This Cheesy Baked Cauliflower with Buffalo Sauce is a tasty, spicy, and cheesy dish that makes for an excellent appetizer or side. The combination of Parmesan, garlic, and buffalo sauce adds bold flavors to the tender cauliflower, making it perfect for parties or family dinners.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 1½ pounds), trimmed of leaves
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce or buffalo sauce
- Salt (for boiling water)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Prepare the Cauliflower:
Turn the cauliflower upside down and carefully cut out most of the core, leaving a triangular indentation at the base.
Bring an inch of salted water to a boil in a large pot.
Place the cauliflower right side up in the pot, cover, and steam for 7-10 minutes until it’s tender but still firm. Use a sharp knife to check for doneness.
Remove the cauliflower from the pot and place it on paper towels to cool. - Prepare the Cheesy Coating:
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and hot sauce. Stir until well mixed. - Coat the Cauliflower:
Pat the cooled cauliflower dry with paper towels.
Use your hands to coat the entire cauliflower with the cheesy mixture evenly. - Bake the Cauliflower:
Place the coated cauliflower on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, until the cauliflower is golden brown.
(Optional: Broil for an extra 2-3 minutes for a crispy texture.) - Serve:
Let the cauliflower cool slightly before serving. Serve as finger food or with forks. Enjoy as an appetizer or side dish.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve alongside a fresh green salad, or pair it with grilled meats or fish. It also works great as an appetizer for gatherings or potlucks.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the cauliflower is not over-steamed to maintain its firm texture.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce depending on your spice preference.
- For extra crispiness, broil the cauliflower for 2-3 minutes after baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
Cauliflower is packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. This low-carb dish is a healthier alternative to traditional cheesy appetizers and fits into vegetarian and gluten-free diets.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free
Storage Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Cheesy Baked Cauliflower with Buffalo Sauce is easy to make and packed with bold, cheesy, and spicy flavors. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that works for any occasion, from casual dinners to big gatherings.
FAQ:
- Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, feel free to use other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or a dairy-free alternative. - Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh cauliflower works best, but you can use frozen. Just be sure to thaw and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. - What can I substitute for buffalo sauce?
You can substitute buffalo sauce with sriracha, your favorite hot sauce, or even barbecue sauce for a milder flavor. - Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add veggies like broccoli or Brussels sprouts for a more varied dish. - Is there a dairy-free version?
Use dairy-free butter, mayonnaise, and cheese to make this recipe dairy-free. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can steam the cauliflower and prepare the cheese coating in advance. Simply coat and bake when ready to serve. - Can I make it spicier?
Increase the amount of hot sauce or add a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick. - How do I prevent the cauliflower from getting soggy?
Be sure to steam the cauliflower until tender but firm, and pat it dry before coating. - What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce, fresh salad, or roasted meats. - Can I grill the cauliflower instead of baking?
Yes, you can grill the cauliflower for a smoky flavor. Place the coated cauliflower on the grill and cook until golden and tender.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Baked Cauliflower with Buffalo Sauce is a flavorful and fun dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to be a hit. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a tasty side dish, this recipe delivers a perfect blend of spice and cheesy goodness. Enjoy!