Are you ready to indulge in a comfort food classic with a healthy twist? Say goodbye to traditional cheeseburgers and hello to the delightful Bacon Cheeseburger Cauliflower Casserole! This mouthwatering dish combines all the rich flavors of a cheeseburger—savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese—while swapping out the carbs for nutritious cauliflower. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this recipe is not just delicious but also easy to whip up in just 45 minutes! Your taste buds will thank you, and your waistline will too. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Wash the cauliflower head and chop it into bite-sized florets. Place the chopped cauliflower in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks, ensuring even browning.
- Add chopped onions to the beef and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and slightly softened.
- Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Pour the cooked beef and onion mixture over the chopped cauliflower in the mixing bowl. Gently toss to combine and distribute the meat evenly.
- Transfer the cauliflower and beef mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, ensuring even coverage.
- Crumble the pre-cooked bacon and distribute it uniformly across the cheese layer.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and the flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional chopped green onions or fresh parsley for extra flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cauliflower: Select a fresh head of cauliflower that is firm and free of dark spots. This will ensure your casserole has the best texture and flavor.
- Cook Beef Thoroughly: Make sure to cook the ground beef until it's fully browned to enhance the flavor of your casserole. Breaking it into small crumbles will help it mix better with the cauliflower.
- Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up! Try adding mozzarella for a stretchier texture or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Don’t Skip the Bacon: For maximum flavor, use thick-cut bacon. The crumbles will add a delightful crunch and smoky taste that elevates the entire dish.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes serving much easier.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider topping your casserole with chopped green onions or fresh parsley before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven for a quick and satisfying meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 332kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 72mg