Description
This Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Recipe is the ultimate comfort side dish — tender cauliflower coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly. It’s the perfect low-carb alternative to mac and cheese, packed with flavor and simple enough for any night of the week. Whether you serve it at a holiday table or a regular Tuesday dinner, it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
-
1 large head of cauliflower, chopped into bite-sized florets
-
2 tbsp butter
-
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
-
1½ cups whole milk
-
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
½ tsp garlic powder
-
½ tsp onion powder
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
-
Optional: pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes
-
Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
-
Optional: ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (for crispy topping)
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
Boil cauliflower: In a large pot of salted water, boil cauliflower florets for 4–5 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
-
Make cheese sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until smooth and slightly thickened.
-
Add cheese & seasoning: Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and any optional spices.
-
Combine & bake: Add cauliflower to the baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over and gently toss to coat. Sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top if using.
-
Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Rest for 5 minutes, garnish with herbs, and serve warm.
Notes
-
For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end (watch carefully!).
-
Make ahead: Assemble the dish and refrigerate up to 1 day ahead. Bake before serving.
-
Try different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even smoked Gouda for variety.
-
Make it low-carb/keto by skipping the flour or using almond flour.
-
Use plant-based cheese and milk for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy Cheesy Cauliflower Bake