Description
Creamy British cauliflower cheese delivers comforting flavors straight from classic home kitchens. Melted cheese blankets tender cauliflower florets in a rich sauce that promises delicious warmth when you need classic comfort on a plate.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables:
- 1 head cauliflower or 2 small heads
Cheeses:
- 6 ounces (170 grams) extra sharp aged cheddar cheese (cut into small cubes)
- 6 ounces (170 grams) extra sharp aged white cheddar cheese (cut into small cubes)
- 1 tablespoon (15 grams) Parmesan cheese
Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 2 cups (480 milliliters) whole milk
- 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter
- 2 tablespoons (16 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon (15 grams) Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon (7 grams) bread crumbs
- ¾ teaspoon coarse or kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare fresh cauliflower by cutting into uniform large florets, then steam until fork-tender, ensuring a soft but not mushy texture.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius) and generously butter a 9×11-inch (23×28 centimeters) casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium-low heat, then gradually whisk in flour to create a smooth roux, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns light golden.
- Slowly pour in whole milk while continuously whisking, increasing heat to medium-high and bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Incorporate Dijon mustard into the sauce, then reduce heat to low, allowing flavors to meld and develop depth.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and creating a smooth, creamy consistency, then remove from heat.
- Transfer steamed cauliflower florets into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even distribution, then pour the luxurious cheese sauce over the vegetables, coating them thoroughly.
- Mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese in a small bowl, then sprinkle the crispy topping evenly across the surface of the cauliflower.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the sauce bubbles around the edges, then let the dish rest for 5-7 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and flavors to intensify.
Notes
- Elevate your weeknight dinner with this comforting classic that transforms humble cauliflower into a crowd-pleasing dish.
- Steaming the cauliflower first ensures perfectly tender florets that absorb the rich, creamy cheese sauce.
- Creating a smooth roux forms the foundation of the silky sauce, preventing any lumpy textures.
- Mustard adds a subtle tangy kick that brightens the entire flavor profile of the cheesy goodness.
- Parmesan and breadcrumb topping creates an irresistible golden crust that adds delightful crunch to each bite.
- Letting the dish rest allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier, letting flavors meld beautifully.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 65mg