Transform the humble cauliflower into a superb dish with a creamy sauce topped with a bubbling cheese crust. This classic Cauliflower Cheese recipe is perfect for any meal, providing comfort and delicious flavor. Let’s show you how to make this mouth-watering dish!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 head cauliflower
- Pinch of sea salt
- 60 grams of butter
- 60 grams of flour
- 500 ml of milk
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 200 grams of cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- Dash of black pepper
Instructions:
Preparing the Cauliflower:
- Remove the outer leaves of the cauliflower.
- Cut around the stalk in a circular motion, removing the florets.
- Trim the florets to about equal size.
- Place the florets in a pan of water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil.
- Boil for about 7 minutes.
- Remove the cauliflower and drain it.
Making the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt 60 grams of butter in a pan.
- Add 60 grams of flour and stir to cook out the rawness.
- Gradually add splashes of milk, stirring constantly to build a lump-free sauce.
- Switch to a whisk to make the sauce smooth.
- Add the remainder of the milk and stir until you get a silky smooth sauce.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg and stir through.
- Add a good handful of cheese (e.g., cheddar) and stir into the sauce mixture until it becomes a thick cheese sauce.
Assembling the Cauliflower Cheese Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
- In a baking dish, sprinkle a bit of cheese on the bottom to line it.
- Add the cooked cauliflower florets to the dish.
- Season the cauliflower with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, working it in slightly.
- Dust over the top with a pinch of nutmeg.
Baking:
- Place the cauliflower mixture in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until it is golden brown and bubbling on top.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a hearty vegetarian main with a side salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure cauliflower florets are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcook the cauliflower; it should be tender but not mushy.
- Adjust the amount of cheese according to your taste preference.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cauliflower is low in calories and high in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Cheese provides calcium and protein.
- Milk adds to the nutritional value with vitamin D and additional calcium.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This dish contains no meat products, making it suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free flour and check that the cheese is gluten-free.
- Low-carb: Suitable for low-carb diets when consumed in moderation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare: With a total time of just 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with flavor: The creamy cheese sauce and nutmeg add a deliciously savory taste to the cauliflower.
- Comforting and satisfying: This classic dish offers the warmth and comfort of a home-cooked meal.
- Versatile side dish: Whether you’re serving it with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal, this cauliflower cheese bake is both hearty and delicious.
Conclusion:
Classic Cauliflower Cheese Bake is a flavorful, comforting dish that can complement any meal. Its creamy sauce and bubbly cheese crust make it a family favorite. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and rich flavors of this delicious cauliflower dish! Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more tasty recipes. Enjoy!