This Cheesy Cauliflower Bake is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. With tender cauliflower smothered in a cheesy sauce and baked to golden perfection, this recipe is a family favorite that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- For the Bake
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets (about 5 cups or 500 g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480 ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- For Topping
- 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup (25 g) shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Cauliflower
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 4-5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Assemble the Bake
- Place the drained cauliflower florets in a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring even coverage.
- Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture and additional cheddar cheese over the top of the cauliflower.
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve
- Let the bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted chicken or grilled steak for a hearty meal.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced plate.
- Enjoy as a vegetarian main dish with crusty bread.
- Add to a holiday spread as a standout side dish.
- Top with crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh cauliflower for the best texture, but frozen can work if thawed and drained.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for a slight kick of heat.
- Substitute with your favorite cheese blends like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Do not overcook the cauliflower; it should be tender but not mushy.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in calcium and protein from the cheese and milk.
- Packed with fiber and antioxidants from the cauliflower.
- Low in carbohydrates, making it keto-friendly.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Gluten-free adaptable
- Low-carb
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Rich, creamy, and cheesy, making it a comfort food classic.
- Versatile and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.
- A nutritious way to enjoy vegetables that even picky eaters will love.
Conclusion
Cheesy Cauliflower Bake is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s simple to make yet impressive to serve. Its creamy cheese sauce and crispy topping create the perfect combination of textures, making it a must-try recipe. Whether as a side or a main, this bake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, just thaw and drain it well before use.
- How can I make it keto-friendly? Use almond flour for the topping instead of breadcrumbs.
- What other vegetables can I add? Broccoli, carrots, or spinach make great additions.
- Can I make it ahead of time? Yes, assemble the bake without the topping, refrigerate, and add the topping before baking.
- What cheese works best? Cheddar is classic, but Gruyère, Swiss, or Fontina are excellent substitutes.
- Can I skip the breadcrumbs? Absolutely! The bake is still delicious with just a cheese topping.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Is it freezer-friendly? Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
- How do I prevent a watery bake? Drain the cauliflower thoroughly after boiling.
- Can I make it dairy-free? Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and coconut oil as substitutes.