Keto Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

A creamy, cheesy keto loaded cauliflower casserole with crispy bacon, cheddar, and sour cream that tastes like a loaded baked potato. Just 5.2g net carbs per serving and ready in 45 minutes total.

Jordan Lee
Jordan Lee

Head of Nutrition · June 18, 2026

Keto Loaded Cauliflower Casserole
15 min
Prep
30 min
Cook
45 min
Ready in
8
Servings
Easy
Difficulty

Nutrition per serving

5.2g
Net carbs
2.3g
Fiber
7.5g
Total carbs
12g
Protein
26g
Fats
312
Calories

Per serving · makes 8. Values are estimates; brands vary.

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This keto loaded cauliflower casserole delivers all the comfort of a loaded baked potato — cheddar, bacon, sour cream, and green onions — without the carbs. It's an easy, crowd-pleasing side that comes together in one dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into florets
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Steam the cauliflower florets for 8-10 minutes until fork-tender, then drain well and pat dry to remove excess moisture.

  2. 2

    Roughly mash the cauliflower in a large bowl, leaving some texture. Stir in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until creamy.

  3. 3

    Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar, half the crumbled bacon, and half the green onions. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

  4. 4

    Top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and the rest of the bacon. Bake for 18-20 minutes until bubbly and the cheese is golden.

  5. 5

    Remove from the oven, scatter the remaining green onions over the top, and let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & notes

  • Patting the steamed cauliflower dry is key — excess water makes the casserole runny instead of rich and creamy.
  • Assemble up to a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake just before serving (add 5 extra minutes if baking from cold).
  • Swap in pepper jack cheese and a pinch of cayenne for a spicy version.

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Frequently asked questions

How many carbs are in keto loaded cauliflower casserole?
Each of the 8 servings has 5.2g net carbs, 312 calories, 12g protein, and 26g fat, making it an easy fit for a keto or low-carb side dish.
Can I make this loaded cauliflower casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole fully, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake straight from the fridge, adding about 5 extra minutes until hot and bubbly.
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Thaw and steam 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of frozen florets, then drain and pat very dry. Frozen cauliflower holds more water, so squeezing out moisture is even more important.

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