Cauliflower Casserole: A Delicious and Creamy Comfort Food
When it comes to a comforting, hearty dish that combines simplicity with flavor, the Cauliflower Casserole stands out as an excellent choice. This creamy casserole blends tender cauliflower, smooth mashed potatoes, and the richness of mozzarella and Grana Padano, creating a satisfying second course perfect for any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or as a side for your next gathering, this recipe will be loved by all. The preparation is straightforward and easy to follow, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious dish without any hassle.
Ingredients for Cauliflower Casserole (Serves 4)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower | 800g |
| Potatoes | 400g |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Grana Padano DOP (cheese) | 80g |
| Mozzarella | 375g |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Nutmeg | To taste |
| Butter | To taste |
| Breadcrumbs | To taste |
| Fresh parsley | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Calcium | 250mg |
Instructions for Preparing Cauliflower Casserole
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Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by removing the outer leaves and the core from the cauliflower. Gently break the cauliflower into florets using a knife. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cauliflower florets for about 20 minutes, or until tender. You can test this by piercing the florets with the tines of a fork. Once softened, drain the cauliflower and set it aside to cool slightly.
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Cook the Potatoes: While the cauliflower is cooking, peel the potatoes and place them in a large pot filled with water. Bring the pot to a boil and cook the potatoes for 30-50 minutes, depending on their size. You’ll know they’re ready when they can be easily pierced with a fork. Once cooked, peel the potatoes while they’re still hot and place them into a large mixing bowl.
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Mash the Vegetables: Add the cooked cauliflower to the bowl with the potatoes. Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the cauliflower and potatoes together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. You can also use a food processor for an extra fine texture if preferred.
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Prepare the Flavoring: Crack the eggs into the mashed mixture, adding salt, black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg to taste. Stir in the grated Grana Padano cheese and mix everything well to combine.
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Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and grease a baking dish with butter. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking. Pour half of the mashed cauliflower and potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth it out with the back of a spoon. Layer half of the mozzarella slices over the top, and then repeat the process with the remaining mashed mixture and mozzarella slices.
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Top and Bake: Sprinkle a generous layer of breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole. Drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the breadcrumbs to ensure a golden, crispy top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
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Finish and Serve: Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the cauliflower casserole hot as a main or side dish and enjoy the delicious, creamy goodness!
Tips for Making the Perfect Cauliflower Casserole
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Customization: Feel free to add other ingredients to enhance the flavor of the casserole. Chopped onions or garlic can bring an extra layer of taste, or you can even incorporate bacon or ham for a meaty touch.
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Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
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For a Crispy Top: For an even crispier topping, add a few extra breadcrumbs and a bit more butter before baking.
This Cauliflower Casserole is not only a great way to make use of simple ingredients like cauliflower and potatoes, but it also delivers on flavor and texture, ensuring your guests will ask for seconds. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a golden, crispy top. Try this recipe next time you’re looking for a satisfying, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and delicious!
