Creamy Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Cauliflower Cheese is a comforting classic, combining tender cauliflower with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It’s a simple dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a satisfying side or light main course.

Ingredients

• 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 ½ cups grated Cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the cauliflower florets in salted water for about 5–7 minutes until just tender, then drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: To make the cheese sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux without browning. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens.
3. Step 3: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in most of the grated Cheddar cheese, reserving some for topping. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Place the cooked cauliflower in a baking dish, pour the cheese sauce evenly over it, and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
5. Step 5: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of mustard powder or a dash of nutmeg to the cheese sauce.
• Mix in cooked ham or breadcrumbs on top for added texture and taste.
• Use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for a richer sauce.

Storage

Store leftover Cauliflower Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short bursts to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cauliflower works well. Thaw and drain it thoroughly before using to avoid excess water in the dish.

How can I make the cheese sauce smoother?

Stir the sauce continuously while heating and add the milk gradually to prevent lumps. Straining the sauce before adding cheese can also help.

Creamy Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

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A classic comfort food, Cauliflower Cheese features tender cauliflower florets smothered in a rich and creamy cheddar cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a warming vegetarian main.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 600g)

Cheese Sauce

• 50g unsalted butter
• 50g all-purpose flour
• 600ml whole milk
• 200g mature cheddar cheese, grated
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: a pinch of nutmeg

Instructions

1. Cook the Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes until just tender but still firm. Drain well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, making sure it doesn’t brown. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Remove from heat and stir in most of the grated cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
3. Combine and Bake: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Place the drained cauliflower in a baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over it, covering all the florets. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• You can add a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch by sprinkling breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter on top before baking.
• For a lighter version, use semi-skimmed milk and reduce the butter by half.
• Try adding a little mustard powder or Worcestershire sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra flavor boost.
• This dish pairs well with roast dinners or can be served alongside grilled chicken or fish.
• To make it gluten free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch.

Keywords: cauliflower cheese, baked cauliflower, cheesy cauliflower bake, comfort food, vegetarian side dish