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Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Easy and Tasty Recipe

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- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided - 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1/2 cup sour cream - 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers for extra crunch) - 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing - Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish You can swap ingredients if needed. Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. For cream cheese, any soft cheese works. Want a lighter dish? Try using low-fat cheeses. You can also replace cheddar with mozzarella for a milder taste. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Gather these tools before you start cooking: - Large pot for steaming cauliflower - Casserole dish for baking - Mixing bowls for combining ingredients - Spatula or whisk for mixing - Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy - Knife and cutting board for prepping veggies - Oven mitts to handle the hot dish These ingredients and tools will help you create a rich and tasty Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Get ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy delight! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly. Next, grease a large casserole dish with olive oil. This step helps prevent sticking. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and steam for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them tender but not mushy. Drain the florets and set them aside. Now, grab a mixing bowl. Combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This mixture will coat your cauliflower. Gently fold in the drained florets. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix well. Transfer the creamy cauliflower mixture into your greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly to ensure it cooks well. Top this mixture with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure the breadcrumbs are fully coated. Evenly distribute this crumb mixture over the cheese layer. This creates a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for melted and bubbly cheese, along with golden brown breadcrumbs. This is when your casserole reaches perfection. Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This short wait helps the dish set. Just before you serve, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a nice touch of color and freshness. Enjoy your cheesy cauliflower casserole warm, either as a side or a main dish with a fresh salad. To make your cheesy cauliflower casserole even tastier, try these simple ideas: - Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky touch. - Mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for depth. - Squeeze in a bit of lemon juice for brightness. - Try sautéing the garlic in olive oil before mixing it in for a richer taste. Cooking time can change based on your oven and the size of your cauliflower pieces. If you like your cauliflower tender but not mushy, check it around 20 minutes. If you want a crispier topping, leave it in for an extra 5 minutes. Always look for golden breadcrumbs and bubbly cheese. Serve the casserole hot for the best experience. It pairs well with grilled chicken or steak. You can also enjoy it as a main dish with a fresh salad on the side. For a fun twist, offer extra toppings like crispy bacon or hot sauce for guests to add as they like. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Cauliflower: Steam the cauliflower until just fork-tender to maintain a slight crunch and prevent it from becoming mushy in the casserole. Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, to create your unique flavor profile. Breadcrumb Substitutes: For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for a quick and easy side dish. {{image_4}} If you want to cut carbs, try using broccoli instead of cauliflower. Broccoli has a nice crunch and works well with cheese. You can also skip the breadcrumbs. Instead, top the casserole with crushed pork rinds for a low-carb crunch. This option adds flavor without the extra carbs. To make your casserole even tastier, consider adding more ingredients. Chopped cooked bacon gives a smoky taste. You can also add sautéed onions or bell peppers for sweetness. For a spicy kick, try adding diced jalapeños. Each mix-in adds a new layer of flavor to your dish. Cheese lovers will enjoy mixing different types of cheese. Besides cheddar, try using mozzarella for extra stretch. Gouda adds a rich, buttery flavor. For a sharp taste, consider adding blue cheese. Mixing cheeses can make your casserole more exciting and delicious. After cooking your cheesy cauliflower casserole, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it fresh, make sure it’s sealed well to avoid drying out. To freeze the casserole, first, let it cool completely. Then, cut it into portions for easy serving later. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to label each bag with the date! When you’re ready to enjoy your casserole, take it out of the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes if refrigerated, or 30-40 minutes if frozen. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to get that crispy top back. Enjoy your tasty dish again! Yes, you can make Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole ahead. You can prepare the dish a day before. Just follow the steps up to baking. Cover the casserole and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. To keep the casserole from being watery, be sure to drain the cauliflower well. After steaming, let it cool and drain any excess water. You can also use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out moisture. This helps keep the dish creamy, not runny. Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole pairs well with many dishes. You can serve it as a side with chicken or fish. It also goes great with a fresh salad. For a cozy meal, enjoy it as a main dish with crusty bread. This blog post covered the main steps for making Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. You learned about the key ingredients and how to substitute them. We explored tools, preparation, cooking tips, and serving advice. I shared flavor ideas and ways to adjust cooking times. You also found storage tips for leftovers and answers to common questions. In conclusion, this recipe can be fun and simple. With these tips, you’ll make a tasty dish everyone will love. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy dish that’s both easy to make and healthy? I’ll show you how to whip up a delicious Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole that will impress your family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a savory meal that is perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe and discover the joy of cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Combination: This casserole combines the creamy richness of cheeses with the subtle nuttiness of cauliflower, making every bite a delightful experience.
  2. Comfort Food Classic: Perfectly cheesy and warm, this dish embodies the essence of comfort food, making it a go-to for family gatherings and cozy nights in.
  3. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is easy enough for even novice cooks to master and impress their guests.
  4. Versatile Serving Options: Whether as a side dish to accompany your favorite protein or as a main course with a salad, this casserole adapts to any meal occasion.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

– 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

– 1/2 cup sour cream

– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers for extra crunch)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing

– Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ingredients if needed. Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. For cream cheese, any soft cheese works. Want a lighter dish? Try using low-fat cheeses. You can also replace cheddar with mozzarella for a milder taste. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Tools and Equipment Needed

Gather these tools before you start cooking:

– Large pot for steaming cauliflower

– Casserole dish for baking

– Mixing bowls for combining ingredients

– Spatula or whisk for mixing

– Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy

– Knife and cutting board for prepping veggies

– Oven mitts to handle the hot dish

These ingredients and tools will help you create a rich and tasty Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Get ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy delight!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly. Next, grease a large casserole dish with olive oil. This step helps prevent sticking. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and steam for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them tender but not mushy. Drain the florets and set them aside.

