Loaded Cauliflower is the ultimate low-carb side dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
This keto-friendly, gluten-free side dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.
Whether you’re planning keto Christmas side dishes, delicious Thanksgiving keto appetizers, or just need a quick and easy keto dinner, this low-carb, low-calorie recipe fits the bill.
It’s a 20-minute recipe that’s perfect for low-carb family dinners, packed with flavor, and simple to make.
This healthy recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to make this delicious Loaded Cauliflower? Let’s get started!
Loaded Cauliflower Ingredients
This dish is all about simple, flavorful ingredients that come together to make something amazing:
- Cauliflower: The low-carb star of the show, perfect for a keto side dish, packed with fiber and nutrients.
- Sour Cream: Adds a tangy creaminess, keeping the dish rich and delicious.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds that classic, cheesy flavor we all love.
- Bacon: Crispy and savory, bacon brings an irresistible crunch and smoky flavor.
- Chives: Fresh and mild, they add a burst of color and a subtle onion-like flavor.
- Butter: Makes the cauliflower extra rich and smooth.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a hint of garlicky goodness that enhances all the other flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
Tips and Notes
Here are some tips to help you make the best Loaded Cauliflower every time:
- Microwave or Steam: Choose the microwave for a quick option or steam on the stovetop for a traditional approach.
- Perfect Texture: Blend the cauliflower until it’s fluffy, not too smooth, to mimic mashed potatoes.
- Cheese Variations: Mix up the cheese game by trying cheddar with mozzarella for extra stretchiness.
- Bacon Choices: Opt for turkey bacon or a vegetarian option if you’re looking for a lighter twist.
- Make Ahead: Prepare this dish in advance and reheat when needed. For best results, use the microwave on low power before finishing in the oven or broiler.
- Freezing Tips: Swap sour cream with cream cheese if you plan to freeze, to prevent separation.
How to Make Loaded Cauliflower
- Cook the Cauliflower: Start by cutting the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl with a couple of tablespoons of water. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and microwave for 5 to 8 minutes until the cauliflower is tender. You can also steam the cauliflower on the stovetop if you prefer. Once cooked, drain any extra water.
- Mash the Cauliflower: Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a food processor. Blend until it’s light and fluffy, resembling mashed potatoes in texture.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Mix in the butter, garlic powder, and sour cream with the mashed cauliflower in the food processor. Blend again until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Stir in Flavor Boosters: Move the mixture to a large bowl. Add most of the chopped chives and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Top: Spread the cauliflower mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheddar cheese, crispy bacon pieces, and the rest of the chives for added flavor and color.
- Melt and Serve: To finish, either microwave the dish for a minute or two to melt the cheese or place it under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve hot and enjoy this tasty, low-carb side dish!
Storage
Storing leftovers is simple:
- Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the microwave on medium power or in a preheated oven at 350°F until hot.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the mashed cauliflower (without toppings) in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight, reheat, and add fresh toppings before serving.
Enjoy this delicious Loaded Cauliflower as a versatile, flavorful, and easy side dish that’s perfect for any meal or occasion!
Yield: 4 servings
Loaded Cauliflower Recipe
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes
Loaded Cauliflower is a low-carb, keto side dish that's packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. With a creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and crispy bacon, it’s a delicious and healthy option. Quick to make in just 20 minutes, this dish is great for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts!
Ingredients
- 1 pound cauliflower
- 4 ounces sour cream
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chives snipped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Cauliflower: Start by cutting the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl with a couple of tablespoons of water. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and microwave for 5 to 8 minutes until the cauliflower is tender. You can also steam the cauliflower on the stovetop if you prefer. Once cooked, drain any extra water.
- Mash the Cauliflower: Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a food processor. Blend until it’s light and fluffy, resembling mashed potatoes in texture.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Mix in the butter, garlic powder, and sour cream with the mashed cauliflower in the food processor. Blend again until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Stir in Flavor Boosters: Move the mixture to a large bowl. Add most of the chopped chives and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Top: Spread the cauliflower mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheddar cheese, crispy bacon pieces, and the rest of the chives for added flavor and color.
- Melt and Serve: To finish, either microwave the dish for a minute or two to melt the cheese or place it under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve hot and enjoy this tasty, low-carb side dish!
Notes
Here are some tips to help you make the best Loaded Cauliflower every time:
- Microwave or Steam: Choose the microwave for a quick option or steam on the stovetop for a traditional approach.
- Perfect Texture: Blend the cauliflower until it's fluffy, not too smooth, to mimic mashed potatoes.
- Cheese Variations: Mix up the cheese game by trying cheddar with mozzarella for extra stretchiness.
- Bacon Choices: Opt for turkey bacon or a vegetarian option if you’re looking for a lighter twist.
- Make Ahead: Prepare this dish in advance and reheat when needed. For best results, use the microwave on low power before finishing in the oven or broiler.
- Freezing Tips: Swap sour cream with cream cheese if you plan to freeze, to prevent separation.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 301Total Fat 26gSaturated Fat 14gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 73mgSodium 450mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 3gSugar 4gProtein 11g
