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Baked Cheesy Cauliflower


  • Author: Christine
  • Total Time: 40 min.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cauliflower:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Topping:

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Cook the Cauliflower: In a large pot of salted water, bring to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes, or until slightly tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
  3. Toss with Olive Oil: Place the cauliflower in the prepared baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the Flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux (paste).
  3. Add Milk: Slowly add the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add Cheese: Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  5. Season: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Assemble the Dish

  1. Combine Cauliflower and Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring all florets are covered.
  2. Top with Breadcrumbs: If using, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the cauliflower and cheese sauce.

Bake the Cauliflower

  1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  2. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving, and enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 10 min.
  • Cook Time: 30 min.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4-6 servings
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 7g