Description
Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bold Tex-Mex flavor, this Queso Cauliflower Bake is the perfect comfort food with a healthy twist. Tender roasted cauliflower is smothered in a homemade queso-style cheese sauce, then baked until bubbly and golden. Whether served as a main dish, side, or game-day snack, this recipe delivers serious flavor without the heaviness of traditional queso dips.
Love cheesy bakes like this? Subscribe now to get more low-carb, veggie-forward comfort recipes sent straight to your inbox!
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Base:
• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 6 cups)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
For the Queso Sauce:
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (or use cornstarch for gluten-free)
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
• ¼ tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
• Sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
• Chopped cilantro
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Hot sauce or salsa drizzle
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, until golden and tender.
Remove and set aside. Lower oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Make the Queso Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook 2–3 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic and flour, whisking to make a roux. Cook 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
Stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Reduce heat to low and stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
Place roasted cauliflower in a lightly greased casserole dish.
Pour the queso sauce over the cauliflower and gently toss to coat evenly.
Add optional toppings like sliced jalapeños or extra cheese on top if desired.
Step 4: Bake It
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
For extra crispness, broil for 1–2 minutes—watch carefully!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
Top with chopped cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor and texture.
Serve hot as a main dish or side.
Notes
Roast for Flavor – Roasting the cauliflower adds depth and prevents sogginess.
Use Fresh Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese can be grainy; shred your own for smooth sauce.
Add Protein – Mix in cooked shredded chicken, black beans, or ground turkey for a full meal.
Make It Spicy – Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne to the queso.
Make Ahead – Assemble, cover, and refrigerate before baking for a stress-free meal later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex Inspired