Mashed Cauliflower Mini Casseroles

I’ve always had a love affair with carbs. Bread. Pasta. Potatoes. Cupcakes. Cookies. Brownies. Beer. Those are a few of my favorite things. But we all know that carbs aren’t exactly the best thing for us to eat. They can be pretty unhealthy, especially when the carbs consumed consist of refined carbs and they aren’t too friendly to our waistelines. I really enjoy a good baked potato, a heaping serving of mashed potatoes, and various potato casseroles.

But alas, I’ve decided to reduce my carb intake again. It won’t be a drastic reduction but I’m going to sub some high carb side dishes with low carb side dishes. Which brings me to the recipe that I will be sharing with you today: Mashed Cauliflower Mini Casseroles.  If you’re looking for a low carb recipe that’s a perfect substitute for mashed potatoes or baked potatoes, then this is your recipe. Cauliflower has such a mild taste that it’s hard to believe that this casserole is in fact made with cauliflower rather than potatoes. If you’d rather not have mini casseroles, then just pour the mixture into a small casserole dish instead of the ramekin. I hope you enjoy this recipe!

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Why This Mashed Cauliflower Casserole Recipe Works

The idea of using cauliflower as a stand-in for potatoes has been around for a while, especially with more folks looking for lower-carb options. It’s a fantastic vegetable, versatile and mild, which makes it perfect for taking on other flavors. For years, people have steamed it, mashed it, and seasoned it, trying to replicate that classic mashed potato experience. The results were often good, but they rarely achieved that “special occasion” status.

This recipe changes that. It works because it embraces cauliflower for what it is and then elevates it with classic casserole techniques. We are not just making a simple mash. We are building a true Mashed Cauliflower Casserole, complete with layers of flavor and texture that make it feel rich and satisfying.

The real magic is in the final step: the broiler. By spooning the creamy cauliflower mixture into individual ramekins and topping it generously with cheese and bacon, we set the stage for something special. Placing it under that direct, high heat for just a few minutes creates a perfectly melted, slightly crispy, and utterly irresistible crust. This broiling technique is the twist that takes it from a simple weeknight side to a showstopper. It creates a sensory experience, the crispiness of the topping giving way to the velvety puree below, that makes everyone forget they’re not eating potatoes.

It’s familiar comfort food, reimagined. It delivers all the savory, cheesy, bacon-y goodness you crave in a loaded potato dish, but with a lighter base that won’t weigh you down. The single-serving presentation also makes it feel a bit more elegant and special, perfect for impressing guests or just making a family dinner feel a little more memorable.

Ingredients for Mashed Cauliflower Casserole

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. We are using a handful of classic, comforting ingredients to create something truly spectacular. There is nothing complicated here, but choosing good quality ingredients will really make the final dish shine. This isn’t just a side dish, it’s an experience, and it starts with what you put into it.

Here’s exactly what you will need to get started:

• 1 head of cauliflower, florets removed and chopped
• 1/4 C heavy cream
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp salt
• A dash of ground pepper (about 1/8 tsp)
• Shredded cheese (use desired amount)
• Bacon bits (use desired amount)
• Chives (use desired amount)

The key to the incredible creaminess of this Mashed Cauliflower Casserole is without a doubt the heavy cream. Please, do not substitute this with milk or half-and-half. The high fat content in heavy cream is essential for creating that luxurious, velvety texture and rich flavor that prevents the mash from tasting watery. It’s what makes this casserole feel so indulgent.

For the cheese, I highly recommend shredding your own from a block. A sharp cheddar is my go-to for that classic loaded-potato flavor, but Monterey Jack or a Colby blend would also be wonderful. Pre-shredded cheeses are often coated with starches to prevent clumping, which can make them melt into a greasy or grainy layer. Freshly shredded cheese melts smoothly and evenly under the broiler, giving you that perfect, bubbly golden-brown top. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in the final product.

Step-by-Step Instructions For Making Mashed Cauliflower Casserole

Following these steps carefully will ensure your casserole comes out perfectly creamy on the inside with a deliciously cheesy and crisp topping. The process is straightforward, but a few key techniques make all the difference. Get your ramekins ready, because we are about to make something special.

Step 1: Boil the Cauliflower

First things first, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. A little dash of salt in the water will help season the cauliflower from the very beginning. Add your chopped cauliflower florets and let them cook until they are very tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork with almost no resistance. This is crucial for getting a smooth puree later on.

Step 2: Drain and Puree

Once tender, drain the cauliflower in a colander. This is a very important step. You want to get rid of as much water as possible to avoid a soupy casserole. Let it sit and steam for a minute or two to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Then, transfer the hot cauliflower to a large mixing bowl. Using an immersion blender, puree the cauliflower until it’s smooth. If you don’t have one, a food processor works just as well, or you can use a traditional potato masher for a more rustic texture.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Goodness

Now it’s time to transform the simple cauliflower puree into a creamy dream. Add the heavy cream, butter, salt, and a dash of ground pepper directly to the bowl with the warm cauliflower. Mix everything together well until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is smooth, velvety, and evenly combined. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if you feel it needs a little more salt or pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Casseroles

Spoon the creamy cauliflower mixture evenly into your individual ramekin bowls. This single-serving approach is what makes the dish feel so special. Top each one generously with your freshly shredded cheese and a sprinkle of bacon bits. Don’t be shy here, the topping is the star of the show.

Step 5: Broil to Perfection

Place the filled ramekins on a sturdy baking sheet, which makes them easier to move in and out of the oven. Set your oven to broil on high and place the baking sheet on an upper rack, but not the very top one. Watch them like a hawk! A broiler works very fast, and you want bubbly, golden-brown cheese, not burnt cheese. This should only take a few minutes. The moment it looks perfect, pull it out.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Carefully remove the hot ramekins from the oven. For a final touch of fresh flavor and color, sprinkle some freshly chopped chives over the top. Let them cool for just a minute before serving them warm.

How To Serve Mashed Cauliflower Casserole

One of the best things about these individual Mashed Cauliflower Casseroles is how wonderfully versatile they are. The elegant presentation in ramekins makes them feel special enough for a holiday meal or a dinner party, yet they are simple enough to accompany a weeknight family dinner. They arrive at the table perfectly portioned and piping hot, with that irresistible bubbly cheese topping calling everyone’s name.

I absolutely love serving this dish as a sophisticated, lower-carb alternative to loaded baked potatoes or mashed potatoes. It pairs beautifully with hearty main courses, providing a rich and savory counterpoint without being overly heavy. Imagine these little casseroles sitting next to a perfectly roasted chicken, a juicy seared steak, or a thick-cut pork chop. The creamy interior and cheesy bacon crust complement the savory flavors of the meat perfectly.

For a truly memorable meal, consider these serving suggestions:

• Holiday Feasts: Place a ramekin at each guest’s setting for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. It’s a beautiful, personal touch that elevates the entire tablescape and makes serving a breeze.
• Steakhouse Night at Home: Serve alongside a grilled ribeye or filet mignon with a side of steamed asparagus or green beans for a classic steakhouse experience.
• Cozy Sunday Supper: This casserole is the ultimate comfort food side dish for a Sunday pot roast or a glazed ham.
• A Lighter Main Course: For a simple lunch or a light dinner, you can even serve a single casserole alongside a fresh, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of creamy cauliflower, savory bacon, and melted cheese is a universal crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe before the night is over.

How To Store & Reuse Mashed Cauliflower Casserole Leftovers

While these little casseroles are so delicious they often disappear in one sitting, on the off chance you have leftovers, they store and reheat beautifully. The key is to store them properly to maintain that wonderful texture. Unlike leftover mashed potatoes which can sometimes get gummy, this mashed cauliflower casserole holds up remarkably well.