Now, grab a mixing bowl. Combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This mixture will coat your cauliflower. Gently fold in the drained florets. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix well.

Cooking Process

Transfer the creamy cauliflower mixture into your greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly to ensure it cooks well. Top this mixture with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure the breadcrumbs are fully coated. Evenly distribute this crumb mixture over the cheese layer. This creates a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for melted and bubbly cheese, along with golden brown breadcrumbs. This is when your casserole reaches perfection.

Final Touches and Serving

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This short wait helps the dish set. Just before you serve, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a nice touch of color and freshness. Enjoy your cheesy cauliflower casserole warm, either as a side or a main dish with a fresh salad.

Tips & Tricks

How to Enhance Flavor

To make your cheesy cauliflower casserole even tastier, try these simple ideas:

– Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky touch.

– Mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for depth.

– Squeeze in a bit of lemon juice for brightness.

– Try sautéing the garlic in olive oil before mixing it in for a richer taste.

Cooking Time Adjustments

Cooking time can change based on your oven and the size of your cauliflower pieces. If you like your cauliflower tender but not mushy, check it around 20 minutes. If you want a crispier topping, leave it in for an extra 5 minutes. Always look for golden breadcrumbs and bubbly cheese.

Serving Tips

Serve the casserole hot for the best experience. It pairs well with grilled chicken or steak. You can also enjoy it as a main dish with a fresh salad on the side. For a fun twist, offer extra toppings like crispy bacon or hot sauce for guests to add as they like.

Pro Tips

  1. Perfectly Cooked Cauliflower: Steam the cauliflower until just fork-tender to maintain a slight crunch and prevent it from becoming mushy in the casserole.
  2. Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, to create your unique flavor profile.
  3. Breadcrumb Substitutes: For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
  4. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for a quick and easy side dish.

Variations

Low-Carb Alternatives

If you want to cut carbs, try using broccoli instead of cauliflower. Broccoli has a nice crunch and works well with cheese. You can also skip the breadcrumbs. Instead, top the casserole with crushed pork rinds for a low-carb crunch. This option adds flavor without the extra carbs.

Additional Mix-Ins for Flavor

To make your casserole even tastier, consider adding more ingredients. Chopped cooked bacon gives a smoky taste. You can also add sautéed onions or bell peppers for sweetness. For a spicy kick, try adding diced jalapeños. Each mix-in adds a new layer of flavor to your dish.

Different Cheese Combinations

Cheese lovers will enjoy mixing different types of cheese. Besides cheddar, try using mozzarella for extra stretch. Gouda adds a rich, buttery flavor. For a sharp taste, consider adding blue cheese. Mixing cheeses can make your casserole more exciting and delicious.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After cooking your cheesy cauliflower casserole, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it fresh, make sure it’s sealed well to avoid drying out.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze the casserole, first, let it cool completely. Then, cut it into portions for easy serving later. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to label each bag with the date!

Reheating Recommendations

When you’re ready to enjoy your casserole, take it out of the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes if refrigerated, or 30-40 minutes if frozen. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to get that crispy top back. Enjoy your tasty dish again!

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole ahead. You can prepare the dish a day before. Just follow the steps up to baking. Cover the casserole and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How to ensure the casserole is not watery?

To keep the casserole from being watery, be sure to drain the cauliflower well. After steaming, let it cool and drain any excess water. You can also use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out moisture. This helps keep the dish creamy, not runny.

What to serve with Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole?

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole pairs well with many dishes. You can serve it as a side with chicken or fish. It also goes great with a fresh salad. For a cozy meal, enjoy it as a main dish with crusty bread.

This blog post covered the main steps for making Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. You learned about the key ingredients and how to substitute them. We explored tools, preparation, cooking tips, and serving advice. I shared flavor ideas and ways to adjust cooking times. You also found storage tips for leftovers and answers to common questions.

