Here’s a classic Cauliflower Cheese recipe—creamy, cheesy, and perfect as a side dish or comfort food.
Cauliflower Cheese
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups grated cheddar cheese (reserve a few tbsp for topping)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Cook cauliflower
- Boil or steam cauliflower florets for 5–7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make cheese sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until sauce thickens.
- Stir in mustard, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and most of the cheese until melted.
- Assemble dish
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place cauliflower in a greased baking dish.
- Pour cheese sauce over cauliflower, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Add topping
- Sprinkle remaining cheese and breadcrumbs on top for a golden crust (optional).
- Bake
- Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbling and golden on top.
- Serve
- Serve hot as a side dish with roast meats, grilled chicken, or on its own.
Pro Tips
- Cheese variations: Use a mix of cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Make ahead: Assemble in advance and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
- Extra creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of cream or cream cheese into the sauce.
- Vegetable twist: Add broccoli or cauliflower-broccoli mix for variety.
If you want, I can also provide a stovetop version of cauliflower cheese that skips the oven and is ready in 15 minutes.
Do you want me to do that?