First, allow the ramekins to cool completely to room temperature. Rushing this step can create condensation, which might make your leftovers a bit watery. Once cooled, you can either cover each individual ramekin tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or you can scoop the leftovers from the ramekins into a single airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

When you are ready to enjoy them again, you have a couple of great options for reheating:

• Oven Reheating: This is my preferred method as it helps re-crisp the cheesy topping. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and heat for 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through. If the top looks like it needs a little refresh, you can add a small sprinkle of extra cheese and pop it under the broiler for a minute.
• Microwave Reheating: For a quick and easy option, you can reheat the casserole in the microwave. If it’s still in the ramekin, make sure the dish is microwave-safe. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring if possible, until hot. The topping won’t be as crisp, but it will still be cheesy and delicious.
• Creative Reuse: Leftover mashed cauliflower casserole makes a fantastic base for other dishes. Try using it as a topping for a low-carb shepherd’s pie or thin it out with a little chicken broth to create a creamy cauliflower soup.

Properly stored and reheated, your leftovers will be just as comforting and satisfying as when they were first made. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a delicious, easy meal on a busy weeknight.

Substitutions & Variations For Mashed Cauliflower Casserole

This Mashed Cauliflower Casserole recipe is fantastic as written, but it’s also an incredibly flexible base for your own creative touches. Think of it as a blank canvas for all sorts of delicious flavors. Whether you need to adjust for dietary reasons or you’re just in the mood to experiment, there are plenty of simple swaps and additions you can make.

Don’t be afraid to play around with the ingredients to make this dish your own. It’s a forgiving recipe that welcomes new ideas. Just remember to keep the core components of a creamy base and a savory topping, and you’ll have a winning side dish every time.

Here are a few of my favorite substitutions and variations to get you started:

• • Cheese Swaps: While sharp cheddar is a classic, feel free to get creative with your cheese. Smoked Gouda would add a wonderful smoky depth, Gruyère would give it a nutty, sophisticated flavor, and a spicy Pepper Jack would add a nice kick of heat.
  • Herb Variations: Fresh chives are lovely, but other herbs work beautifully too. Try stirring a little fresh rosemary or thyme into the cauliflower puree before baking for a more earthy, aromatic flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end can also brighten things up.

* Make it Vegetarian: To make this a vegetarian-friendly dish, simply omit the bacon bits. You can get a similar savory crunch by topping the casserole with crispy fried onions or toasted breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter before broiling.

* Dairy-Free or Vegan Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut cream, use a high-quality vegan butter, and top with your favorite brand of dairy-free shredded cheese. The results are surprisingly rich and creamy.

* Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cauliflower mixture. You could also stir in some finely diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas or come up with your own. That’s the fun of cooking, taking a great recipe and adding your own personal twist to make it perfect for your family.

Mashed Cauliflower Mini Casseroles

Yield: 3 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

This low carb recipe is a great alternative to baked potatoes! Individual servings are perfect for grab and go meals or freezing for future use.

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Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower, florets removed and chopped
• 1/4 C heavy cream
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp salt
• A dash of ground pepper (about 1/8 tsp)
• Shredded cheese (use desired amount)
• Bacon bits (use desired amount)
• Chives (use desired amount)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil (add a dash of salt to the water.) Add the cauliflower and cook until tender.
2. Drain the cauliflower and place in a mixing bowl. Puree with an immersion blender.
3. Add the heavy cream, butter, salt and pepper and mix well.
4. Spoon the cauliflower mixture into ramekin bowls and top with the shredded cheese and bacon bits.
5. Place the casseroles on a baking pan and place in the oven. Broil on high for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly. Be sure to watch the broiling as to not let the cheese burn. It doesn't take long to get it bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and top with chives.

Notes

Calories: 213; Fat: 16g; Protein: 8g; Sugar: 5g; Carbs: 11g

5 FAQs About Mashed Cauliflower Casserole

Here are some straightforward answers to the most common questions I receive about this Mashed Cauliflower Casserole recipe.

Why is my Mashed Cauliflower Casserole watery?

