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Isabella

Creamy Cauliflower Cheese Bake: A Must-Try Recipe!

A delicious and creamy cauliflower cheese bake that is perfect as a side dish or a main course.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium heads of cauliflower cut into florets
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional, for topping
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Remove the saucepan from heat and add 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  7. Combine the cooked cauliflower with the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat all the florets.
  8. Pour the cauliflower and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle the breadcrumbs and the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 15gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3g

Notes

  • For a healthier version, substitute half of the cheddar cheese with a lower-fat cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
  • Add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

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