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Cheesy Cauliflower Alfredo Bake Recipe

Cheesy Cauliflower Alfredo Bake Recipe

Tender cauliflower baked in a silky Parmesan Alfredo sauce, topped with melty mozzarella and a buttery crunch. Cozy, weeknight-friendly comfort food.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lb fresh cauliflower florets cut into bite-size pieces
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter divided
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cup half-and-half room temperature if possible
  • 1.25 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 2 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese low-moisture preferred
  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp kosher salt plus more for blanching water
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Heat oven to 400°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch cauliflower 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
  • Drain thoroughly and spread on a towel to steam-dry while you make the sauce.
  • Melt 3 tbsp butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  • Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute to form a blond roux.
  • Slowly whisk in half-and-half. Simmer, whisking, until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
  • Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and nutmeg.
  • Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  • Fold cauliflower into the Alfredo sauce. Spread mixture in the prepared dish.
  • Melt remaining 1 tbsp butter. Toss with breadcrumbs, then sprinkle over the casserole. Top with mozzarella.
  • Bake 18–22 minutes until bubbling and golden. Broil 1–2 minutes for extra color if desired.
  • Rest 5 minutes. Shower with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Variation: Swap half the mozzarella with shredded provolone for a smokier finish, or use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a lower-carb topping. Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days; reheat covered at 350°F until warmed through.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Cheesy Cauliflower Alfredo Bake Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.