Short Description
This creamy buffalo chicken cauliflower casserole is a spicy, cheesy, and satisfying low-carb dish featuring tender cauliflower, shredded buffalo chicken, and a creamy ranch-infused sauce. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or game day, this easy casserole is packed with bold flavor and protein!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-carb and keto-friendly – No pasta or rice, just wholesome cauliflower.
- Super creamy and cheesy – A rich buffalo-ranch sauce coats every bite.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- Great for meal prep – Stays fresh and reheats well.
- Perfect for buffalo wing lovers – All the spicy goodness without the mess!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Casserole:
- Cauliflower (cut into small florets)
- Cooked chicken (shredded, rotisserie or boiled)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Buffalo sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- Ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Green onions (for garnish, optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Blue cheese crumbles (for extra tang)
- Cooked bacon bits (for smoky flavor)
- Celery (finely chopped, for crunch)
Directions
- Preheat oven – Set to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Steam the cauliflower – Lightly steam or microwave cauliflower until slightly tender (about 5 minutes). Drain well to remove excess moisture.
- Prepare the buffalo sauce – In a bowl, mix cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the casserole – In a large bowl, toss shredded chicken and cauliflower with the buffalo sauce mixture. Stir in half the shredded cheese.
- Bake – Transfer to the baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with green onions, bacon bits, or blue cheese crumbles, and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Extra spicy – Add diced jalapeños or extra buffalo sauce.
- Mild version – Use less buffalo sauce and more ranch.
- Dairy-free – Use dairy-free cheese and coconut cream instead of cream cheese.
- Loaded version – Add crispy bacon and extra cheese on top.
- Vegetarian alternative – Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or tofu.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes! Thaw and drain well before using to prevent excess moisture.
What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?
Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice, but any buffalo sauce works!
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing?
Yes! Mix Greek yogurt with a little garlic and lemon juice for a healthier alternative.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
A mix of cheddar and mozzarella melts beautifully and adds great flavor.
How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
Drain the cauliflower well and avoid overcooking it before baking.
Can I add pasta instead of cauliflower?
Yes! Cooked penne or macaroni work well if you don’t need a low-carb version.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Just check that your buffalo sauce and ranch dressing are gluten-free.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, then top with cheese before serving.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Serve with celery sticks, a fresh salad, or a side of roasted veggies.
Conclusion
This creamy buffalo chicken cauliflower casserole is the perfect balance of spice, cheesiness, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb meal, an easy dinner idea, or a crowd-pleasing dish for game day, this casserole is a must-try. Enjoy the bold flavors and creamy texture in every bite!
PrintCreamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Low-Carb
Description
This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole is a cheesy, spicy, and delicious low-carb meal perfect for busy weeknights! Made with tender cauliflower, shredded chicken, and a creamy buffalo sauce, it’s keto-friendly, gluten-free, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets (or 4 cups frozen cauliflower)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Cauliflower
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Steam or microwave cauliflower florets until slightly tender (about 5 minutes). Drain well.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Buffalo Sauce
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Add shredded chicken and cauliflower to the bowl and toss until fully coated.
- Stir in ½ cup cheddar cheese and ½ cup mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 4: Bake & Finish
- Sprinkle the top with remaining cheddar cheese and blue cheese (if using).
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
- Serve hot with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.
Notes
- Make It Spicier: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or extra buffalo sauce.
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Low-Carb Friendly: Perfect for keto and gluten-free diets.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.