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Easy Italian Sausage Cauliflower Bake - Cozy, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 to 2.5 pounds), cut into bite-size florets
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot; casings removed if using links)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (choose a brand you like or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Nonstick spray or a little extra oil for the baking dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a bit of oil.
  2. Roast the cauliflower: Toss the florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Spread on a sheet pan and roast for 18–22 minutes, until edges are slightly browned and pieces are just tender.
  3. Brown the sausage: While the cauliflower roasts, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
  4. Sauté aromatics: Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  5. Build the sauce: Lower heat to medium. Stir in marinara, cream, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Simmer 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Combine: Add the roasted cauliflower to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. If your skillet isn’t large, mix everything in a big bowl.
  7. Layer and top: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan.
  8. Bake: Reduce oven to 400°F (205°C). Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling.
  9. Broil for color (optional): Switch to broil for 1–2 minutes to get a golden top. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  10. Rest and serve: Let the bake rest 5–10 minutes so it sets. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley and serve warm.