Prep the oven and dish: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or oil.
Cook the cauliflower rice: If using fresh riced cauliflower, sauté it in a large skillet over medium heat with 1 tbsp olive oil and a pinch of salt for 6–8 minutes, until moisture cooks off and it’s just tender. If using frozen, thaw first, then sauté 8–10 minutes to evaporate excess water. Dry cauliflower is key for avoiding a soggy bake.
Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter. Cook the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds more, just until fragrant.
Mix the creamy base: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, and cream cheese until smooth. Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper.
Combine everything: Fold the cooked cauliflower rice, sautéed onions and garlic, 3/4 cup cheddar, and 1/4 cup mozzarella into the creamy mixture. If using add-ins like bacon or sausage, fold them in now.
Spread and top: Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Smooth into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella over the top.
Bake: Bake for 22–28 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the top is melted and lightly browned.
Optional broil: For a deeper golden crust, broil on high for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
Rest and serve: Let the bake rest 5–10 minutes to set. Slice into squares and garnish with chives or parsley if you like.