Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole is a flavorful twist on the classic jalapeno popper snack. It combines tender roasted cauliflower with creamy cheese, spicy jalapenos, and crispy bacon for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.

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 bring out its natural flavors.
2. Step 2: Remove the cauliflower from the oven and reduce the temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for the final baking step.
3. Step 3: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a mixing bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the cauliflower is evenly coated.
4. Step 4: Pour the cauliflower mixture into a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the chopped jalapenos and crumbled bacon over it, then top with the grated cheddar cheese to cover the surface.
5. Step 5: Bake the casserole in the oven at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra spice, leave some jalapeno seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a creamier, spicier topping.
• To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon and add toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.
• Roast the cauliflower on parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and the bacon crispy.

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 the assembly step and refrigerate it. Bake it fresh just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Fresh cauliflower is best for roasting and texture, but you can use thawed frozen cauliflower. Be sure to drain any excess moisture before mixing to avoid a watery casserole.

Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 137 reviews

This Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole is a deliciously cheesy and spicy baked dish featuring roasted cauliflower mixed with cream cheese, jalapenos, crispy bacon, and grated cheddar. Roasting the cauliflower enhances its natural flavor, while the combination of creamy, spicy, and smoky ingredients creates a comforting casserole perfect for a flavorful side or a satisfying low-carb main.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables & Cheese

• 1 cauliflower head (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese
• 3 jalapenos (de-seeded and chopped)
• 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese

Meat & Seasoning

• 4 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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 for 15 minutes. This initial bake will help to soften the cauliflower and bring out its natural flavors.
2. Reduce Oven Temperature: Once the cauliflower is done roasting, remove it from the oven and decrease the temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This will prepare the oven for the final baking step.
3. Prepare the Cauliflower Mixture: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a mixing bowl. Add cream cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly to coat the cauliflower well with the seasoned cream cheese.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the cauliflower mixture into a baking dish. Evenly distribute the chopped jalapenos and crumbled bacon over the cauliflower. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top, covering the entire surface for a delicious cheesy crust.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). The cheese should be bubbling and perfectly melted on top without browning. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• De-seeding the jalapenos reduces the heat level; leave some seeds if you prefer spicier casserole.
• For a vegetarian variation, omit bacon or replace with a plant-based bacon alternative.
• Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
• Ensure cauliflower pieces are bite-sized for even roasting and mixing.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

Keywords: jalapeno popper, cauliflower casserole, roasted cauliflower, cheesy casserole, spicy casserole, bacon, jalapeno, comfort food, low-carb casserole