Easy Cheesy Cauliflower Bake Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a comforting yet nutritious dish, look no further than this cauliflower bake recipe. This satisfying dish combines the creamy richness of cheese with the subtle, nutty flavor of roasted cauliflower, making it an irresistible choice for your next family dinner.
Growing up, this cheesy vegetable dish was a staple at our family gatherings. My grandmother, an avid gardener, harvested her own cauliflower, ensuring the freshest ingredients every time. I fondly recall weekends when the aroma of cheese baking in the oven would fill her kitchen. It’s one of those comfort foods that always manages to bring everyone around the table for a warm and cozy meal, reminiscent of those cherished family moments.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but incredibly easy to make. It’s a one-bake wonder that requires minimal prep time, perfect for busy weeknights or as a quick addition to a festive feast. The combination of crunchy topping and creamy interior delivers a textural delight that will please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various main courses, making it a fantastic go-to side dish.
Ingredients Notes
This recipe stars fresh cauliflower, but you can use frozen if that’s all you have on hand. Look for firm, creamy-white heads with no dark spots. Mozzarella and cheddar add a melty yumminess, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. For breadcrumbs, a homemade stale bread mix works beautifully, but store-bought is equally fine.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse and chop the cauliflower into bite-sized florets for even roasting.
Step 2
Blanch the cauliflower in boiling water for 3 minutes to tenderize. Drain well and set aside to cool.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower, shredded cheese, cream, and seasoning. Stir until the cauliflower is evenly coated.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Just drop your email here and I'll send it right away! Plus you'll get new recipes from me every week. Yes please!
Step 4
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and an additional sprinkle of cheese for a golden finish.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm. If you want to freeze, do so before baking the dish; then, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
Variations & Substitutions
Substitute cauliflower with broccoli for a different taste profile. For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy cheese and cream. Add cooked bacon bits or sliced olives for extra flavor, and spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This bake is perfect as a side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled fish. Serve it at brunch with eggs and toast, or bring it to your next potluck—it’s sure to be a hit! Pair it with a crisp green salad for a lighter meal option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-riced cauliflower for this dish? Yes, pre-riced cauliflower will work, but the texture will differ, as it won’t offer the same bite as florets. Adjust the cooking time to avoid mushiness.
Is it okay to make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely. Prepare and assemble the dish the day before and store it in the fridge. Bake just before serving to maintain its freshness.
What type of cheese works best? Mozzarella and cheddar are excellent choices due to their melting properties, but gruyere or gouda would also add unique flavors. Feel free to mix and match your favorites.
Remember it later
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Easy Cheesy Cauliflower Bake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower cut into florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.25 teaspoon salt to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper to taste
- 0.25 cup breadcrumbs for topping
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil cauliflower florets in a large pot of salted water for 5-7 minutes until tender. Drain well and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw taste of the flour is gone.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook while stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Add 1 and 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir until cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine cooked cauliflower with prepared cheese sauce in a large bowl. Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs over the top of the cauliflower mixture.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
