Queso Cauliflower Bake

Looking for a cheesy, comforting, low-carb side dish that still brings bold flavor to the table? This Queso Cauliflower Bake is the perfect answer. Featuring tender roasted cauliflower smothered in a creamy, spicy queso sauce, this dish satisfies your cravings without being too heavy. It’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that works well as a side or even a main dish for lighter meals.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy & Comforting – Packed with gooey, creamy cheese in every bite.
Low-Carb & Gluten-Free – A lighter alternative to mac and cheese without sacrificing taste.
Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.
Easy to Make – Simple steps and wholesome ingredients.
Perfect Side or Main – Versatile enough for holidays, weeknights, or potlucks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Roasted Cauliflower:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Queso Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping:

• ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 small jalapeño, sliced (optional for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
Remove from oven and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Queso Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
Stir in the diced green chilies.
Lower heat and add cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine & Assemble
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if not already on.
In a large mixing bowl, combine roasted cauliflower and queso sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the top with the additional ¼ cup of cheese.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is melted and bubbly.
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes to achieve a golden cheesy crust.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired.
Serve warm as a side or enjoy as a vegetarian main dish.

Tips for a Perfect Queso Bake
Cut Even Cauliflower Pieces – Ensures uniform roasting and texture.
Don’t Skip Roasting – Roasting adds a nutty depth of flavor.
Use Full-Fat Dairy – For a truly rich and creamy sauce.
Customize the Heat – Adjust chili powder or add hot sauce to your liking.
Make Ahead – Assemble and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

Serving Suggestions
Taco Night Side – Serve alongside chicken or beef tacos.
Low-Carb Dinner – Pair with grilled protein like chicken breast or steak.
Holiday Table – A cheesy, gluten-free side for festive meals.
Potluck Favorite – Easy to transport and reheat at gatherings.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: This bake freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat covered at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before roasting to avoid sogginess.

2. Is this bake spicy?
It has a mild kick from the pepper jack and green chilies, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking.

3. What other cheeses can I use?
Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend for variation.

4. Can I add meat to this dish?
Absolutely. Add cooked ground turkey, shredded chicken, or beef for a heartier meal.

5. Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, with a simple swap: replace the flour with almond flour or omit it for a thinner sauce.

Final Thoughts
This Queso Cauliflower Bake is everything you want in a comfort dish—cheesy, flavorful, and irresistibly satisfying, yet with a lighter twist. It’s easy to prep, customizable, and always a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re making it for taco night or as a holiday side, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.

Give this recipe a try and don’t forget to leave a review or share your creations online. I can’t wait to see how you serve it!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 12g | Carbohydrates: 10g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 420mg

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