Name: Everything Bagel Cauliflower Casserole
Ingredients: 4 large heads cauliflower, cored and chopped into florets; 6 tbsp unsalted butter; 10 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; 1 cup whole wheat or white whole wheat flour (all-purpose works too); 3–4 cups skim milk (or any milk of choice); 1 tsp black pepper; 3 cups freshly shredded parmesan cheese; 4 tbsp everything bagel seasoning; 1 tsp Dijon mustard (for a tangy kick); 1 cup cream cheese (for extra creaminess); 1/2 cup chopped scallions or chives; Panko breadcrumbs + olive oil for crunchy topping; Crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Description

This casserole takes humble cauliflower and transforms it into a garlicky, cheesy, crunchy delight. Inspired by everything bagels, it combines tender florets, a creamy parmesan sauce, and the iconic bagel seasoning for a dish that’s perfect as a side or a main. Simple enough for weeknights, special enough for holidays.

Ingredients

Scale

Casserole:

4 large heads cauliflower, cored and chopped into florets
6 tbsp unsalted butter
10 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 cup whole wheat or white whole wheat flour (all-purpose works too)
3–4 cups skim milk (or any milk of choice)
1 tsp black pepper
3 cups freshly shredded parmesan cheese
4 tbsp everything bagel seasoning

Optional Add-Ins:

1 tsp Dijon mustard (for a tangy kick)
1 cup cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
1/2 cup chopped scallions or chives
Panko breadcrumbs + olive oil for crunchy topping
Crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

Preheat Oven: 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish or two 9×13 pans.
Cook Cauliflower: Steam or boil florets until just fork-tender (5–7 min). Drain thoroughly and pat dry.
Make Garlic Butter Base: Melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and cook 1–2 min until fragrant and translucent.
Create Roux: Whisk in flour, cooking 1 min to remove raw taste.
Make Cream Sauce: Gradually whisk in milk, 1 cup at a time, until smooth. Cook 5–8 min until thickened.
Add Cheese & Seasoning: Reduce heat to low. Stir in black pepper, parmesan, and optional add-ins like cream cheese or Dijon.
Combine with Cauliflower: Remove from heat, fold in cauliflower and half the everything bagel seasoning.
Top & Bake: Transfer to casserole dish. Sprinkle remaining bagel seasoning and optional panko topping. Bake 20–25 min until bubbly and golden. Let cool 10 min before serving.

Notes

Avoid Watery Casserole: Drain and dry cauliflower thoroughly.
Smooth Sauce: Add milk slowly and whisk constantly; use an immersion blender if needed.
Make Ahead: Assemble, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake (add 5–10 min if baking cold).
DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning: Mix 2 tbsp dried minced onion, 2 tbsp dried minced garlic, 1 tbsp white sesame seeds, 1 tbsp black sesame seeds, 1 tbsp poppy seeds, 2 tsp flaky sea salt.

Nutrition

Calories: ~210 Cal
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 12g