Roasted Cauliflower, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Casserole

Oh wow, you guys, this roasted cauliflower, tomato, and goat cheese casserole is pure comfort food. It’s warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor. And the best part? It’s super easy to make!

I love how the cauliflower gets all crispy and golden while the tomatoes turn juicy and sweet. And when you mix that with creamy, tangy goat cheese? Ohhh, it’s a flavor explosion in every bite.

This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, a potluck, or even meal prep. It’s healthy but still tastes totally indulgent. And trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s make some magic happen. You’re gonna love how simple and delicious this casserole is. Ready? Let’s go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple, Everyday Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
• Full of Flavor: A mix of roasted and spiced ingredients gives it a bold, satisfying taste.
• Creamy and Comforting: Goat cheese adds a luscious texture that blends beautifully with the tomatoes.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers for an easy meal.
• Great for Any Occasion: Works as a main dish or a flavorful side for family dinners and gatherings.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings:

• Serves 4 as a main dish, or 6 as a side.

Difficulty Level:

• Beginner-friendly, but roasting cauliflower to perfection requires a little attention.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you begin, gather these essential tools:

• Large Baking Sheet: For roasting the cauliflower.
• Large Skillet: To prepare the tomato sauce.
• Mixing Bowls: For tossing the cauliflower with seasonings.
• Oven-Safe Casserole Dish: For baking everything together.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: To prep the vegetables.
• Whisk or Fork: To beat the eggs.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring the sauce.

Key Ingredients and Their Role

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor in this dish.

• Cauliflower: Roasting brings out its natural sweetness and creates a slightly crisp texture.
• Olive Oil: Enhances the caramelization of the cauliflower while keeping it moist.
• Sea Salt & Ground Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and enhance the overall taste.
• Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
• Garlic: Brings a savory, aromatic quality that complements the tomatoes and spices.
• Thyme: Provides an earthy, slightly floral note that pairs well with roasted vegetables.
• Diced Tomatoes: The base of the sauce, giving the casserole a rich, slightly tangy depth.
• Ground Coriander: A warm, citrusy spice that enhances the tomato sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a mild heat that balances the creaminess of the goat cheese.
• Ground Cinnamon: A hint of warmth that subtly enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together, creating a cohesive texture.
• Goat Cheese: Creamy, tangy, and slightly sharp, bringing a luxurious contrast to the roasted cauliflower.
• Parsley: Freshens up the dish and adds a pop of color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and place them in a mixing bowl.
3. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Spread the cauliflower out in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring the pieces aren’t overcrowded.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crisp at the edges.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. While the cauliflower roasts, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), thyme, ground coriander, red pepper flakes, and cinnamon. Stir well to combine.
5. Let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) after roasting the cauliflower.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
3. Add the roasted cauliflower to the bowl with the eggs and toss gently to coat.
4. Grease a medium-sized oven-safe casserole dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
5. Spread half of the tomato sauce in the bottom of the dish.
6. Layer half of the roasted cauliflower over the sauce.
7. Sprinkle with half of the crumbled goat cheese.
8. Repeat the layers: remaining tomato sauce, then the rest of the cauliflower, and finally, the remaining goat cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to slightly brown.
3. Once done, remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
4. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.

How to Serve Roasted Cauliflower, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Casserole

This casserole is versatile and pairs well with different sides or proteins. Here are some serving ideas:

• As a Main Dish: Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
• As a Side Dish: Pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted lamb, or pan-seared fish.
• Topped with Extras: Add toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spread the cauliflower in a single layer for even roasting.
• Use High-Quality Goat Cheese: A creamy, tangy goat cheese will melt beautifully into the casserole.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Increase red pepper flakes for extra heat, or omit them for a milder dish.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	220-250
Protein	10g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fiber	5g
Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	5g
Sodium	400mg

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.)

AQs

Can I Use a Different Cheese?

Yes! If you don’t have goat cheese, try feta, ricotta, or even shredded mozzarella for a different flavor.

Is This Recipe Low-Carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in fiber, making it a great option for those watching their carb intake.

Can I Add Protein?

Absolutely! Try mixing in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chickpeas for extra protein.

Conclusion

This roasted cauliflower casserole is a flavorful, wholesome dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, its creamy, roasted, and tangy flavors will keep you coming back for more.