Cajun Cauliflower Casserole

The Cajun Cauliflower Casserole is a dish that takes me back to my childhood kitchen, where the aroma of spices danced through the air and filled our home with warmth. Growing up, my family had a special bond over food, and this casserole became a staple at our dinner table. I remember the first time I tried it; the rich flavors of Cajun seasoning mingled with the creamy texture of the cauliflower created a comforting, satisfying meal. Now, as an adult, I find joy in recreating this dish for my friends and family. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a tradition that brings people together.

Every bite of this Cajun Cauliflower Casserole is like a warm hug, reminding me of home and heartwarming gatherings. The combination of fresh vegetables, spices, and the hearty base of cauliflower makes it a perfect dish for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to gatherings with friends. I love serving it with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. If you’ve never made a casserole like this before, let me assure you, it’s simple, yet the end result is impressive and incredibly flavorful!

This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies. Cauliflower is so versatile; it absorbs flavors beautifully while providing a satisfying bite. The touch of Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of kick, making it an exciting option for anyone looking to spice up their meal plan. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings!

What You’ll Need for Cajun Cauliflower Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients for the Cajun Cauliflower Casserole is part of the fun! Each component is essential in creating a harmonious, flavorful dish. The key players here are the cauliflower, which serves as the base, and the Cajun seasoning, which adds that signature kick. Together, they create a satisfying dish that’s not only delicious but also wholesome.

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus more for oiling the pan: This oil is a healthy fat that helps sauté the vegetables and adds richness.
• 1 1/2 cups onion roughly chopped, about half a large onion: Onions add sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon garlic minced: Garlic provides an aromatic foundation and enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning: This spice blend adds heat and a unique taste profile.
• 1 1/2 lbs cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets, about 7 cups: Cauliflower is the star of the dish, providing a healthy and filling base.
• 2 cans whole tomatoes (14 1/2 ounces each): These tomatoes add moisture and a slight sweetness.
• 1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth: This broth adds flavor and helps to create a saucy consistency.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Tomato paste enriches the sauce and enhances the tomato flavor.
• 2 bay leaves: Bay leaves infuse a subtle herbal flavor into the casserole.
• 2 andouille sausage links thinly sliced: This sausage adds a smoky and spicy element to the dish.
• 1 red pepper chopped: Red peppers bring sweetness and color.
• 1 cup shredded chicken firmly packed: Chicken adds protein and heartiness.
• 4 ounces raw fresh shrimp or thawed frozen shrimp: Shrimp gives a delightful seafood flavor.
• 1/2 cup celery thinly sliced: Celery adds crunch and freshness.
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Salt enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Generous pinch of pepper: Pepper adds a subtle heat.
• 1 whole egg: The egg helps bind the casserole together.
• 1 egg white: The egg white lightens the texture of the casserole.
• Minced parsley for garnish: Parsley adds a fresh touch.
• Sliced green onion for garnish: Green onion adds flavor and color.

Recipe Directions for Cajun Cauliflower Casserole

Making the Cajun Cauliflower Casserole is a wonderful experience, as the house fills with the aromas of sautéed vegetables and spices. Follow these steps to create a dish that is sure to impress!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F degrees. Grab an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan and rub the inside with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a large pan over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the onions, garlic, and Cajun seasoning. Sauté for about one minute until the onions are lightly golden brown and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Next, add the cauliflower florets to the pan. Stir them well, ensuring that each piece is coated in the aromatic mixture. The cauliflower should start to soften slightly, about 5 minutes.
4. Now it’s time to add the cans of whole tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Stir everything together until well mixed. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Cover and allow it to simmer for about 15 to 18 minutes until the cauliflower is fork-tender.
5. After simmering, uncover the pan and increase the heat to high. Allow the mixture to boil until most of the liquid evaporates, approximately 8 to 9 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent it from burning.
6. Transfer the mixture to a large food processor and blend until smooth and creamy. Once blended, scrape the mixture into a large bowl and place it in the freezer for a few minutes to chill while you prepare the sausage.
7. During this time, heat a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until golden brown, flipping once. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb the excess grease.
8. Once the cauliflower mixture has cooled slightly, take it out of the freezer. Stir in the cooked sausage, red peppers, shredded chicken, shrimp, celery, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
9. In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the whole egg and egg white. Add the beaten eggs to the cauliflower mixture and stir until evenly incorporated.
10. Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Cover the pan with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, uncover and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is lightly browned and the casserole is heated through.
11. Once done, let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and green onion before serving immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips about Cajun Cauliflower Casserole

