Cauliflower Cheese Recipe
British · Main course · 45 min total
A classic British comfort dish featuring tender cauliflower florets baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce with a golden breadcrumb topping.
15
min prep
30
min cook
4
servings
380
kcal/serving
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into florets
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 2-quart baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 5 minutes until just tender. Drain well and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Cook, whisking frequently, until sauce thickens and bubbles, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted. Add mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Arrange cooked cauliflower in the prepared baking dish. Pour cheese sauce evenly over the top.
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle over the sauce.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the sauce.
- To make ahead, assemble the dish (without breadcrumbs) and refrigerate. Add breadcrumbs just before baking and increase baking time by 5-10 minutes.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
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