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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- 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.
- 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
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the Flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux (paste).
- Add Milk: Slowly add the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Season: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Assemble the Dish
- Combine Cauliflower and Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring all florets are covered.
- 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
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- 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