Cheddar bacon cauliflower mash bake

Cheddar Bacon Cauliflower Mash Bake is a comforting, lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, featuring a creamy cauliflower base mixed with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese. Baked until bubbly, it makes a delicious side dish for any meal.

30 Dec 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

16 oz bacon
6.50 cups cauliflower
3 garlic cloves
1/3 cup dried milk
1 tbsp salted butter
3/4 tsp salt
1 dash black pepper
2 tbsp chives
1/4 cup cheddar cheese

The Cheddar Bacon Cauliflower Mash Bake is a delicious and lower-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This comforting dish features a savory blend of cauliflower, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish and set it aside.

2. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it's crispy. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
- Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

3. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- While the bacon is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes or until the cauliflower is fork-tender.
- Drain the cauliflower well and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

4. Mash the Cauliflower:
- Add minced garlic, dried milk powder, butter, salt, and black pepper to the cooked cauliflower.
- Using an immersion blender or a potato masher, mash the mixture until smooth and creamy.

5. Combine Ingredients:
- Gently fold most of the crumbled bacon (reserving some for topping) and chopped chives into the mashed cauliflower mixture.

6. Assemble the Bake:
- Transfer the cauliflower mash mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Add the remaining crumbled bacon on top of the cheese.

7. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with additional chopped chives if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!

This Cheddar Bacon Cauliflower Mash Bake is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a rich and satisfying dish. Serve it as a side with your favorite main course or enjoy it on its own.

Cheddar bacon cauliflower mash bake FAQ:

What is the baking time for the Cheddar Bacon Cauliflower Mash Bake?

Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

How do I know when the cauliflower is done cooking?

The cauliflower is done when it is fork-tender, which usually takes about 10 minutes of boiling. Ensure it is soft enough to mash easily.

Can I store leftovers, and if so, how?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

What alternatives can I use for the dried milk in this recipe?

You can substitute dried milk with an equal amount of regular milk or unsweetened almond milk. If using liquid, reduce the other liquids slightly if necessary.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?

You can substitute with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a dairy-free cheese option if you prefer a non-dairy version.

Tips:

- For a smoother mash, ensure the cauliflower is cooked until it is very tender before mashing it.

- Consider using a food processor or immersion blender to achieve a creamy texture.

- If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, you can add more cheddar cheese or use a combination of cheeses such as Gruyère or Parmesan.

- For an extra crispy topping, broil the dish for a few minutes at the end of baking.

- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 710kcal
Protein 50g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 3.58g
Sugar 13g
Fat 45g

Cheddar bacon cauliflower mash bake