Slow Cooker Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 pounds), chopped into small florets
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

6-8 hours on low in a slow cooker

Difficulty Level:

2 (Simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
5. Season with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
6. Add cauliflower to the slow cooker.
7. Pour the sauce over the cauliflower.
8. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the cauliflower is tender.
9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. In a small bowl, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheeses and bread crumbs.
11. Sprinkle the cheese mixture over the casserole.
12. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1/8 of the casserole):

• Calories: 285
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 490mg
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 18g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and cheesy
• Savory and comforting
• Perfect for a cold winter day or a hearty meal
• Easy to make and can be prepped in advance

User Comments:

• "This casserole is a family favorite! It's so creamy and cheesy, and the cauliflower is a great way to get some veggies in." - Emily
• "Perfect for a crowd, this casserole is always a hit at potlucks and gatherings." - Sarah
• "I love that this dish is so easy to make. I just throw everything in the slow cooker and forget about it until dinner." - John
• "The breadcrumb topping adds a nice crunch and flavor to the casserole." - Mary
• "This casserole is so comforting and satisfying. It's the perfect dish for a cold winter night." - David

Special Precautions and Tips:

• To make ahead, assemble the casserole in the slow cooker and refrigerate overnight. Cook as directed in the morning.
• If you don't have a slow cooker, you can bake the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs.
• Add other vegetables to the casserole, such as diced carrots, peas, or corn.