This is the most common issue people run into, and it almost always comes down to one thing: excess moisture in the cauliflower. To avoid a watery casserole, the most critical step is draining the boiled cauliflower thoroughly. After you pour it into a colander, let it sit for a few minutes to allow the steam to carry away as much water as possible. You can even gently press on the florets with the back of a spoon to release more liquid.

Another tip is to avoid over-boiling. Cook the cauliflower only until it is fork-tender. If it cooks for too long, it can become waterlogged. Some people prefer to steam their cauliflower instead of boiling it, as this introduces less water from the start. If you follow these steps, and use full-fat heavy cream instead of a lower-fat milk, you should have a thick, creamy, and luscious mash every time.

Can I make this Mashed Cauliflower Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is one of the reasons I love this recipe for entertaining. You can prepare the entire dish right up until the final broiling step. Go ahead and boil and mash the cauliflower, mix in the cream and butter, spoon it into your ramekins, and add the cheese and bacon toppings. Cover the ramekins tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

When you’re ready to serve, just remove the plastic wrap and pop the baking sheet of ramekins into the oven. You may need to add a few minutes to the initial warming time before broiling. I suggest baking them at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to warm them through, then switch to the broiler for the last few minutes to get that perfect golden, bubbly top. It’s a fantastic time-saver for holiday meals or dinner parties.

What kind of cheese is best for Mashed Cauliflower Casserole?

You have so many wonderful options when it comes to cheese. For that classic “loaded baked potato” flavor, a good quality medium or sharp cheddar is the perfect choice. It has a nice tang that cuts through the richness of the cream and bacon. Colby or Monterey Jack are also great options as they are excellent melting cheeses that will give you a beautiful cheese pull.

If you want to get a little fancier, try using Gruyère for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, or smoked Gouda for a deep, smoky taste that pairs incredibly well with the bacon. The most important tip I can give you is to buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheeses have additives that prevent them from melting as smoothly, and freshly grated cheese will give you a far superior creamy, bubbly topping.

How do I get a smooth texture for my Mashed Cauliflower Casserole?

The key to a perfectly smooth, velvety texture is using the right tool for the job. An immersion blender is my personal favorite for this task because you can puree the cauliflower right in the bowl you mixed it in, which means fewer dishes to wash. It does a fantastic job of breaking down all the fibers and creating a silky-smooth consistency.

A food processor or a high-powered blender will also give you a very smooth result. Just be careful not to over-process, as it can sometimes make the mixture a bit gummy. If you don’t have any of these appliances, a simple potato masher will work too. It will result in a more rustic, slightly lumpy texture, which some people actually prefer. The secret with a masher is to ensure your cauliflower is cooked until it is very, very tender so it breaks down easily.

Is Mashed Cauliflower Casserole healthy?

“Healthy” can mean different things to different people, depending on their dietary goals. Compared to a traditional loaded mashed potato casserole, this Mashed Cauliflower Casserole is significantly lower in carbohydrates and calories, making it a great choice for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Cauliflower itself is packed with vitamins and fiber.

However, this is still a rich and indulgent casserole. We are adding heavy cream, butter, cheese, and bacon, which contribute fat and calories. I look at this dish not as “diet food,” but as a delicious, comforting, and more vegetable-forward version of a classic favorite. It’s about enjoying real, whole-food ingredients to create a satisfying dish that fits beautifully into a balanced way of eating. It’s a wonderful way to get more vegetables onto the plate in a way that feels like a treat.

Try These Recipes Next

If you loved the comforting, crowd-pleasing nature of this casserole, I have a few other recipes I think you will enjoy.

• Over 25 Thanksgiving Casserole Recipes: This is my ultimate roundup of holiday-worthy casseroles, from sweet potato to green bean and everything in between.
• Savory Low Carb Recipes: If you’re looking for more delicious recipes that are low in carbs but high in flavor, this collection has plenty of ideas for every meal.
• Four Cheese Pasta with Prosciutto and Peas: This post features another one of my favorite casserole creations, a rich and creamy pasta bake that’s perfect for a family dinner.

I hope these give you even more inspiration for your next meal!