Cauliflower Cheese Recipe: How to Make the Creamiest & Tastiest Dish?

Cauliflower cheese is a true British classic rich, creamy, and bursting with flavour. Whether served as a side dish for a Sunday roast or enjoyed as a comforting main meal, it remains one of the most beloved dishes in British cuisine.

This dish is loved for its simplicity and versatility. It is the perfect balance of tender cauliflower, a velvety cheese sauce, and a golden-brown, crispy topping. But making the perfect cauliflower cheese requires attention to detail.

The choice of cheese, the consistency of the sauce, and the cooking method all play crucial roles in creating a dish that is truly indulgent.

In this guide, you will learn how to make a rich and creamy cauliflower cheese recipe, with a step-by-step method, useful cooking tips, and variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

What is Cauliflower Cheese?

Cauliflower cheese is a traditional British comfort food that dates back to the 18th century. It is believed to have originated from the classic French cauliflower gratin, but the British version focuses more on a rich cheese sauce rather than a cream-based one.

This dish is a staple in British homes and is often served as a side dish with roast meats, holiday meals, or even as a vegetarian main course. The combination of soft, oven-baked cauliflower and a cheese-laden sauce makes it a favourite among both adults and children.

Unlike some gratin dishes that rely heavily on cream, cauliflower cheese is all about the cheese sauce. The sauce is typically made with a mixture of mature Cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan, which melts beautifully and gives the dish a deep, rich flavour.

Ingredients for the Perfect Cauliflower Cheese 

To achieve the best cauliflower cheese, the right ingredients are essential. Using high-quality cheese and fresh cauliflower will significantly impact the taste and texture of the dish.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
• 50g butter
• 50g plain flour
• 500ml whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth)
• 150g mature Cheddar cheese, grated
• 50g Gruyère or Parmesan cheese, grated (for extra richness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Breadcrumbs (optional), for a crispy topping

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavour:

• A pinch of nutmeg enhances the flavour of the cheese sauce
• Cooked bacon or ham  adds a savoury and smoky twist
• Paprika or cayenne pepper provides a hint of spice

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cauliflower Cheese 

Prepare the Cauliflower

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the cauliflower florets and blanch for 5 minutes until just tender. This helps soften the cauliflower while keeping its shape intact.
• Drain the cauliflower well and set aside. Ensuring it is properly drained prevents the sauce from becoming watery.

Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
• Add the mustard, salt, and pepper, followed by the grated cheeses. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Assemble the Dish

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas Mark 6.
• Arrange the blanched cauliflower in an ovenproof dish, ensuring the florets are spread out evenly.
• Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, making sure it is fully covered.
• Sprinkle extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top for an added crispy texture.

Bake to Perfection

• Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and bubbling.
• Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving, as this helps the sauce thicken slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Cauliflower cheese is a wonderfully versatile dish that can be served in multiple ways. Whether you are preparing it as a side dish or a main course, there are plenty of ways to make it a satisfying meal.

As a Side Dish for a Traditional Sunday Roast

• One of the most popular ways to enjoy cauliflower cheese is as a side dish for a traditional Sunday roast.
• The rich, creamy texture of the cheese sauce pairs perfectly with roasted meats and gravy.

Here are some classic pairings:

• Roast Beef: The umami-rich flavour of roast beef complements the creamy, cheesy sauce. Serve with Yorkshire puddings and roasted vegetables for a full meal.
• Roast Chicken: The mild flavour of roasted chicken works beautifully with the sharpness of Cheddar in the cauliflower cheese.
• Roast Pork: The crispiness of pork crackling contrasts nicely with the smooth and creamy cauliflower cheese.
• Roast Lamb: The slightly gamey taste of lamb balances well with the rich cheese sauce. A drizzle of mint sauce can add an extra layer of freshness.

As a Vegetarian Main Course

• Although often served as a side dish, cauliflower cheese can also be enjoyed as a hearty main course.
• Its high protein content from the cheese and milk makes it a satisfying meal on its own.

To turn cauliflower cheese into a full vegetarian meal, try pairing it with:

• Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or a slice of garlic bread can be used to scoop up the creamy sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: The combination of soft, buttery mashed potatoes and cheesy cauliflower creates an indulgent and comforting meal.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Serve it with buttered peas, steamed carrots, or sautéed spinach for a balanced and nutritious meal.
• A Fresh Green Salad: The richness of the cheese sauce is perfectly balanced by the crispness of a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.

