Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole is a flavorful twist on a classic appetizer, combining roasted cauliflower with spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s a delicious, comforting dish perfect as a side or a light main course.
Ingredients
- 1 cauliflower head (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 jalapenos (de-seeded and chopped)
- 4 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C). Spread the cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes to soften it and enhance its natural flavor.
- 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.
- Step 3: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a mixing bowl. Add the cream cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the cauliflower is evenly coated with the seasoned cream cheese.
- Step 4: Pour the cauliflower mixture into a baking dish. Evenly distribute the chopped jalapenos and crumbled bacon over the top, then sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese generously to cover the surface.
- 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
- For extra heat, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture.
- Substitute bacon with cooked sausage or omit it for a vegetarian option.
- Try using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier cheese crust.
Storage
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through to maintain a crispy top, or microwave gently for a quicker option.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to step 4 and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes, cauliflower is low in carbohydrates, making this casserole a great option for low-carb or keto diets, especially with the protein from bacon and cheese.
PrintTasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
This Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish featuring roasted cauliflower mixed with cream cheese, spicy jalapenos, crispy bacon, and topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a flavorful, comforting casserole perfect as a side or low-carb main.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Cauliflower Base
- 1 cauliflower head (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 3 jalapenos (de-seeded and chopped)
- 4 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Roast Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Spread the cauliflower pieces evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes to soften and enhance their natural flavor.
- Reduce Oven Temperature: After roasting, remove the cauliflower from the oven and lower the temperature to 375°F (190°C) in preparation for baking the casserole.
- Mix Cauliflower with Cream Cheese and Seasoning: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a mixing bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the cauliflower evenly with the cream cheese mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the cauliflower mixture into a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the chopped jalapenos and crumbled bacon on top. Finish by layering the shredded cheddar cheese evenly to cover the surface.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), until the cheese is melted and bubbling but not browned. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- De-seed jalapenos carefully to control the heat level of the casserole.
- You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit it to make the dish vegetarian (remove bacon if vegetarian).
- For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for best melting quality and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Keywords: jalapeno popper, cauliflower casserole, cheesy casserole, roasted cauliflower, low carb, bacon, spicy, cheese bake
