Queso Cauliflower Bake
Queso Cauliflower Bake is the ultimate comfort food disguised as a veggie dish. This cheesy, flavor-packed casserole blends roasted cauliflower with a creamy queso-inspired sauce, green chiles, and taco seasoning—delivering bold Tex-Mex flavor in every bite.
Why People Will Love This Recipe:
Comfort food meets low-carb: It’s rich, creamy, and satisfying without pasta or potatoes.
Easy one-dish meal: Minimal prep, oven-baked, and perfect for weeknights.
Family-friendly: Great for picky eaters—especially those who think they don’t like cauliflower.
Customizable: You can spice it up, swap cheeses, or add protein.
Perfect for potlucks or meal prep: Makes plenty and reheats beautifully.
Key Ingredients Highlights:
Cauliflower: The base, providing bulk and a neutral flavor to soak up the queso.
White cheddar & mozzarella: A melty, gooey combo that brings sharpness and stretch.
Cream cheese & evaporated milk: These create the silky queso-style sauce.
Green chiles & taco seasoning: Bring the bold, zesty, southwest flavor.
Cilantro: A fresh finishing touch that brightens the dish.
Kitchen Tools & Timing:
Cutting board & knife
Large mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Measuring cups & spoons
Oven
Queso Cauliflower Bake
Ingredients:
2 heads cauliflower, roughly chopped
2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
2 (4 oz) cans diced green chiles
3 teaspoons taco seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a touch of oil.
Roughly chop the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces and scatter them evenly across the base of the prepared baking dish. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of the white cheddar, the mozzarella, and the softened cream cheese. Stir until creamy and well blended.
Add in the evaporated milk, green chiles, taco seasoning, salt, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until you have a smooth, rich cheese sauce.
Pour the cheesy mixture evenly over the cauliflower. Sprinkle the remaining cup of white cheddar across the top.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the cauliflower is fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbling.
Finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh, herby touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
(Per Serving, approx. for 8 servings):
Calories: ~320 | Fat: ~24g | Carbohydrates: ~10g | Protein: ~16g | Fiber: ~3g | Sodium: ~650mg
Recipe Swaps & Variations:
Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, ground beef, or chorizo before baking.
Low-dairy option: Use dairy-free cheeses and coconut milk for a vegan twist.
Switch cheeses: Pepper jack or gouda add a twist to the flavor profile.
Add veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or roasted corn work well in the mix.
Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or chipotle powder for extra heat.
How to Store Leftovers:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave in 30-second bursts until hot.
Food & Drink Pairings:
Side dishes: Cilantro-lime rice, black beans, or a fresh avocado-tomato salad.
Drinks: Sparkling water with lime, light beer, or a chilled margarita.
Toppings: Sliced jalapeños, sour cream, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is this recipe low-carb or keto?
Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs and can be keto-friendly if you check cheese and seasoning labels.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but thaw and drain it thoroughly first to avoid a watery casserole.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
Is it spicy?
Mild as written. Add extra green chiles or hot sauce if you want more heat.
Can I make it without green chiles?
Sure. Just skip them or replace with sautéed bell peppers or jalapeños.
Do I need to steam or roast the cauliflower first?
Nope! It bakes in the oven and softens perfectly without pre-cooking.
Can I blend the cheese sauce before pouring?
It’s not necessary, but you can blend for an ultra-smooth texture if desired.
Why is my sauce too thick/thin?
Adjust with a little milk to thin or add more cheese to thicken before baking.
Can I use a different baking dish size?
Yes. Just adjust the baking time slightly if using a deeper or smaller dish.
How can I make it crispier on top?
Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, or top with crushed tortilla chips before baking.