Creamy Cheesy Beef & Cauliflower Casserole
A warm, comforting casserole loaded with savory ground beef, tender cauliflower, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This easy one-pan dinner is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Every bite is packed with melty cheese, seasoned beef, and wholesome vegetables—comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 4–5 minutes, until just tender. Drain well and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Season the beef mixture with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Fold in half of the cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
Add the cooked cauliflower to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the cheesy beef mixture.
Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese over the top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Colby cheese if preferred.
This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying—this is a dinner the whole family will ask for again and again!
