🧀 Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Casserole (Mediterranean Style)

🧀 Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Casserole (Mediterranean Style)

Serves: 4–6

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

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Ingredients

🌿 Base:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil or butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

🧀 Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (or ½ cup cream cheese + ½ cup milk for creamier texture)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a medium baking dish.

2. Cook cauliflower:

   • Steam or boil cauliflower florets for 5–7 minutes until just tender.

   • Drain well and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

3. Make the cheese mixture:

   • In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

   • Stir until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble:

   • Add the cauliflower to the cheese mixture and toss gently to coat.

   • Transfer everything into the prepared baking dish.

   • Top with a bit more mozzarella and Parmesan.

5. Bake:

   • Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

6. Finish and serve:

   • Garnish with fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley).

   • Serve warm as a main vegetarian dish or a side for grilled chicken, fish, or lamb.

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💡 Tips

• Add chopped spinach, kale, or sun-dried tomatoes for Mediterranean flair.

• Swap cauliflower for broccoli or zucchini for variation.

• For extra crisp top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.