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cheesy cauliflower Recipe

Cheesy Cauliflower

This Cheesy Cauliflower Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that transforms humble cauliflower into a creamy, cheesy side dish or vegetarian main. It's perfect for family dinners or potlucks and sure to please both kids and adults.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium head cauliflower florets Approximately 600 g.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped Optional garnish.

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 colander
  • 1 8x8-inch baking dish
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 cheese grater if grating cheese fresh
  • 1 oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the cauliflower into bite-size florets.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower and boil for 5 minutes until just tender. Drain in a colander.
  4. In a pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue whisking until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and the cheese is melted.
  7. Place the drained cauliflower in the baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and gently mix to coat the cauliflower evenly.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  10. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce.
You can substitute part of the cheddar with mozzarella or Gruyère for a different twist.
For a crunchy top, add a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs before baking.