Description
This creamy ground beef and cauliflower casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining tender cauliflower florets with savory ground beef, rich cream cheese, sour cream, and a blend of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfectly seasoned and baked until bubbly and golden, it makes a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional beef casseroles.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Vegetables & Topping
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole later.
- Cook Cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until just tender, about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain thoroughly to remove all excess water to prevent a soggy casserole.
- Sauté Beef and Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and finely chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika, cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Stir the softened cream cheese and sour cream into the beef mixture. Continue mixing until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until blended evenly.
- Combine Cauliflower: Gently fold the cooked cauliflower into the creamy beef mixture, ensuring the cauliflower is evenly coated without breaking the florets.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top, then evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking so it sets and becomes easier to serve. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheeses and lean ground beef.
- Cauliflower can be substituted with broccoli or a mix of vegetables for variety.
- If you prefer, you can steam the cauliflower in the microwave for convenience.
- Ensure to drain the cooked cauliflower thoroughly to avoid watery casserole.
- Add some crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
