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 makes a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish or snack.

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

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 to soften and enhance its flavor.
2. Step 2: Remove the cauliflower from the oven and lower the temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for the next baking stage.
3. Step 3: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a mixing bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the cauliflower evenly with the seasoned cream cheese.
4. Step 4: Pour the cauliflower mixture into a baking dish. Top with chopped jalapenos and crumbled bacon, then sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the entire surface.
5. Step 5: Bake the assembled casserole at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream with the cream cheese before mixing with the cauliflower.
• Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapenos, or swap for milder peppers if preferred.
• Try using pepper jack or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon and add extra cheese or some chopped nuts for crunch.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until warmed through to maintain the crispy cheese topping. Microwave reheating is quicker but may soften the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used. Thaw and drain well before roasting to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

How spicy is this casserole?

The heat level depends on the jalapenos you use. Removing the seeds significantly reduces the spiciness, making it mild to medium heat. Leave some seeds in for more kick.

Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 129 reviews

This Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole is a flavorful, low-carb side dish that combines roasted cauliflower with creamy cheese, spicy jalapenos, and crispy bacon. Perfect as a comforting, cheesy casserole with a kick, it balances heat and indulgence in every bite.

• Author: Victoria
• 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

Cauliflower

• 1 cauliflower head, cut into bite-sized pieces

Cheese & Cream

• 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese
• 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Additional Toppings

• 3 jalapenos, de-seeded and chopped
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Roast the Cauliflower: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C). Spread the cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet and roast it for 15 minutes. This process softens the cauliflower and enhances its natural flavors.
2. Reduce Oven Temperature: Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven and lower the temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
3. Prepare the Cauliflower Mixture: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a mixing bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the cauliflower is evenly coated with the creamy, seasoned mixture.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the cauliflower mixture into a baking dish. Distribute the chopped jalapenos and crumbled bacon evenly over the top. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese generously to cover the surface, creating a cheesy crust when baked.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish into the oven and bake for 15 minutes at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) until the cheese is melted and golden, and the casserole is heated through.

Notes

• For less heat, remove all seeds from jalapenos or reduce the number used.
• Crisp bacon ahead of time and store it to save prep time.
• Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and add extra cheese or sautéed mushrooms.

Keywords: jalapeno popper, cauliflower casserole, cheesy casserole, low carb side dish, spicy cauliflower, bacon casserole