With Baked or Jacket Potatoes

• For a simple and budget-friendly meal, serve cauliflower cheese with a baked potato (jacket potato).
• The crispy skin and fluffy interior of a baked potato make it the perfect vehicle for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce.

Try these delicious combinations:

• Classic Jacket Potato with Cauliflower Cheese: Slice open a freshly baked potato and spoon the cauliflower cheese on top.
• Loaded Jacket Potato:  Add extras like crispy bacon, caramelised onions, or a handful of grated cheese for an indulgent twist.
• Jacket Potato with a Side Salad: For a lighter meal, pair it with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the cheese.

As a Filling for Savoury Pastries and Pies

• Cauliflower cheese can be used as a filling for different types of savoury pastries and pies.
• This is a great way to repurpose leftovers into a new and exciting dish.

Some ideas include:

• Cauliflower Cheese Pie: Fill a buttery pastry crust with cauliflower cheese, then bake until golden brown.
• Cauliflower Cheese Pasties: Wrap small portions of cauliflower cheese in puff pastry, fold into a pasty shape, and bake until crispy.
• Cauliflower Cheese Tart: Use a shortcrust pastry base and fill it with cauliflower cheese for a unique and flavourful tart.

With Pasta for a Creamy, Cheesy Twist

• For those who love mac and cheese, adding pasta to cauliflower cheese creates a luxurious and hearty meal.
• Simply mix cooked pasta with cauliflower cheese, place it in an ovenproof dish, top with more cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until golden and crispy.

You can also experiment with different pasta shapes such as:

• Penne or Rigatoni: The hollow centers hold the cheese sauce perfectly.
• Macaroni:  A great alternative to classic mac and cheese.
• Fusilli or Rotini: The spirals capture all the creamy sauce.

Cauliflower Cheese Variations & Twists on the Traditional Recipe

Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Smoked Paprika & Chorizo

Difference:

• The addition of smoked paprika and crispy chorizo transforms a traditional cauliflower cheese into something with a deep, smoky flavor and a subtle spicy kick.
• The chorizo adds both texture and richness, while the paprika imparts an earthy smokiness.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Start by steaming or blanching cauliflower florets until they’re just tender.
• Make Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter and add 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika. Let it cook for about 1 minute to release the flavors, then slowly add milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer. Once the mixture is smooth, stir in grated cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper.
• Add Chorizo: While preparing the sauce, cook chopped chorizo in a separate pan until it becomes crispy. Once crispy, mix the chorizo into the sauce just before pouring it over the cauliflower.
• Bake: Pour the creamy sauce over the cauliflower, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake in a preheated oven until the top is golden and bubbling. The smoky and spicy flavors will bring a new dimension to the dish, making it much more complex and flavorful.

Mary Berry Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Mustard and Nutmeg

Difference:

• This variation introduces the sharpness of mustard and the warmth of nutmeg to the traditional cheese sauce, balancing the richness of these aromatic flavors.
• The mustard cuts through the creaminess of the cheese sauce, while the nutmeg adds a comforting depth.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until they’re tender but still firm enough to hold their shape.
• Make Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter and add a tablespoon of flour to make a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps, until you have a smooth, thickened sauce. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
• Assemble: Once the sauce is ready, pour it over the steamed cauliflower, ensuring the florets are well-coated. Top with grated cheddar cheese and bake in the oven until golden and bubbling.
• Result: The tangy mustard and fragrant nutmeg bring a sophisticated edge to the dish, making it a standout version of the traditional cauliflower cheese.

Roasted Cauliflower and Cheese Variation: Garlic and Parmesan Crust

Difference:

• Roasting the cauliflower first intensifies its natural flavors, creating a caramelized, slightly smoky base.
• Adding a garlic and parmesan crust gives a crunchy, savory topping that contrasts with the creamy cheese sauce.

