Easy Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

Active Time:

15 mins

Total Time:

45 mins

Servings:

4 to 6

Need to convince your kids to eat cauliflower casserole? Lucky for you, not only is this version loaded with veggies, it also makes the most of your pantry staples. Grab the panko and a can of cream of chicken soup, and you're practically halfway there.

Ready in just 45 minutes, cauliflower casserole is the ultimate weeknight casserole, though it makes a statement at any potluck supper, too. For a party-ready touch, add a dash of parsley to your casserole as soon as you pull it out of the oven. It's the ultimate way to dress up the golden panko topping if you're making and taking for a special occasion.

Learn how to make cauliflower casserole. Your family will love seeing this in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Ingredients for Easy Cauliflower Casserole

Just six main ingredients are needed to make this cheesy, vegetable-laden dish. To make easy cauliflower casserole, you'll need:

Cauliflower: The star ingredient of the dish, imparting a mild flavor and tender texture.
Cream of chicken soup: The base for the creamy sauce, adding a savory, rich flavor.
Sour cream: For a touch of tanginess and an extra creamy texture.
Cooking spray: To prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish.
Sharp Cheddar cheese: Sprinkled over the dish for a cheesy topping.
Panko: For a crispy coating that browns nicely in the oven as the casserole bakes.
Salted butter: Binds the breadcrumbs and promotes even browning.
Fresh flat-leaf parsley: For a pop of freshness and color.

How To Make Easy Cauliflower Casserole

Fifteen minutes of active time, and you'll have a bubbly, cheesy dish that's ready to serve the whole family. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

Step 1. Prepare oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray an 8-inch square baking dish to coat.
Step 2. Cook cauliflower: Trim cauliflower into florets. Boil in a large saucepan of boiling salted water until tender. Drain and return to saucepan.
Step 3. Mix casserole filling: Stir together cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Add to cauliflower and toss to combine.
Step 4. Move filling to baking dish: Transfer mixture to baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and panko and dot with butter.
Step 5. Bake casserole: Bake until bubbly and golden brown. Top with parsley.

Easy Cauliflower Casserole Variations

To change up this easy casserole, consider these variations:

Cauliflower: Mix in broccoli, diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach in the place of some of the cauliflower for color and texture.
Protein: Stir in diced or shredded chicken, turkey, ham, or pulled pork to turn this casserole into a one-dish meal.
Soup: Don't have cream of chicken? Any "cream of" soup will do the trick. Try cream of celery to mix things up.
Sour cream: Swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
Cheese: Swap all or part of the cheese with Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or other preferred cheeses.
Panko: Swap with plain or flavored breadcrumbs, or crushed buttery crackers for a fun spin. Sprinkle on Parmesan for an extra cheesy twist or sliced almonds for crunch.
Garnishes: Garnish the dish with other herbs, including chopped chives, green onions, or cilantro.

Can I Make Easy Cauliflower Casserole Ahead?

This casserole can be made in advance for a ready-to-bake side dish. Prepare as directed through Step 4. Cover and refrigerate the casserole for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.

Bring casserole to room temperature while you preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake and serve as directed.

What To Serve With Cauliflower Casserole

Cauliflower casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes and entrées for a balanced meal. Pair with grilled chicken or fish, seared steak, grilled shrimp, or any favorite proteins. Serve with rice, pasta, roasted potatoes, or other hearty sides for a filling meal.

How To Store and Reheat Leftover Cauliflower Casserole

Wrap and store leftover casserole in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then reheat, covered with foil, in a preheated 350°F oven until hot throughout before serving.

More Hearty Veggie Casserole Recipes You'll Love

File these nutritious and delicious casseroles under "Go-To Side Dishes" that the whole family will enjoy:

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.

Ingredients

1 medium (1 lb.) head cauliflower
1 (10.5-oz.) can cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
Cooking spray
2 oz. sharp Cheddar cheese, grated (about 1/2 cup)
1/4 cup panko (Japanese-style breadcrumbs)
1/4 cup salted butter, thinly sliced
Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional)

Directions

Prepare oven:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook cauliflower:

Trim cauliflower into florets. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil over high; add cauliflower, and boil until just tender, 4 to 5 minutes. Drain cauliflower, and return to saucepan.
Mix casserole filling:

Stir together cream of chicken soup and sour cream in a small bowl; add to cauliflower, and toss to combine.
Move filling to baking dish:

Transfer mixture to baking dish. Sprinkle casserole with cheese and panko; dot with butter slices.
Bake casserole:

Bake in preheated oven until casserole is bubbly and panko is golden, about 30 minutes. If desired, top with parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cauliflower for cauliflower casserole?

You can use frozen cauliflower to make this casserole. Just thaw and drain thoroughly before using, and note that the cooking time may need to be shortened for the right texture.
How do I prevent cauliflower casserole from becoming watery?

To prevent a watery result, drain the cauliflower well after cooking. Blot with paper towels if needed to dry completely before proceeding with the recipe.
What type of cheese is best for cauliflower casserole?

While we love the flavor of sharp Cheddar cheese in this casserole, feel free to substitute with any cheese you prefer, including Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Gruyère, and more.
What can I use as a substitute for breadcrumbs to top cauliflower casserole?

If looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with crushed sliced almonds, pine nuts, or gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also skip the breadcrumbs and opt just for a cheesy topping if preferred.