Cauliflower cheese is one of those timeless comfort dishes that’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty side for your Sunday roast or enjoying it as a vegetarian main, this dish never fails to satisfy. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook cauliflower cheese perfectly, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into an easy-to-follow recipe that guarantees a golden, bubbling, cheesy delight every time.
What You’ll Need
– 1 large cauliflower, broken into florets
– 40g (1½ oz) butter
– 40g (1½ oz) plain flour
– 400ml (14 fl oz) milk
– 1 tsp English mustard (optional, but adds a lovely kick)
– 100g (3½ oz) mature cheddar cheese, grated
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Cauliflower Cheese
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
Start by washing your cauliflower thoroughly. Place the florets in a large pot of salted boiling water and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes. The goal is to get the cauliflower almost tender but still firm – you don’t want it mushy! Once done, drain well in a colander and let it dry. This step is crucial to avoid a watery cheese sauce later on.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
While the cauliflower is cooking, it’s time to prepare the luscious cheese sauce:
– Melt the butter in a heavy-based saucepan over gentle heat.
– Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, making a roux.
– Gradually add the milk a little at a time, whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth.
– Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then simmer for 2 minutes until it thickens.
– Stir in the English mustard and two-thirds of the grated cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan)/Gas Mark 5. Place the cauliflower florets in an ovenproof dish and pour the cheese sauce evenly over them, making sure everything is well coated. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top to create that irresistible golden crust.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling. If you want an extra crispy finish, you can pop it under the grill for a few minutes at the end.
Tips for Perfect Cauliflower Cheese
– Don’t overcook the cauliflower: Slightly undercooked florets hold their shape better and won’t turn mushy after baking.
– Drain thoroughly: Excess water from the cauliflower can make your sauce runny. Pat dry if needed.
– Use mature cheddar: It gives the sauce a rich, tangy flavor and melts beautifully. You can also mix in other cheeses like Red Leicester or Parmesan for extra depth.
– Make ahead: You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.
– Add a twist: For a bit of indulgence, top with crispy bacon or sun-dried tomatoes before grilling.
Variations to Try
– Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour or cornflour for the sauce.
– Creamy shortcut: Some recipes use double cream instead of making a roux-based sauce for quicker prep and extra creaminess.
– Herbs & spices: A pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder can enhance the flavor subtly.
Serving Suggestions
Cauliflower cheese pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, baked potatoes, or even as a standalone vegetarian main. Its creamy texture and cheesy topping make it a crowd-pleaser at any meal.
Cauliflower cheese is easy to make, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s rich in flavor and perfect for cozy dinners. Give it a try and enjoy the cheesy goodness!