Cauliflower cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for a gooey, satisfying side dish that’s guaranteed to steal the show, Cauliflower cheese is the answer! This British classic features tender cauliflower cloaked in a creamy cheese sauce, then baked until deeply golden and bubbling. Each bite is irresistibly rich and comforting, making it a must-make whenever a craving strikes or you need the perfect partner for a Sunday roast. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or as an indulgent vegetarian main, this Cauliflower cheese recipe is all about cozy, delicious simplicity that never disappoints.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Cauliflower cheese are delightfully simple, yet each one brings something essential to the final dish. From the sharpness of mature cheddar to the subtle kick of mustard, every bite delivers big flavor and a satisfyingly velvety texture.

• Cauliflower: The star of the show! Fresh, firm florets work best for soaking up that cheesy sauce.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps build a silky roux as the foundation for your sauce.
• Plain flour: Thickens the sauce to create that creamy texture; gluten-free flour works too if needed.
• Milk: Brings everything together with smoothness; whole milk is best for extra creaminess.
• English mustard: Just a teaspoon lifts the entire dish, adding warmth and subtle depth without overpowering.
• Mature cheddar, grated: Pick a strong, flavorful cheese for that irresistible, gooey finish.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go for the perfect balance.

How to Make Cauliflower cheese

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First things first, preheat your oven to 190C (170C Fan, Gas 5) so it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake. While the oven is heating, wash your cauliflower well and cut it into large, even florets. This ensures they cook evenly and hold their texture under all that cheese.

Step 2: Cook the Cauliflower

Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil and carefully add the florets. Boil them for 3–5 minutes until they’re almost, but not quite, tender. They should be easy to pierce with a knife but still retain some firmness so they don’t go mushy in the oven. Drain them well in a colander and set aside—extra moisture could dilute your sauce later, so make sure they’re not too wet.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce Base

Put the butter in a heavy-based saucepan and melt it over gentle heat. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for about a minute to create a smooth roux. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the backbone for your creamy Cauliflower cheese sauce.

Step 4: Gradually Add Milk

Remove the pan from the heat and pour in a little milk at a time, whisking well after each addition to prevent lumps. Once all the milk is added and your mixture is smooth, return it to a medium heat. Stir constantly as the sauce thickens and comes to a boil, then let it simmer for around 2 minutes—this ensures a perfectly velvety consistency.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Take the pan off the heat and whisk in the English mustard and two-thirds of the grated cheddar. Stir until the cheese has melted into the sauce, creating a luscious, smooth mixture. Taste and season with salt and pepper as you like—remember, a touch of extra black pepper can really bring out the flavor.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Scatter your drained cauliflower into an ovenproof dish, arranging the florets in an even layer. Pour the hot cheese sauce generously over the top, taking care to cover every piece. Sprinkle over the remaining cheese for that signature golden top. Slide the dish into your hot oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the Cauliflower cheese is bubbling and gorgeously browned—you’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully crisp and the edges are invitingly golden.

How to Serve Cauliflower cheese

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishing Cauliflower cheese, a few simple touches can take this dish to the next level. Try a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley right before serving to add a pop of green and a hint of freshness. Some people love an extra hit of pepper or a dusting of paprika for color and subtle warmth.

Side Dishes

This is the ultimate side for a traditional Sunday roast, pairing beautifully with roast beef, chicken, or nut roasts. Cauliflower cheese also complements sausages, baked potatoes, or even a simple green salad—anything that lets that cheesy sauce shine. It’s luxurious enough to stand alone as the centerpiece for a vegetarian meal, especially with some crusty bread to mop up every last bit.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of a large baking dish, try baking individual portions in small ramekins for a dinner party wow factor. For an elegant brunch, serve Cauliflower cheese on toasted sourdough or spoon a little over baked jacket potatoes. If you’re feeling bold, try stirring in some steamed broccoli or fresh spinach for extra color and nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, Cauliflower cheese keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to three days. Just let it cool down first, then cover your baking dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container to keep it fresh and delicious.

Freezing

Want to freeze your Cauliflower cheese for later? No problem! Simply let the cooked dish cool completely, wrap it well, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. While the sauce may thicken slightly, a quick stir and a little splash of milk (before baking) can help revive that creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and place in a moderate oven (about 180C) until piping hot, usually around 15–20 minutes. For single portions, a quick blast in the microwave works too—just be sure to stir halfway through to distribute the heat evenly. A few extra shreds of cheese on top before reheating are always welcome!

FAQs

Can I make Cauliflower cheese in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead and keep it in the fridge, covered, until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a time-saving option for busy dinners or special occasions.

Is there a way to make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use a good-quality gluten-free plain flour for the roux. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap that won’t affect the flavor or texture of your Cauliflower cheese.

Which cheese works best for Cauliflower cheese?

Mature cheddar is the traditional choice because its strong flavor cuts through the creamy sauce. But you can get creative; try a mix of cheddar and a punchy blue, or even a little Gruyère for extra richness.

How do I prevent my sauce from going lumpy?

The secret is to add the milk gradually, whisking constantly between each addition off the heat. Taking your time with this step ensures a smooth sauce, plus stirring as it thickens over the heat helps avoid lumps.

Can I add extras to the recipe?

Definitely! Try adding a handful of sautéed leeks or crispy bacon bits to the baking dish before pouring over the sauce. A layer of sliced tomatoes on top is also delicious and adds a pretty finish when baked.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like digging into a bubbling dish of homemade Cauliflower cheese—every forkful is cozy comfort at its best. Whether you’re serving it alongside a Sunday roast or making it the centerpiece of a weeknight meal, I hope this recipe becomes a firm favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and let the creamy, cheesy magic bring a little joy to your table!

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