This Cauliflower Steaks with Mushroom and Mozzarella Topping is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the mild, nutty taste of cauliflower with a rich, creamy mushroom topping. Perfect for a low-carb or gluten-free meal, this recipe features golden, tender cauliflower steaks topped with a savory, cheesy mushroom mixture and baked to perfection. It’s an ideal dish for vegetarians, but anyone will appreciate the depth of flavors and satisfying texture.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 large cauliflower
- Olive oil, for frying
- 15g (0.52oz) butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 500g (17.63oz) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 200g (7.05oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
- 100g (3.52oz) Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Additional mozzarella cheese, for topping
Directions:
- Prepare the Oven and Cauliflower:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Trim the cauliflower into thick “steaks” and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Cauliflower:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Fry the cauliflower steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Transfer the cooked cauliflower steaks to a baking dish.
- Make the Mushroom Topping:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and chopped onion.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender and browned.
- Reduce the heat, then stir in the mozzarella cheese and Greek yogurt (or sour cream). Mix until a creamy sauce forms.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spoon the creamy mushroom mixture over the cauliflower steaks, spreading it evenly.
- Top with additional mozzarella cheese.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve:
- Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve warm and enjoy this delicious, comforting dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Cauliflower steaks provide a hearty and low-carb base, making this dish suitable for various dietary preferences.
- The creamy mushroom topping adds richness and depth, while the mozzarella cheese melts beautifully on top.
- It’s a satisfying, vegetarian-friendly main or side dish that’s both healthy and delicious!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a garlic bread or crusty baguette for extra texture.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor and contrast.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve alongside a bowl of creamy soup for a comforting winter meal.
Cooking Tips:
- For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the mushrooms as they cook.
- If you prefer a crispier cauliflower texture, you can roast the steaks in the oven instead of frying them.
- Use a mix of different cheeses, such as cheddar or parmesan, for a more complex topping.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cauliflower is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins C and K.
- Mushrooms provide a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals like potassium and selenium.
- Greek yogurt or sour cream adds creaminess while also offering a protein boost.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free
- Low-Carb
- Vegetarian
- Nut-Free (if you omit cashews)
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~10g
- Carbs: ~10g
- Fat: ~20g
- Fiber: ~3g
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion:
This Cauliflower Steaks with Mushroom and Mozzarella Topping is a savory and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main course or a side, the combination of roasted cauliflower, creamy mushrooms, and melted cheese is sure to please. It’s an easy yet elegant recipe that’s both healthy and indulgent at the same time, making it a wonderful addition to your weeknight meals or special dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
- Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used, but fresh cauliflower will give you a better texture and flavor.
- Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese?
- Yes, feel free to use any cheese you like, such as cheddar, gouda, or parmesan.
- Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
- You can make it vegan by using dairy-free cheese and a plant-based yogurt.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- What can I serve with this dish?
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
- Can I add protein to this recipe?
- You can add cooked chicken, tofu, or even chickpeas for added protein.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I use a different type of oil?
- Yes, you can use coconut oil, avocado oil, or any oil of your choice for frying.
- How do I make this spicier?
- Add red chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the mushroom mixture for extra heat.
- Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
- Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the mushroom topping for more variety.