Transform your dinner table with this irresistible Herbed Cauliflower Bake—a rich, cheesy, and herb-infused casserole that’s as comforting as it is nutritious. Tender cauliflower florets are bathed in a creamy cheddar-Parmesan sauce spiced with garlic powder, oregano, and parsley, then topped with crispy, golden panko breadcrumbs for the perfect crunch. This easy-to-make dish combines classic comfort food textures and flavors with a boost of vegetables, making it an ideal side or even a standout vegetarian main course. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh parsley, for a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Keywords: herbed cauliflower bake, cheesy cauliflower casserole, easy casserole recipes, vegetarian comfort food, baked cauliflower dish.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Cut the cauliflower head into bite-sized florets. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the cauliflower for 4-5 minutes, or until just tender. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
In the prepared baking dish, arrange the blanched cauliflower evenly. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, spreading it to cover all the cauliflower.
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cauliflower and cheese sauce.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese sauce is bubbling.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Calories |
2095 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 139.6 g | 179% | |
| Saturated Fat | 71.6 g | 358% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 353 mg | 118% | |
| Sodium | 5800 mg | 252% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 125.0 g | 45% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.6 g | 56% | |
| Total Sugars | 39.2 g | ||
| Protein | 97.9 g | 196% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.6 mcg | 28% | |
| Calcium | 2463 mg | 189% | |
| Iron | 8.1 mg | 45% | |
| Potassium | 2934 mg | 62% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.