Undoubtedly, loaded baked potatoes are nothing short of amazing. Between the melty cheese, tangy bite of sour cream, crumbles of bacon, and sprinkling of green onions, somehow it always seems to hit the spot. While traditional loaded baked potatoes are definitely a classic, this loaded baked cauli-tato recipe takes it up a level by adding a healthy twist.
Cauliflower is an excellent low carb veggie, so using it in place of a potato lets you keep all the delicious flavor you’re used to, without all the heaviness and calories. Altogether, this recipe will remind you so much of the comfort meal you know and love, you won’t even miss the potato.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lb. cauliflower head, cut into florets
- 6 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 oz cream cheese
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 ½ tsp ranch seasoning mix
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- 5 slices bacon, crumbled
- Olive oil
- Sour cream (optional)
Directions:
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 425°. Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. However, you can always use a silicone baking mat instead. Place the cauliflower florets on the pan and then toss with a few tablespoons of olive oil. Put the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cauliflower is slightly tender and browned in some areas.
Step 2
While the cauliflower is in the oven, you’ll want to make the cheese sauce. Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Then, add the butter, green onions, and garlic cloves. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
Step 3
Next, add in the cream cheese, heavy cream, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the butter, onions, and garlic. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook for a few minutes until the cream cheese has fully melted. Finally, stir in the majority of the cheddar cheese, leaving about ½ cup for the end.
Step 4
Once the cauliflower is roasted, toss it in the skillet with the cheese sauce and mix until evenly coated. Then, transfer everything into a baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Step 5
Finally, remove the dish from the oven and scoop out the baked cauliflower into your bowls. Top with a dollop or two of sour cream, the crumbles of bacon, and even some extra green onions if you want. Last but not least, serve warm and enjoy!
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