Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole is a flavorful, cheesy dish that combines the heat of jalapenos with creamy cheese and crispy bacon. It’s a perfect low-carb side or a satisfying vegetarian-friendly main when you skip the bacon. Easy to prepare and sure to please any crowd!

Ingredients

• 3 jalapenos (seeded and diced into 1/4-inch pieces)
• 1 head cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
• 2 tbsp cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I use Tillamook sharp cheddar)
• 4 slices cooked bacon (crumbled into small bits)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C). Spread the cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes. This will soften the cauliflower and enhance its natural flavors.
2. Step 2: Remove the cauliflower from the oven and reduce the temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
3. Step 3: Transfer the roasted cauliflower into a mixing bowl. Add the cream cheese, salt, and pepper, then stir well to coat the cauliflower evenly with the seasoned cream cheese.
4. Step 4: Pour the cauliflower mixture into a baking dish. Evenly scatter the diced jalapenos and crumbled bacon over the top. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese across the surface for a rich, cheesy crust.
5. Step 5: Bake the casserole at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling but not browned. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use smoked paprika or garlic powder in the cauliflower mixture for an extra depth of flavor.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or extra cheese instead.
• If you like it spicier, leave some jalapeno seeds in or add a dash of hot sauce before baking.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth coating.

Storage

Store leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes. Best enjoyed fresh but still delicious when reheated.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly and bake within 24 hours, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter option, though the texture will be slightly different. Soft goat cheese can also add a unique flavor twist.

Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 127 reviews

This Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole is a flavorful and cheesy vegetable bake that combines roasted cauliflower with spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect as a low-carb side dish or a comforting vegetarian-friendly entrée, it features a delicious blend of textures and bold flavors from sharp cheddar and smoky bacon.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 3 jalapenos (seeded and diced into 1/4-inch pieces)
• 1 head cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)

Dairy

• 2 tbsp cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Tillamook sharp cheddar preferred)

Meat

• 4 slices cooked bacon (crumbled into small bits)

Seasonings

• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Roast the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Spread the bite-sized cauliflower florets evenly on a baking sheet and roast them for 15 minutes. This step softens the cauliflower and enhances its natural flavors.
2. Reduce Oven Temperature: After roasting, remove the cauliflower from the oven and lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for the casserole’s final bake.
3. Prepare the Cauliflower Mixture: Transfer the roasted cauliflower into a mixing bowl. Add softened cream cheese, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat the cauliflower evenly with the creamy seasoning.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the cauliflower and cream cheese mixture into a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle diced jalapenos and crumbled cooked bacon over the top. Finish by spreading a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over everything to create a cheesy crust.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Bake until the cheese is bubbly and melted but not browned. Once done, remove the casserole and let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• For a milder dish, reduce the amount of jalapenos or omit the seeds.
• Use thick-cut bacon for extra smoky flavor and a better texture contrast.
• You can prepare the casserole up to the assembly step, then refrigerate it for a few hours before baking.
• Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different cheese twist.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: jalapeno popper cauliflower casserole, low carb casserole, roasted cauliflower bake, cheesy cauliflower dish, jalapeno bacon casserole