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I cook cauliflower like this! Cheesy Baked Cauliflower


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Cauliflower Perfection : Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower while keeping it tender.
  2. Cheesy Goodness : A rich, creamy cheese sauce blankets the cauliflower for ultimate indulgence.
  3. Customizable : Add spices, herbs, or toppings to suit your taste.
  4. Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will devour this cheesy, comforting dish.
  5. Versatile : Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a vegetarian main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 4–6

For the Cauliflower:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower , cut into florets (or 4 cups pre-cut florets)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper , to taste

For the Cheesy Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or any preferred variety)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth)
  • Salt and pepper , to taste

Optional Toppings:

  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • Extra shredded cheese (for topping before baking)
  • Fresh parsley , chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Roast the Cauliflower

  1. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Spread the florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or dish.
  3. Roast for 20–25 minutes , or until the cauliflower is tender and slightly caramelized around the edges. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes , stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a paste (this is called a roux).
  2. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5–7 minutes).
  3. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.