Baked Cauliflower Cheese is a comforting and cheesy dish that’s perfect as a side or even as a main course. The cauliflower is tender, and it’s smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, then baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly top. It’s a great way to enjoy your vegetables with a cheesy twist!
Baked Cauliflower Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 large cauliflower (about 1.5 lbs or 700g), cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (120g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup (60g) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs (Panko works well for extra crunch)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Cauliflower:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-6 minutes until just tender but still firm (you don’t want them too soft).
- Drain the cauliflower well and set aside.
3. 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 form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the mustard powder (if using), grated cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Assemble the Baked Cauliflower Cheese:
- Place the drained cauliflower florets into the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Add the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cheesy cauliflower.
6. Bake:
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve:
- Let the baked cauliflower cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use other types of cheese like Gruyère, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites for added depth of flavor.
- Extra Flavor: You can add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
- Make It a Meal: Add cooked bacon bits, ham, or chicken for a heartier dish.
- Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy top, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
This Baked Cauliflower Cheese is a delicious and indulgent way to enjoy cauliflower! The creamy cheese sauce and golden, crispy topping make it a dish that everyone will love. Perfect as a side to a roast dinner or as a main for a comforting vegetarian meal. Enjoy!