Description

A creamy, cheesy Cauliflower Alfredo Bake that is quick to prepare and perfect for cozy nights. This comforting, vegetable-packed dish features tender cauliflower florets coated in a rich Alfredo sauce and topped with bubbling, golden mozzarella cheese. Ideal as a veggie-forward main or side, it’s easy to customize with proteins or herbs and suitable for low-carb diets.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

1 medium head fresh cauliflower, broken into bite-sized florets

Alfredo Sauce

3 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Topping

1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower: Break the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Lightly steam or boil them for 3-5 minutes until just tender but still firm. Drain well to avoid excess moisture and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Cauliflower and Sauce: Gently toss the cooked cauliflower florets into the Alfredo sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated with the creamy sauce.
Assemble and Bake: Transfer the cauliflower and sauce mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Notes

Don’t overcook the cauliflower; keep it slightly firm to avoid mushiness after baking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better meltability and flavor.
If your Alfredo sauce is too thick before baking, thin it with a splash of milk or cream.
Try mixing mozzarella with provolone or fontina for extra cheesy depth.
For a crispier cheese topping, broil the bake for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg