Baked Cauliflower Cheese

Description:

Baked Cauliflower Cheese is a creamy, comforting side dish made with tender cauliflower florets smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly. The perfect blend of flavors and textures, this dish is a great vegetarian alternative to traditional mac and cheese and a great way to enjoy cauliflower in a hearty, indulgent form.

Origin:

Baked Cauliflower Cheese is a classic British dish, often served as a side at family gatherings or as part of a Sunday roast. It combines the mild taste of cauliflower with a rich cheese sauce, creating a comforting dish that has become a favorite in many homes.

Ingredients:

For the Cauliflower:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for roasting)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Cauliflower:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until slightly golden and tender, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, you can steam or boil the cauliflower if you prefer.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

4. While the cauliflower is roasting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
5. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux.
6. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
7. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated cheddar and parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth.

Assemble the Dish:

9. Once the cauliflower is roasted, transfer it to a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower and gently mix to coat evenly.
10. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the cauliflower and cheese sauce.
11. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

12. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley (optional) and serve hot as a delicious side dish.

Tips for Success:

• For extra flavor, try using a mix of cheeses, such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.
• If you want a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
• You can make this dish ahead of time by preparing the cauliflower and cheese sauce separately and assembling the dish before baking.
• For a lighter version, use lower-fat milk and cheese, and consider steaming the cauliflower instead of roasting it.

Recommendations:

• Serve as a side dish with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with other comfort foods like mashed potatoes or a hearty stew.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 6 servings):

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg

Baked Cauliflower Cheese is a deliciously indulgent dish that brings out the best in cauliflower, with creamy cheese and a crunchy topping that everyone will enjoy!