Baked Cauliflower Cheese is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines the goodness of cauliflower with a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a great side dish or even a main for those who love cheesy goodness but want a lighter, vegetable-based option. Here’s a simple recipe for you!
Baked Cauliflower Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2% works best)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for color and flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the cauliflower:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5-6 minutes until they’re just tender but still firm (not mushy). Drain well and set aside.
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Make the cheese sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux (a thickening base for the sauce).
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer (about 4-5 minutes).
- Stir in the mustard powder (if using), garlic powder, salt, pepper, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Assemble the dish:
- Place the drained cauliflower florets into a baking dish (a 9×9-inch dish works well).
- Pour the cheesy sauce evenly over the cauliflower, making sure to coat the florets.
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Top and bake:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the cauliflower and sauce.
- Finish with a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and paprika for a bit of color and extra flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
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Serve:
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips:
- For a crunchy topping: Add some breadcrumbs (preferably panko) on top of the cheese before baking for a nice crisp finish.
- Add some extra veggies: You can mix in cooked broccoli, spinach, or even some sautéed onions for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make it richer: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce for an even creamier texture.
This Baked Cauliflower Cheese is a perfect way to turn a simple vegetable into something truly comforting and indulgent. It pairs well with almost any main dish—whether you’re serving it alongside roasted meats or just enjoying it on its own.
Would you like to add a twist to the recipe, like different cheeses or seasonings?