In conclusion, this recipe can be fun and simple. With these tips, you’ll make a tasty dish everyone will love. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious result

- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided - 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1/2 cup sour cream - 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers for extra crunch) - 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing - Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish You can swap ingredients if needed. Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. For cream cheese, any soft cheese works. Want a lighter dish? Try using low-fat cheeses. You can also replace cheddar with mozzarella for a milder taste. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Gather these tools before you start cooking: - Large pot for steaming cauliflower - Casserole dish for baking - Mixing bowls for combining ingredients - Spatula or whisk for mixing - Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy - Knife and cutting board for prepping veggies - Oven mitts to handle the hot dish These ingredients and tools will help you create a rich and tasty Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Get ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy delight! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly. Next, grease a large casserole dish with olive oil. This step helps prevent sticking. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and steam for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them tender but not mushy. Drain the florets and set them aside. Now, grab a mixing bowl. Combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This mixture will coat your cauliflower. Gently fold in the drained florets. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix well. Transfer the creamy cauliflower mixture into your greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly to ensure it cooks well. Top this mixture with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure the breadcrumbs are fully coated. Evenly distribute this crumb mixture over the cheese layer. This creates a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for melted and bubbly cheese, along with golden brown breadcrumbs. This is when your casserole reaches perfection. Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This short wait helps the dish set. Just before you serve, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a nice touch of color and freshness. Enjoy your cheesy cauliflower casserole warm, either as a side or a main dish with a fresh salad. To make your cheesy cauliflower casserole even tastier, try these simple ideas: - Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky touch. - Mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for depth. - Squeeze in a bit of lemon juice for brightness. - Try sautéing the garlic in olive oil before mixing it in for a richer taste. Cooking time can change based on your oven and the size of your cauliflower pieces. If you like your cauliflower tender but not mushy, check it around 20 minutes. If you want a crispier topping, leave it in for an extra 5 minutes. Always look for golden breadcrumbs and bubbly cheese. Serve the casserole hot for the best experience. It pairs well with grilled chicken or steak. You can also enjoy it as a main dish with a fresh salad on the side. For a fun twist, offer extra toppings like crispy bacon or hot sauce for guests to add as they like. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Cauliflower: Steam the cauliflower until just fork-tender to maintain a slight crunch and prevent it from becoming mushy in the casserole. Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, to create your unique flavor profile. Breadcrumb Substitutes: For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for a quick and easy side dish. {{image_4}} If you want to cut carbs, try using broccoli instead of cauliflower. Broccoli has a nice crunch and works well with cheese. You can also skip the breadcrumbs. Instead, top the casserole with crushed pork rinds for a low-carb crunch. This option adds flavor without the extra carbs. To make your casserole even tastier, consider adding more ingredients. Chopped cooked bacon gives a smoky taste. You can also add sautéed onions or bell peppers for sweetness. For a spicy kick, try adding diced jalapeños. Each mix-in adds a new layer of flavor to your dish. Cheese lovers will enjoy mixing different types of cheese. Besides cheddar, try using mozzarella for extra stretch. Gouda adds a rich, buttery flavor. For a sharp taste, consider adding blue cheese. Mixing cheeses can make your casserole more exciting and delicious. After cooking your cheesy cauliflower casserole, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it fresh, make sure it’s sealed well to avoid drying out. To freeze the casserole, first, let it cool completely. Then, cut it into portions for easy serving later. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to label each bag with the date! When you’re ready to enjoy your casserole, take it out of the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes if refrigerated, or 30-40 minutes if frozen. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to get that crispy top back. Enjoy your tasty dish again! Yes, you can make Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole ahead. You can prepare the dish a day before. Just follow the steps up to baking. Cover the casserole and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. To keep the casserole from being watery, be sure to drain the cauliflower well. After steaming, let it cool and drain any excess water. You can also use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out moisture. This helps keep the dish creamy, not runny. Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole pairs well with many dishes. You can serve it as a side with chicken or fish. It also goes great with a fresh salad. For a cozy meal, enjoy it as a main dish with crusty bread. This blog post covered the main steps for making Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. You learned about the key ingredients and how to substitute them. We explored tools, preparation, cooking tips, and serving advice. I shared flavor ideas and ways to adjust cooking times. You also found storage tips for leftovers and answers to common questions. In conclusion, this recipe can be fun and simple. With these tips, you’ll make a tasty dish everyone will love. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results.

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

A creamy and cheesy cauliflower dish baked to perfection, perfect as a side or main dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 2 sour cream
  • 1 4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers for extra crunch)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
  • for garnish Fresh chopped parsley

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a large casserole dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil and add in the cauliflower florets. Steam the florets for roughly 5-7 minutes, or until they are just fork-tender. Once cooked, drain the cauliflower and set it aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Using a spatula or whisk, blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  • Gently fold the drained cauliflower florets into the cream cheese mixture. Carefully add in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring everything is evenly coated and well combined.
  • Transfer this creamy cauliflower mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly.
  • Top the cauliflower mixture with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor.
  • In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, mixing until the breadcrumbs are fully coated. Evenly distribute this crumb mixture over the cheese layer to create a delicious crunchy topping.
  • Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs to turn a lovely golden brown.
  • Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

Serve warm as a delightful side dish to your favorite protein, or enjoy it as a comforting main dish alongside a fresh salad.
Keyword casserole, cauliflower, cheesy, vegetarian

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