Prep the oven and dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Par-cook the cauliflower: Steam or microwave the florets until just fork-tender, about 4–6 minutes.
Drain well and pat dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps prevent a watery bake.
Warm the buffalo chicken: In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken with half the buffalo sauce (1/2 cup). Set aside.
Make the Alfredo base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Whisk in cheeses: Add the cream cheese and whisk until smooth. Stir in Parmesan until melted and the sauce is velvety.
Season the sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust.
You want it slightly salty to balance the cauliflower.
Buffalo meets Alfredo: Stir the remaining 1/2 cup buffalo sauce into the Alfredo. The sauce should be creamy-orange and pourable. If it’s too thick, splash in a tablespoon or two of cream.
Combine the bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower, buffalo chicken, and half of the mozzarella.
Pour the buffalo Alfredo sauce over the top and fold gently to coat everything.
Spread and top: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly over the surface.
Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes until bubbling at the edges and the cheese is melted.
Broil for color (optional): Broil 1–2 minutes to brown the top slightly. Watch closely.
Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes to set.
Garnish with parsley or chives and a few blue cheese crumbles, if you like.
Serve: Scoop into bowls and enjoy as is, or with a crisp side salad.