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Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Delight

Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Delight

Tender cauliflower tucked into a creamy, garlicky cheese sauce and baked under a crisp Parmesan-panko topping. Pure comfort with a golden, bubbly finish.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb cauliflower florets cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 tsp minced garlic
  • 0.75 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • 1.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded divided
  • 0.33 cup Parmesan cheese, grated divided
  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped plus more for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
  • Toss cauliflower with 1 tbsp olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread on a sheet pan.
  • Roast until crisp-tender and lightly golden, 12–15 minutes. Meanwhile, start the sauce.
  • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  • Whisk in flour for 1 minute. Slowly pour in heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
  • Add Dijon, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thick, 2–3 minutes.
  • Remove from heat. Stir in 1¼ cups cheddar and half the Parmesan until melted and creamy.
  • Transfer roasted cauliflower to the baking dish. Pour sauce over and gently toss to coat.
  • Combine panko, remaining Parmesan, parsley, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Sprinkle over the casserole. Top with remaining cheddar.
  • Bake until bubbling and golden, 15–18 minutes. Broil 1–2 minutes for extra color if desired. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Variation: Swap half the cheddar for Gruyère for a nuttier flavor, or add 1 cup of steamed broccoli for extra greens. Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat covered at 350°F until warmed through.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Delight flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.