Indulge in the comforting and creamy goodness of this Golden Baked Cauliflower Cheese Casserole. This dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or as a side dish to elevate any meal. Combining tender cauliflower florets with a rich and cheesy sauce, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy vegetable with an indulgent twist. With its golden crust and irresistible flavor, this dish promises to be the highlight of your dining table.
Preparation Details
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 people
Ingredients
1 medium cauliflower, broken into florets
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1½ cups (375 ml) milk (warm)
1 cup (100 g) grated cheddar cheese
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
100 g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, sliced
Fresh parsley for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare the Cauliflower
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and blanch for 4-5 minutes, or until slightly tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce
- Heat a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux (a thick paste).
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Arrange the blanched cauliflower florets in the dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Top with sliced mozzarella cheese to add a gooey texture and golden finish.
- Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- For an extra crispy finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve warm as a side dish or even as a main course with crusty bread.
Tips and Notes
- For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
- Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, like Gruyère or Gouda, for a unique flavor profile.
- You can prepare the dish ahead of time. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
The Golden Baked Cauliflower Cheese Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, blending the simplicity of cauliflower with the richness of cheese for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is versatile. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a hearty addition to your family’s weeknight meal, this recipe will not disappoint. It’s quick to prepare, easily customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the warm and gooey embrace of this classic dish, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a staple in your home cooking repertoire!