Introduction:
Baked Cauliflower Cheese is a comforting, cheesy side dish that pairs well with almost any meal. The soft cauliflower florets are smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, baked until golden and bubbly, creating a rich and savory treat. It’s a great alternative to traditional macaroni and cheese, offering a lower-carb and vegetable-packed option. Whether served for a cozy family dinner or as a side at a holiday gathering, it’s sure to please the crowd.
Ingredients:
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Blanch the cauliflower: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, just until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
Add the cheese:
Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until smooth. Season with Dijon mustard (optional), garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Combine cauliflower and sauce: Place the cooked cauliflower in a baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over the top, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh herbs (optional), serve hot, and enjoy!
Description
Baked Cauliflower Cheese is a rich, indulgent dish that transforms cauliflower into a decadent, cheesy side. The tender cauliflower provides a slight bite, while the creamy cheese sauce envelops every piece with cheesy goodness. The contrast between the crisp, golden top and the creamy interior creates a perfect balance of textures. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit various dietary preferences, and its warm, comforting nature makes it a perfect choice for family meals and gatherings.
Tips
Make ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Simply assemble the cauliflower and cheese sauce, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Allow extra time for baking if chilled.
Cheese variations: Try mixing up the cheese blend. Gruyère, mozzarella, or gouda would all make wonderful alternatives to cheddar.
Boost the flavor: Add cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or roasted garlic to the cheese sauce for added depth of flavor.
Crispy topping: For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs (preferably panko) mixed with a little melted butter on top before baking.
For a low-carb version: This dish is already low-carb, but you can also use cauliflower rice instead of whole florets for an even softer, mash-like texture.
Variations
Vegan Baked Cauliflower Cheese: Substitute the butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter, use almond or oat milk, and replace the cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
Baked Cauliflower with Ham: Stir in some cooked ham chunks for a more hearty, meal-like version.
Cheesy Cauliflower Bake with Mustard Seeds: Add a teaspoon of mustard seeds to the sauce for a subtle tang and extra flavor complexity.
Correction
Ensure you do not overcook the cauliflower during blanching. It should be just tender but still firm, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooking it beforehand will lead to mushy cauliflower.
If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy!
Baked Cauliflower Cheese is the perfect comfort food, offering a deliciously creamy, cheesy experience. Enjoy this dish as a side to roasted meats, a vegetarian main, or simply as a warm and satisfying snack. Pair it with a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the dish, and savor every bite!