Instructions:

• Roast Cauliflower: Toss cauliflower florets in olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast them at 200°C (400°F) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
• Cheese Sauce: While the cauliflower is roasting, make a creamy cheese sauce by melting butter in a pan, adding flour to make a roux, and slowly whisking in milk. Once thickened, stir in grated cheddar and parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
• Assemble: Once the cauliflower is roasted, pour the cheese sauce over the florets and top with a mixture of parmesan and breadcrumbs. Return the dish to the oven to bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
• Result: The roasted cauliflower adds a deeper, more complex flavor, while the garlic and parmesan crust brings extra texture and richness to the dish.

Vegan Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Cashew Nut Cheese Sauce

Difference:

• This vegan version replaces traditional dairy with a creamy cashew-based cheese sauce, which provides a rich, nutty flavor.
• Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy taste without any dairy.

Instructions:

• Prepare Cauliflower: Steam cauliflower florets until soft and tender.
• Cashew Sauce: Soak raw cashews in water for at least 4 hours (or overnight). Drain and blend the soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, and a little water or plant-based milk until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add more water or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Assemble: Pour the creamy cashew sauce over the steamed cauliflower and bake with a sprinkle of vegan cheese or breadcrumbs on top until golden and bubbling.
• Result: The cashew sauce offers a rich and creamy texture, while the nutritional yeast provides a delicious “cheese” flavor, making this a perfect dairy-free alternative.

Broccoli and Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Bacon and Herbs

Difference:

• The combination of broccoli and cauliflower adds variety and color, while crispy bacon and fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, elevate the dish with savory flavors.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam both broccoli and cauliflower florets until tender.
• Make Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter and add flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a simmer, then stir in grated cheddar and fresh herbs like thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
• Bacon: Fry bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Stir the crispy bacon into the sauce just before pouring it over the cauliflower and broccoli mixture.
• Assemble: Pour the sauce over the vegetables, top with extra cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.
• Result: The bacon adds a salty, crunchy contrast, while the herbs bring a fragrant, fresh quality to the dish.

Tesco Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Cheddar and Blue Cheese

Difference:

• Adding blue cheese creates a rich, tangy contrast to the creamy cheddar, giving the cauliflower cheese a bold and distinctive flavor.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until tender.
• Make Sauce: Prepare a classic cheese sauce, but stir in a generous portion of crumbled blue cheese along with cheddar. The blue cheese will melt into the sauce, adding richness and a hint of tang.
• Assemble: Pour the sauce over the cauliflower and bake until golden and bubbly.
• Result: The blue cheese imparts a sharp, creamy flavor that pairs beautifully with the milder cheddar, creating a more complex and indulgent cauliflower cheese.

Air Fry Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Crispy Panko Topping

Difference:

• Air frying the cauliflower cheese gives it an extra crispy, golden topping, with less oil needed compared to traditional frying or baking methods.
• The panko breadcrumbs create a crunchy, light finish.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until tender.
• Make Sauce: Prepare a classic cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and gradually whisking in milk. Stir in your favorite cheeses and season to taste.
• Assemble: Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle the mixture on top for added crunch.
• Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) and cook the cauliflower cheese for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is crispy and golden.
• Result: The air fryer ensures a crispier top and edges while keeping the cauliflower tender and juicy inside.

Aldi Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Smoked Cheese

Difference:

• The use of smoked cheese adds a rich, deep flavor to the dish, providing a contrast to the light, delicate taste of cauliflower.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until just tender.
• Make Sauce: Prepare a cheese sauce using a combination of smoked cheese and cheddar for a deep, smoky flavor.
• Assemble: Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower and bake until golden and bubbling.
• Result: The smoked cheese lends a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall flavor, making the cauliflower cheese feel more rustic and rich.

Marks and Spencer Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Truffle Oil

Difference:

• A luxurious touch of truffle oil adds depth and an earthy, gourmet flavor to the dish, making it an indulgent side or main course.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until tender.
• Make Sauce: Prepare a cheese sauce with cheddar, adding a drizzle of truffle oil for flavor.
• Assemble: Pour the sauce over the cauliflower and bake until golden. After baking, drizzle with extra truffle oil for an aromatic finish.
• Result: The truffle oil enhances the dish’s flavors with an aromatic, luxurious touch, perfect for a more refined cauliflower cheese.

