Go Back
–+ servings
Caramelized Onion & Bacon Cauliflower Cheese Bake

Caramelized Onion & Bacon Cauliflower Cheese Bake

This Caramelized Onion & Bacon Cauliflower Cheese Bake combines earthy sweetness with smoky bacon for a comforting dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Caramelized Onion & Bacon Cauliflower Cheese Bake Ingredients
  • 2.5 pounds cauliflower choose fresh, firm heads for optimal flavor and texture.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter use butter for a richer taste, or stick with olive oil for a lighter option.
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika adds delightful depth of flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder enhances savory notes in the creamy bake.
  • Salt to taste; start with a pinch!
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste; adds warmth and a little kick.
  • 2 ounces softened cream cheese makes the bake incredibly creamy and rich.
  • 0.33 cup plain Greek yogurt adds a tangy taste and makes it lighter.
  • 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for a gooey, melty texture everyone loves.
  • 0.5 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese gives a robust flavor, perfect for comforting meals.
  • 0.25 cup thinly sliced green onions adds a fresh, crunchy contrast on top.
  • 5 slices turkey bacon use for a lovely crispiness that elevates the entire dish.
  • Cooking spray or olive oil prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup!

Equipment

  • 9×9-inch baking dish
  • skillet
  • Large pot
  • blender
  • Paper towel

Method
 

How to Make Caramelized Onion & Bacon Cauliflower Cheese Bake
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
  2. Boil a large pot of salted water and add the cauliflower florets. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until very tender.
  3. Sauté sliced onions in a skillet with olive oil or butter, adding a pinch of salt. Cook for 10–12 minutes until they soften and turn golden brown.
  4. Crisp the chopped turkey bacon in the same skillet for about 5–6 minutes until it’s nice and crispy.
  5. Blend the cooked cauliflower with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cream cheese until smooth.
  6. Mix in the Greek yogurt and most of the cheese, reserving some for topping.
  7. Combine the caramelized onions, crispy turkey bacon, and green onions into the cauliflower mixture, saving a small portion of each for topping.
  8. Spread the creamy mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, then top with the reserved cheese, green onions, and bacon.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
  10. Let it rest for a few minutes after taking it out, then sprinkle with extra smoked paprika and green onions before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 12gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

When making this bake, use fresh cauliflower for the best flavor. Avoid overcooking; it should be tender but not mushy. Sauté onions slowly for proper caramelization, and let the bake rest after removing from the oven for easier serving.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!