If you love cozy, comforting dishes that bring together vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, then this Roasted Cauliflower, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Casserole Recipe is going to become one of your new favorites. With tender roasted cauliflower slices, a warmly spiced tomato sauce, and the creamy tang of goat cheese baked to perfection, every bite feels like a little celebration of taste and texture. It’s a wonderful vegetarian casserole that’s both hearty and elegant enough for any occasion, making it ideal whether you’re serving family or impressing guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Roasted Cauliflower, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Casserole Recipe is built on simple, fresh ingredients that each bring their unique charm to the dish. From the earthy cauliflower to the sharp, creamy goat cheese, every element contributes essential flavor, texture, and color, making this casserole both satisfying and visually inviting.
- Cauliflower: The star vegetable, roasted to develop a nutty, caramelized flavor and tender texture.
- Olive oil: Helps to roast the cauliflower perfectly and sauté the aromatics, adding richness.
- Sea salt: Enhances natural flavors without overwhelming the dish.
- Ground pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
- Onion: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic: Adds fragrant warmth and an irresistible aroma.
- Thyme: Infuses the dish with a fresh herbal note.
- Diced tomatoes: Forms the heart of the savory sauce, tender and slightly tangy.
- Ground coriander: Offers a subtle citrus undertone for complexity.
- Red pepper flakes: Give a faint kick that wakes up the palate.
- Ground cinnamon: A pinch provides unexpected warmth that enhances the tomato sauce.
- Eggs: Bind the casserole together and create a luscious, soft texture.
- Goat cheese: Creamy, tangy, and crumbly, it tops and enriches the whole casserole.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish and a pop of green color.
How to Make Roasted Cauliflower, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C) and lining a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Cut the cauliflower head into ⅓-inch thick slices to ensure they roast evenly and hold their shape in the casserole. Toss the cauliflower slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, sea salt, and a pinch of pepper, then spread them out on the baking sheet. Roast for about 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the edges turn golden brown and the florets get tender, setting a flavorful foundation for your casserole.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
While the cauliflower roasts, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion with a pinch of salt to soften it gently for about 5 minutes. Once translucent and fragrant, stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for just 30 seconds to release their aromatic oils without browning them, building a savory base for the tomato sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Next, pour the diced tomatoes into the skillet with the aromatics. Stir in ground coriander, red pepper flakes, ground cinnamon, alongside salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and let it cook on low heat for around 15 minutes. This slow melding of spices and tomatoes results in a richly flavored sauce that beautifully complements the roasted cauliflower’s nuttiness.
Step 4: Combine and Prepare for Baking
Once the cauliflower and tomato sauce are ready, combine them in a large bowl. Transfer this vibrant mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. In a separate small bowl, beat the eggs and crumbled goat cheese together until smooth and well-mixed. Pour this creamy mixture over the cauliflower and tomato base, ensuring it seeps into every nook to create a luscious casserole top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven set at 450°F and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and slightly browned, with the cheese melted and set. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving; this helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice. This final step results in a dish that’s both visually inviting and irresistibly tasty.
How to Serve Roasted Cauliflower, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is the perfect garnish for this casserole. It adds a burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness of the goat cheese. You can also sprinkle a few extra crumbles of goat cheese on top just before serving for a beautiful and tasty touch.
Side Dishes
This Roasted Cauliflower, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or a light grain like quinoa or couscous. A simple lemon vinaigrette on the side provides a refreshing contrast, while crusty bread allows you to scoop up every last bit of that delicious tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch at dinner parties. You can also layer in some sautéed mushrooms or add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top for crunch. Experimenting with colorful heirloom tomatoes in the sauce can elevate the visual appeal, making the dish truly shine on the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this Roasted Cauliflower, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, making for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
This casserole also freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. For best quality, consume within 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for even reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole uncovered in the oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This method keeps the top deliciously crisp. Alternatively, microwaving works for a quick fix but may soften the topping slightly.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of goat cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese gives this casserole its signature tangy creaminess, you can substitute with feta for a similar flavor or ricotta for a milder, creamier texture. Just keep the quantity similar to maintain the dish’s balance.
Is this casserole suitable for vegans?
This recipe includes eggs and goat cheese, so it is not vegan as written. However, you could try using vegan cheese alternatives and a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute to recreate the texture and richness for a vegan-friendly version.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to the point of adding the egg and goat cheese mixture. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, then add the topping and bake just before serving for fresh baked goodness.
What if I don’t have fresh thyme on hand?
Dried thyme works perfectly in this recipe. Use about one-third of the amount called for fresh thyme, as dried herbs are more concentrated. You can also experiment with herbs like oregano or rosemary for slightly different flavor profiles.
How spicy is this casserole?
The casserole has a gentle warmth from the red pepper flakes, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference or omit them entirely for a milder dish.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Cauliflower, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Casserole Recipe is a delicious way to celebrate fresh, wholesome ingredients with bold, comforting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Don’t wait to try it out and enjoy the cozy, savory goodness that comes straight from your oven!
Print
Roasted Cauliflower, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and hearty roasted cauliflower, tomato, and goat cheese casserole featuring tender roasted cauliflower slices baked with a savory tomato sauce and rich goat cheese topping. This comforting dish combines roasted, sautéed, and baked elements for a perfect vegetarian meal that’s great for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium-size head of cauliflower
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Pantry
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon fine grain sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 (14.5 oz / 411 gr) can diced tomatoes
- ¼ teaspoon ground coriander
- A pinch of red pepper flakes
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
Dairy & Eggs
- 2 large free-range organic eggs (or 3 medium)
- ¾ cup / 3 oz / 85 gr goat cheese, crumbled
Fresh Herbs
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Roast cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. Slice the cauliflower into ⅓-inch thick slices. Toss the slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, sea salt, and ground pepper. Spread them out on the baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning and tenderness.
- Sauté aromatics: While the cauliflower is roasting, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and a pinch of salt, sautéing for about 5 minutes until the onion softens. Add the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant to create a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Simmer sauce: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, ground coriander, red pepper flakes, ground cinnamon, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and let it cook over low heat for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine and prepare for baking: In a large bowl, gently combine the roasted cauliflower slices with the tomato sauce. Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a small bowl, beat the eggs together with the crumbled goat cheese until well combined, and then pour this mixture evenly over the cauliflower and tomato base.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven at 450°F and bake for 30 minutes. The casserole is ready when the top begins to brown and the egg and cheese mixture sets, forming a delicious crust.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of fresh flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Notes
- Use free-range eggs and high-quality goat cheese for best flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, increase the red pepper flakes slightly.
- Cauliflower slices can be thick or thin based on preference, but avoid slicing too thin to prevent mushiness during roasting.
- This dish can be served warm as a main course or paired with a side salad for a complete vegetarian meal.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be gently reheated in the oven.
