Whole Baked Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

Serving Details

• Yields: 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes

Recipe Description

This hearty and comforting dish is a healthier twist on the classic cauliflower cheese. A whole cauliflower is roasted until tender, then topped with a creamy cheese sauce and baked until golden brown and bubbly.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:**

• 1 large head of cauliflower
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:**

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

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the cauliflower into florets, leaving the core intact.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until tender.
5. While the cauliflower is roasting, make the cheese sauce.
6. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
7. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
8. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
9. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
10. Stir in the grated cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
11. Once the cauliflower is cooked, transfer it to a baking dish.
12. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower.
13. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and golden brown.
14. Serve immediately.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheddar and Gruyère cheese.
• You can add other vegetables to the dish, such as broccoli or carrots.
• Serve the cauliflower cheese with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 15g