Description
Comfort meets nutrition in this mouthwatering Cheesy Cauliflower Bake that blends creamy textures with golden-brown crispiness. Parmesan and sharp cheddar elevate humble cauliflower into a delectable side dish you’ll crave at every meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cups (480 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese
Dairy and Binding Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) milk
- 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter
- 2 tablespoons (15 grams) all-purpose flour
Seasoning:
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare a 375F (190C) oven for optimal baking temperature.
- Transform cauliflower florets into tender morsels through precise steaming for 5-7 minutes.
- Craft a velvety roux by melting butter and incorporating flour until achieving a silky smooth consistency.
- Introduce milk gradually, whisking continuously to create a luxurious, thickened sauce.
- Elevate the sauce’s richness by folding in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into a creamy embrace.
- Arrange steamed cauliflower in a baking dish, generously coating with the decadent cheese sauce.
- Enhance the dish’s visual appeal and flavor profile by sprinkling the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese across the surface.
- Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for a golden-brown, bubbling cheese topping that signals culinary perfection.
- Present immediately while piping hot, inviting diners to savor the harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Notes
- Ensure cauliflower is cut into uniform florets for even cooking and consistent texture.
- Drain steamed cauliflower thoroughly to prevent watery cheese sauce, using a colander or paper towels.
- For a low-carb version, replace flour with almond flour or cornstarch to maintain sauce thickness.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like gruyère or parmesan for enhanced flavor complexity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 445 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg