This cheesy baked cauliflower is a flavorful and indulgent side dish that combines the nutty taste of cauliflower with the creamy richness of melted cheese. Roasted until golden and tender, it’s topped with a cheesy blend that gives it an irresistible, comforting flavor. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes or a cheesy casserole to accompany your main dishes, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (180g)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, 30g)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast: Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and tender.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the cauliflower from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for extra crunch.
- Bake Again: Return the cauliflower to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted chicken or grilled meats for a hearty meal.
- Serve as a side dish with a light salad or a vegetable stir-fry.
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on top.
- Serve alongside mashed potatoes or quinoa for a filling dinner.
- Top with extra fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Cooking Tips
- For extra crispiness, broil the cauliflower for 1-2 minutes after the cheese melts.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chili powder for a little heat.
- For a lower-carb version, skip the breadcrumbs and add extra cheese.
- Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Make it ahead by roasting the cauliflower and adding the cheese just before baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cauliflower: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, cauliflower supports digestive health and helps reduce inflammation.
- Cheddar and Parmesan cheese: Packed with calcium, protein, and essential vitamins.
- Olive oil: Contains healthy fats that promote heart health.
- Garlic and paprika: Boost immune function and offer anti-inflammatory properties.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free (if breadcrumbs are omitted)
- Low-Carb
- Vegetarian
- Keto-Friendly (without breadcrumbs)
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the cauliflower before adding cheese for up to 1 month. Bake and add cheese after reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
- Cheesy, crispy, and full of flavor—everyone will love it.
- A great alternative to traditional mashed potatoes or cheesy casseroles.
- Low-carb and keto-friendly, so it fits a variety of dietary needs.
Conclusion This cheesy baked cauliflower is a delicious and satisfying side dish that brings together the richness of cheese with the mild, nutty flavor of cauliflower. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion, whether you’re having a casual dinner or serving guests. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough to complement any main course. Whether you’re craving something cozy or looking for a healthy side, this recipe has it all!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cauliflower works well, but make sure to thaw and drain it before roasting to prevent excess moisture. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to the point of roasting the cauliflower and store it in the fridge. Add cheese and bake when ready to serve. - Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, gouda, or any cheese you prefer. Each will give the dish a unique flavor. - How do I make this recipe vegan?
Substitute the cheese with vegan cheese and use olive oil instead of butter. You can also omit the cheese entirely for a lighter version. - Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe itself is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or chili powder for some heat if desired. - How long does it take to bake this dish?
The total baking time is about 30 minutes: 20-25 minutes for roasting the cauliflower and an additional 5-7 minutes to melt the cheese. - Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can mix in other veggies like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers for a more colorful and nutritious dish. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is gluten-free as long as you omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. - Can I freeze cheesy baked cauliflower?
Yes, you can freeze it before adding cheese and bake with cheese after reheating. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat the leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until hot and bubbly. You can also microwave it for quicker reheating.