Every chef knows that the little details can make a big difference. Here are some expert tips to enhance your Cajun Cauliflower Casserole experience:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the casserole’s texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it for up to three months. Bake it directly from the freezer, adding extra time if needed.
• Pairing: This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside some roasted vegetables.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or spinach. You can also adjust the level of Cajun seasoning to suit your preference.
• Garnishing: Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh herbs like parsley and green onions add brightness to the final dish.

Best Served With

The Cajun Cauliflower Casserole is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

• Crusty Bread: Serve it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Salad: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions like Thanksgiving.
• Seasonal Pairing: It’s a wonderful dish for fall, utilizing seasonal vegetables and rich flavors that resonate with autumn comfort.
• Leftover Options: Use leftovers as a filling for wraps or as a topping for baked potatoes for a quick lunch.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Cajun Cauliflower Casserole is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and healthy ingredients into one comforting meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. It’s not just about food; it’s about making memories together. Enjoy every bite!

Cajun Cauliflower Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, Cajun Cauliflower Casserole offers a creamy, flavorful twist on classic casseroles. It's packed with fresh vegetables and spices, making it a perfect easy weeknight dinner. Gather your family around the table and enjoy this delicious dish tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups onion roughly chopped, about half a large onion
• 1 tablespoon garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 1/2 lbs cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets, about 7 cups
• 2 cans whole tomatoes (14 1/2 ounces each)
• 1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 andouille sausage links thinly sliced
• 1 red pepper chopped
• 1 cup shredded chicken firmly packed
• 4 ounces raw fresh shrimp or thawed frozen shrimp
• 1/2 cup celery thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• Generous pinch pepper
• 1 whole egg
• 1 egg white
• minced parsley for garnish
• sliced green onion for garnish

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet
• Food Processor
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan
• Large Pot

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F degrees. Grab an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan and rub the inside with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a large pan over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the onions, garlic, and Cajun seasoning. Sauté for about one minute until the onions are lightly golden brown and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Next, add the cauliflower florets to the pan. Stir them well, ensuring that each piece is coated in the aromatic mixture. The cauliflower should start to soften slightly, about 5 minutes.
4. Now it’s time to add the cans of whole tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Stir everything together until well mixed. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Cover and allow it to simmer for about 15 to 18 minutes until the cauliflower is fork-tender.
5. After simmering, uncover the pan and increase the heat to high. Allow the mixture to boil until most of the liquid evaporates, approximately 8 to 9 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent it from burning.
6. Transfer the mixture to a large food processor and blend until smooth and creamy. Once blended, scrape the mixture into a large bowl and place it in the freezer for a few minutes to chill while you prepare the sausage.
7. During this time, heat a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until golden brown, flipping once. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb the excess grease.
8. Once the cauliflower mixture has cooled slightly, take it out of the freezer. Stir in the cooked sausage, red peppers, shredded chicken, shrimp, celery, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
9. In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the whole egg and egg white. Add the beaten eggs to the cauliflower mixture and stir until evenly incorporated.
10. Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Cover the pan with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, uncover and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is lightly browned and the casserole is heated through.
11. Once done, let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and green onion before serving immediately. Enjoy!

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Meet Sadie Mitchell

The Mood Catcher I’m our lead photographer, but my camera is just another tool in the kitchen, right next to my knife and whisk! I am obsessed with capturing the feeling of a meal the steam rising off a bowl or the golden light on a loaf of bread. I cook and style every shoot with the team, ensuring that the photo tells you exactly how cozy and delicious the food will taste.