Name: Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cauliflower head (cut into bite-sized pieces); 3 jalapenos (de-seeded and chopped); 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese; 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese; 4 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Introduction

This Tasty Jalapeno Popper Cauliflower Casserole is a flavorful twist on a classic appetizer. Roasted cauliflower combines with spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon for a comforting dish that everyone will love. It’s perfect as a side or a hearty snack.

A clear glass baking dish filled with a layered casserole, starting with a base of cooked cauliflower pieces that are white and slightly browned, mixed with slices of green jalapeños scattered throughout. On top of this base are small, crisp chunks of reddish-brown cooked bacon. The whole dish is covered in melted, bright orange cheddar cheese, with some areas more thickly covered, giving a gooey texture. The edges of the baking dish show light browning from cooking. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cauliflower head (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tablespoons softened cream cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3 jalapenos (de-seeded and chopped)
4 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C). Spread the cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes to soften and enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Remove the cauliflower from the oven and reduce the temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Step 3: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a mixing bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat the cauliflower evenly.
Step 4: Pour the cauliflower mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped jalapenos and crumbled bacon evenly on top. Then cover with grated cheddar cheese for a cheesy crust.
Step 5: Bake the casserole at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling but not browned. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, leave some jalapeno seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.
Use turkey bacon for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika to enhance the seasoning.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 10 minutes to restore the crispy cheese topping. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact.

How to Serve

A glass baking dish filled with baked cauliflower florets that have slight brown spots on the edges, covered with melted golden cheddar cheese. Scattered on top are slices of green jalapeño peppers and small pieces of crispy browned bacon. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving for the best texture.

Can I use fresh jalapenos instead of de-seeded ones?

Absolutely. Removing the seeds reduces the heat, but if you prefer a spicier dish, keep the seeds or add extra jalapenos as desired.