Sainsbury’s Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Leek and Tarragon

Difference:

• The addition of sweet, sautéed leeks and aromatic tarragon brings a fresh and herby touch to the traditional cauliflower cheese, providing a delicate yet flavorful base that complements the creamy sauce.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until tender. While the cauliflower is steaming, sauté leeks in butter until they soften and become sweet and fragrant.
• Make Sauce: Prepare a creamy cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and grated cheddar. Stir in finely chopped fresh tarragon for an herbal aroma.
• Assemble: Layer the steamed cauliflower and sautéed leeks in a baking dish, then pour the cheese sauce over the top. Sprinkle with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until golden and bubbly.
• Result: The leeks add sweetness, while the tarragon brings a sophisticated herbal note that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

Gordon Ramsay Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Chive and Cream Cheese

Difference:

• The use of cream cheese adds richness and a smooth texture to the sauce, while fresh chives provide a burst of color and mild oniony flavor that perfectly complements the cauliflower.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until tender.
• Make Sauce: In a saucepan, prepare a classic cheese sauce with butter, milk, and cheddar. Stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese to make the sauce extra smooth and creamy. Add freshly chopped chives to the sauce for an added touch of freshness.
• Assemble: Pour the sauce over the cauliflower and bake until golden.
• Result: The cream cheese adds a luxurious texture, while the chives provide a mild, onion-like flavor that makes this version stand out.

Leek Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Caramelized Shallots

Difference:

• Adding caramelized shallots gives the dish a sweet, deep flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheese sauce, making the cauliflower cheese more complex and savory.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until tender. In a separate pan, caramelize shallots by cooking them slowly in butter until golden and sweet.
• Make Sauce: Prepare a creamy cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour to form a roux, and gradually whisking in milk. Once thickened, stir in grated cheddar cheese.
• Assemble: Combine the cauliflower and caramelized shallots in a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over and bake with breadcrumbs until golden and bubbling.
• Result: The sweetness of the caramelized shallots pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce, creating a more flavorful and well-rounded dish.

Slimming World Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Low-Fat Yogurt

Difference:

• By using low-fat yogurt instead of cream or whole milk, this variation lightens the dish while still offering a creamy, tangy base.
• The yogurt reduces the calorie content but keeps the dish rich and satisfying.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until tender.
• Make Sauce: In a saucepan, create a lighter cheese sauce by substituting low-fat yogurt for cream or whole milk. Stir in grated cheese (preferably a lower-fat variety) and season with salt and pepper.
• Assemble: Pour the yogurt-based cheese sauce over the cauliflower and bake with a light sprinkling of breadcrumbs on top.
• Result: The yogurt adds a tangy creaminess that helps to keep the dish light yet satisfying, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Morrisons Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Bacon Lardons

Difference:

• Crispy bacon lardons bring a salty, crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the creamy cauliflower cheese, adding a savory depth to the dish.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until tender.
• Make Sauce: Prepare a classic cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and cheddar.
• Bacon: Fry bacon lardons until crispy, then crumble them into the sauce just before pouring over the cauliflower.
• Assemble: Pour the sauce over the cauliflower, top with more cheese, and bake until golden and bubbling.
• Result: The bacon adds a savory, crispy bite to the soft, cheesy cauliflower, making it a perfect comfort food dish.

Waitrose Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Crispy Onions

Difference:

• The addition of crispy fried onions provides an extra layer of crunch and a savory, oniony flavor that complements the creamy, cheesy cauliflower.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until tender.
• Make Sauce: Create a creamy cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and whisking in milk. Stir in grated cheddar cheese and season to taste.
• Assemble: Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, then top with crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor.
• Bake: Bake the dish until the cheese is bubbling and the onions are golden and crispy.
• Result: The crispy onions offer a crunchy, flavorful contrast to the creamy cheese sauce, adding an extra element of texture to the dish.

Ottolenghi Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Za’atar and Tahini

Difference:

• Adding Middle Eastern flavors like za’atar and tahini creates a rich, creamy cheese sauce with earthy and tangy notes that elevate the dish to something unique and exotic.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Roast cauliflower florets for added caramelization and depth of flavor.
• Make Sauce: Mix tahini with lemon juice, garlic, and a small amount of water or milk to create a creamy, slightly tangy dressing. Stir in za’atar for a distinctive herby flavor.
• Assemble: Pour the tahini sauce over the roasted cauliflower and sprinkle with cheese before baking.
• Result: The tahini sauce brings a rich, nutty flavor to the dish, while the za’atar adds a zesty and aromatic finish, making this a truly unique cauliflower cheese.

