Roasted Cauliflower with Cheese: Easy, Delicious, and Cheesy

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Roasted Cauliflower with Cheese RecipeRoasted cauliflower with cheese is a versatile and delicious dish that can serve as a side or a main course. Originating from the British classic “cauliflower cheese,” this recipe has been a favorite for generations. Combining the nutty flavor of roasted cauliflower with the creamy, rich taste of melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a luxurious addition to your holiday table, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large cauliflower head, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Cauliflower

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to roast the cauliflower evenly.
  2. Cut the Cauliflower: Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower, then cut it into bite-sized florets.
  3. Season the Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  4. Roast the Cauliflower: Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and slightly browned.

Making the Cheese Sauce

  1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the Flour: Stir in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until it is golden and fragrant.
  3. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
  4. Add the Cheese: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combining and Baking

  1. Combine the Cauliflower and Sauce: Place the roasted cauliflower in a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring all pieces are coated.
  2. Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy finish.
  3. Bake: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Tips and Variations

Tips

  • Even Roasting: Ensure the cauliflower florets are similar in size for even roasting.
  • Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or even a blue cheese for a more intense flavor.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

Variations

  • Baked Cauliflower with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
  • Simple Roasted Cauliflower with Cheese: Skip the sauce and simply sprinkle cheese directly on the roasted cauliflower before the final bake.
  • Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Cheese: Add a teaspoon of mustard to the cheese sauce for a tangy twist.
  • Quick Cauliflower Cheese Recipe: Use pre-roasted cauliflower and store-bought cheese sauce to save time.
  • Best Cauliflower Cheese Recipe: Incorporate a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
  • Quick Cauliflower Cheese Recipe for 2: Halve the recipe for a perfect portion for two people.
  • Luxury Cauliflower Cheese: Add a drizzle of truffle oil before serving for a touch of elegance.
  • Mary Berry Cauliflower Cheese: Follow Mary Berry’s classic approach by adding a layer of sliced tomatoes on top before baking.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Approximate)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg

Conclusion

Roasted cauliflower with cheese is a versatile dish that brings together the best of roasted vegetables and creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for special occasions. Give this recipe a try and let it become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations in the comments below, and spread the word on social media. For more delicious recipes, subscribe to our newsletter and keep exploring the world of easy and crispy recipes on easycrispyrecipes.com.

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