Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cheesy Cauliflower Bake Main Dish


  • Author: Amanda

Ingredients

Scale

To create the ultimate cheesy cauliflower bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower: Cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Divided
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder: Optional
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For garnish

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare a creamy, cheesy cauliflower bake:

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
  2. Prepare the cauliflower:
    • Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
    • Spread the florets evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
  3. Make the cheese sauce:
    • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
    • Stir in the flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
    • Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
    • Continue whisking for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
  4. Add the cheeses and seasonings:
    • Lower the heat and add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses to the sauce.
    • Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
    • Mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, mustard powder, the remaining salt, and black pepper.
  5. Combine cauliflower and cheese sauce:
    • Place the roasted cauliflower florets into a baking dish.
    • Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
  6. Prepare the topping:
    • In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter to moisten them.
    • Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheesy cauliflower.
  7. Bake the dish:
    • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  8. Garnish and serve:
    • Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 300
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg