Queso Cauliflower Bake

If you’re craving creamy, cheesy comfort food without the heaviness of pasta or potatoes, this Queso Cauliflower Bake is about to become your new favorite dish. Tender cauliflower florets are roasted and then smothered in a luscious, mildly spicy queso-style cheese sauce, baked to bubbly perfection. It’s low-carb, crave-worthy, and perfect as a side or vegetarian main.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy & Creamy – Just like your favorite queso dip in casserole form.
Low-Carb Comfort – Rich in flavor but lighter than traditional casseroles.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and under an hour from start to finish.
Perfect Side or Main – Serve with grilled meats or enjoy on its own.
Customizable Heat – Add as much or as little spice as you like.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cauliflower Bake:

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

For the Queso Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Diced green onions
• Hot sauce drizzle

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Saucepan
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, until tender and golden at the edges.

Step 2: Make the Queso Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until smooth.
Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and pepper jack cheeses until melted and creamy.
Mix in drained tomatoes with chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Remove from heat once thick and smooth.

Step 3: Combine & Bake
Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, gently toss roasted cauliflower with the queso sauce.
Transfer to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes.
Top with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or any optional toppings you like.
Serve hot as a side dish or meatless main.

Tips for the Best Queso Cauliflower Bake
Roast First – Roasting gives cauliflower better texture and flavor than steaming.
Use Sharp Cheddar – It brings bold cheesy flavor that stands out.
Drain Tomatoes – Avoid a watery sauce by removing excess liquid.
Make It Spicier – Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
Reheat with a Splash of Milk – Keeps the sauce creamy when reheating.

Serving Suggestions
As a Side – Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or BBQ.
Low-Carb Main – Serve with a green salad or avocado.
Taco Night Upgrade – Spoon it into tortillas or taco bowls.
Buffet Favorite – Great addition to potlucks or holiday spreads.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Store in freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw before reheating.

Reheating:

• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
• Microwave: Reheat in short intervals with a splash of milk for creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry before roasting to avoid sogginess.

2. Is this gluten-free?
Use cornstarch instead of flour in the queso to make it gluten-free.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives. Results will vary slightly in creaminess.

4. What other cheeses can I use?
Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella are all great options for melting.

5. Can I prep it ahead?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate before baking. Add 5–10 extra minutes to baking time if coming straight from the fridge.

Final Thoughts
This Queso Cauliflower Bake is everything you want in a cheesy casserole—rich, creamy, just the right amount of heat, and surprisingly wholesome. It’s a comforting dish you can feel good about eating and serving to family or guests. Whether you’re cutting carbs or just looking to switch up your side dish routine, this one’s a keeper.

Try it tonight and share your cheesy creation online—I’d love to see how you top your bake!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: Tex-Mex Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 11g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Sodium: 420mg

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