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Cauliflower Cheese Bake

A delightful baked dish that combines tender cauliflower in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a blend of cheeses and optional crunchy breadcrumbs for a comforting side or vegetarian main.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Vegetarian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 large head large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200g)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 100g)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (30g)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (30g)
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%) (480ml)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for topping)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 25g)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crunchy topping)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes, just until tender but not mushy. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  4. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly, making sure no lumps remain. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Add 1½ cups of cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese to the sauce. Stir until smooth and melted.
  7. Gently fold the drained cauliflower into the cheese sauce, ensuring it's evenly coated.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and optional breadcrumbs on top. Dust lightly with paprika if desired.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  11. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

This Cauliflower Cheese Bake can be served as a side or a main dish. Consider mixing in other veggies like steamed broccoli for extra color. You can also prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.