This Quick and Easy Cauliflower Cheese is a perfect comfort food that doesn’t require making a roux, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it a wonderful side dish or even a main course. Whether you’re catering to a family dinner or just looking for a quick meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium cauliflower, broken into small florets
- 240 ml (1 cup) double (heavy) cream
- 150 g (1 1/2 cups) mature/strong Cheddar cheese, grated (use a vegetarian version if required)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or gas mark 6.
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a large saucepan of boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they are just tender but still slightly firm. Drain well.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the double cream, grated Cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir well until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Assemble:
- Place the drained cauliflower florets into an ovenproof dish.
- Pour the cream and cheese mixture over the cauliflower, ensuring that all florets are well-coated.
- Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish:
- Remove the dish from the oven.
- Sprinkle the finely chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.
- Serve: Serve hot as a side dish or a main course.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a hearty dinner.
- Enjoy as a vegetarian main dish with some crusty bread.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the cauliflower is well-drained to avoid a watery sauce.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
- Use a mixture of cheeses like Gruyere or Parmesan for a richer taste.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cauliflower: Rich in vitamins C and K, high in fiber, and low in calories.
- Cheese: Good source of protein and calcium.
- Cream: Provides a good amount of fats which are essential for energy.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Use vegetarian Cheddar cheese.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t use flour for the roux.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: No need to make a roux, saving you time.
- Delicious and Creamy: Rich, cheesy sauce that coats the cauliflower perfectly.
- Versatile: Can be served as a side dish or a main course.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and minerals from cauliflower.
Conclusion:
This Quick and Easy Cauliflower Cheese is a delightful dish that’s both simple to make and delicious to eat. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll appreciate the ease and flavor of this comforting classic. Enjoy it as a satisfying meal or a complementary side dish that will surely become a family favorite.