03 Jun 2025
Cook time 50 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1 head cauliflower
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
8 oz vienna sausage
1 onion
4 garlic cloves
1 tsp fresh thyme
3 cups canned tomatoes
2/3 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
This Cauliflower and Chicken Sausage Casserole is a delectable and healthy dish that combines the hearty goodness of cauliflower with the savory flavors of chicken sausage. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this casserole is rich in nutrients and easy to prepare. The addition of fresh thyme and parmesan cheese elevates the dish, making it a delightful blend of textures and tastes.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Wash and chop the head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- Fill a large pot with water, add 1 tsp of salt, and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5-7 minutes until just tender but not mushy.
- Drain the cauliflower and set aside.
3. Prepare the Oven Dish:
- Grease a large casserole dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Sausage:
- Slice the Vienna sausage into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
5. Cook the Aromatics:
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Using the same skillet with the residual sausage fat, add the diced onion and cook over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
6. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet with the onions and garlic.
- Add 1 tsp of fresh thyme and mix well.
- Pour in 3 cups of canned tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
- In the prepared casserole dish, layer the bottom with the cooked cauliflower florets.
- Pour the sausage and tomato mixture over the cauliflower, spreading it evenly.
8. Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine 2/3 cup bread crumbs, 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, a dash of salt, and a dash of black pepper.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
10. Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Cauliflower and Chicken Sausage Casserole!
Tips:
- Make sure to cut the cauliflower into uniform-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the casserole.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs.
- To enhance the flavor, you can toast the bread crumbs in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the casserole.
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld together.
Enjoy this warm and comforting Cauliflower and Chicken Sausage Casserole with your loved ones. It's a dish that provides a perfect balance of flavors and nutrition, making it a fantastic option for a wholesome dinner. Don't forget to garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or additional parmesan for an extra touch of flair.