Iceland Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Crispy Bacon Bits

Difference:

• Adding crispy bacon bits brings savory flavor and a satisfying crunch to the dish, while still keeping it creamy and cheesy.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until tender.
• Make Sauce: Create a cheese sauce using butter, milk, flour, and cheddar cheese.
• Bacon Bits: Fry bacon until crispy, then chop into small bits. Stir the bacon bits into the sauce just before pouring it over the cauliflower.
• Assemble: Pour the sauce over the cauliflower and top with more cheese, then bake until golden.
• Result: The bacon adds a crunchy, salty contrast to the creamy sauce, making the dish extra indulgent.

Grilled Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Charred Cauliflower

Difference:

• Grilling the cauliflower before adding the cheese sauce gives it a smoky, charred flavor, adding complexity and depth to the dish.

Instructions:

• Grill Cauliflower: Preheat the grill and char cauliflower florets until they develop dark spots and a smoky flavor.
• Make Sauce: Prepare a creamy cheese sauce with butter, milk, and cheese.
• Assemble: Pour the cheese sauce over the grilled cauliflower, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until the top is golden.
• Result: The charred cauliflower adds a smoky, grilled flavor, which complements the rich, creamy cheese sauce.

James Martin Cauliflower Cheese Variation: Truffle and Parmesan

Difference:

• Truffle oil adds a luxurious, earthy flavor, while Parmesan gives the dish a sharp, nutty kick. Together, they elevate the cauliflower cheese to a more refined, gourmet level.

Instructions:

• Prepare: Steam cauliflower florets until tender.
• Make Sauce: Prepare a classic cheese sauce, but add a few drops of truffle oil for depth and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
• Assemble: Pour the sauce over the cauliflower and top with more Parmesan before baking until golden.
• Result: The truffle oil adds a luxurious, earthy undertone, while the Parmesan enhances the dish with a sharp, nutty finish.

Nutritional Benefits of Cauliflower Cheese

Cauliflower cheese is not only a delicious and comforting dish but also offers several nutritional benefits. It provides a good balance of protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to a meal.

The values may vary depending on the type of cheese and milk used.

Conclusion

Cauliflower cheese is a timeless dish that brings comfort, flavor, and warmth to any meal. Whether served as a side dish for a Sunday roast or enjoyed as a standalone dish, its creamy texture, and rich taste make it a firm favorite.

With the right ingredients, techniques, and a few simple tips, you can create the perfect cauliflower cheese recipe every time. Experiment with different cheeses, add your own twist and enjoy this classic British dish at its very best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cauliflower cheese in advance?

Yes. Assemble the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What is the best way to reheat cauliflower cheese?

Reheat in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes, or in the microwave for 2–3 minutes.

Can I freeze cauliflower cheese?

Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze before baking and cook from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 30–35 minutes.

How do I stop my cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Add the cheese off the heat and stir gently until fully melted.

Can I make cauliflower cheese without an oven?

Yes. Cook everything in a pan on the stovetop, stirring until the cheese sauce thickens.

Cauliflower Cheese Receipe

Freya

Cauliflower cheese recipe is a traditional British comfort food that dates back to the 18th century. It is believed to have originated from the classic French cauliflower gratin, but the British version focuses more on a rich cheese sauce rather than a cream-based one.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine british

Servings 8 people

Calories 315 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 large cauliflower
• 50 g butter
• 50 g plain flour
• 500 ml whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 150 g mature Cheddar cheese
• 50 g Gruyère or Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Breadcrumbs
• A pinch of nutmeg enhances the flavour of the cheese sauce
• Cooked bacon or ham adds a savoury and smoky twist
• Paprika or cayenne pepper provides a hint of spice

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the cauliflower florets and blanch for 5 minutes until just tender. This helps soften the cauliflower while keeping its shape intact.
• Drain the cauliflower well and set aside. Ensuring it is properly drained prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
• Add the mustard, salt, and pepper, followed by the grated cheeses. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas Mark 6.
• Arrange the blanched cauliflower in an ovenproof dish, ensuring the florets are spread out evenly.
• Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, making sure it is fully covered.
• Sprinkle extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top for an added crispy texture.
• Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and bubbling.
• Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving, as this helps the sauce thicken slightly.

Keyword cauliflower cheese recipe