Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole with Garlic Bread Crust

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole with Garlic Bread Crust is a luxurious yet healthy side dish made with cauliflower, cheese, and topped with a garlic bread crust. Perfect side for any occasion! 

As the days get shorter and the temperatures dip, it’s the perfect time to cozy up with a hearty, comforting side dish that’s easy to make and satisfies the whole family. 

Enter our Cheese Cauliflower Casserole with Garlic Bread Crust—a dish that combines creamy, cheesy cauliflower with a golden, garlicky breadcrumb topping that’s sure to make your kitchen smell amazing!

This casserole is more than just a side dish. Thanks to the nutritious cauliflower base and rich cheese sauce, it can be a main event for dinner or a standout addition to any potluck or holiday spread. If you’re looking for a few more cauliflower options definitely check out these – Cacio e Pepe Cauliflower Gnocchi, Butter Cauliflower with Wild Rice,or Moroccan Cauliflower Bake.  

Now, the garlic bread crust, which adds a delightful crunch and robust flavor, takes this dish to the next level. Imagine digging into a creamy, cheesy casserole only to encounter a crispy layer of garlic-buttered bread on top—it’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: A few simple ingredients and minimal prep make this casserole a breeze to put together.
• Packed with Flavor: A savory garlic bread crust complements the rich, cheesy cauliflower underneath.
• Vegetable-Forward: A fantastic way to get more vegetables into your meals, making it a lighter option without sacrificing that cheesy comfort factor.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side, a main course, or even a cozy addition to holiday gatherings.

Whether you’re a fan of creamy casseroles or looking to spice up your side-dish game, this Cheese Cauliflower Casserole with Garlic Bread Crust will quickly become a household favorite. Grab your baking dish and get ready for cheesy, garlicky goodness that’s as satisfying as it is comforting!

Ingredients Used to Make Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole with Garlic Bread Crust

What’s great about this side dish is the simplicity of ingredients. A few pantry staples make for a decadent side ready in minutes: 

• Cauliflower florets
• Unsalted butter
• Whole milk
• Fontina or Gruyere 
• Garlic
• Parsley
• French bread 

How to Make Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole with Garlic Bread Crust

The ingredient list is simple and so are the directions. Follow the below steps to ensure casserole success: 

• Preheat an oven to 425 degrees. 
• In a large frying pan add about ¼-inch of water and bring to a boil. Add in about ½ tsp kosher salt followed by the cauliflower florets. Cover the pan and steam until tender, about 5 to 8 minutes. Drain water and set cauliflower aside. 
• Next, in another large skillet the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir until a roux forms. Gradually pour in the milk and whisk until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper. 
• For the crust, combine the butter, garlic, and parsley in a large bowl. Season with kosher salt and pepper. Add in the bread and stir until well combined. 
• Place the steamed cauliflower into the prepared baking dish and pour cheese sauce over. Gently toss to coat. Cook for about 15 minutes and then reduce oven temperature to 400 degrees. Top the cauliflower with the garlic bread crust and cook for another 15 minutes or until the bread is golden. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. 

Variations of Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole with Garlic Bread Crust

Here are some tasty variations to make your Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole with Garlic Bread Crust uniquely delicious each time:

Broccoli-Cauliflower Combo

• Additions: Substitute half the cauliflower with broccoli florets.
• Flavor Twist: This adds color and a mix of textures, plus broccoli pairs beautifully with cheddar.
• Top Tip: Sprinkle crushed red pepper for a little heat!

Italian Style with Herb-Crusted Topping

• Additions: Add Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley to the cheese sauce.
• Flavor Twist: Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for a lasagna-like vibe.
• Top Tip: Use an Italian-style bread for the crust to bring out those Mediterranean flavors.

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Casserole

• Additions: Fold in diced jalapeños and some cream cheese for a spicy kick.
• Flavor Twist: Use a mix of cheddar and pepper jack cheese.
• Top Tip: Add sliced pickled jalapeños on top of the garlic bread crust for extra heat and tang.

Mushroom and Thyme Cauliflower Casserole

• Additions: Sauté mushrooms and a bit of fresh thyme and stir into the cauliflower mix.
• Flavor Twist: Use Gruyère and Swiss cheese for an earthy, nutty flavor.
• Top Tip: Caramelized onions also pair well in this variation for added richness.

Proper Storing 

To properly store your Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole with Garlic Bread Crust and maintain its flavor and texture, follow these tips:

Refrigerating Leftovers

• Cool Down First: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Cover and Store: Place the casserole in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
• Shelf Life: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing for Longer Storage

• Portion It Out: For easy reheating, divide the casserole into individual servings.
• Use Freezer-Safe Containers: Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
• Label and Date: Label each container with the date to keep track.
• Freeze: The casserole can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.