresh cauliflower into bite-size florets and steam or boil them until tender but still firm, usually about 5-7 minutes. Drain well to avoid sogginess in your bake.
  2. Make the Alfredo Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking for about a minute, then gradually add cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper for that luscious, creamy Alfredo base.
  3. Combine Cauliflower and Sauce: Gently mix the cooked cauliflower florets into the Alfredo sauce until every piece is coated in cheesy goodness. This ensures balanced flavor distribution throughout the dish.
  4. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the cauliflower and sauce mixture into a greased baking dish. Top evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese to create a bubbly, golden crust as it bakes.
  5. Bake and Serve: Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden on top. Let it cool slightly before digging in to enjoy that creamy Cauliflower Alfredo Bake experience.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the cauliflower: Keep it just tender to avoid mushy texture after baking.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and offers a sharper flavor than pre-grated varieties.
  • Allow the sauce to thicken properly: This prevents a runny bake and ensures every bite is creamy.
  • Opt for fresh garlic: It provides a more vibrant flavor than garlic powder or pre-minced garlic.
  • Let the bake rest before serving: This helps the sauce set and makes for easier portioning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cauliflower Alfredo Bake, creamy cauliflower casserole, low-carb Alfredo, keto friendly, cheesy cauliflower bake, vegetarian casserole, gluten free dinner

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/cauliflower-alfredo-bake/