Introduction

Baked Cheddar Cauliflower is a comforting and cheesy side dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal. Tender cauliflower florets are smothered in a creamy sharp cheddar sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s a delicious way to enjoy vegetables with a rich, cheesy twist.

A close-up view of a baked cauliflower cheese dish in a dark baking tray, showing 9 large cauliflower florets arranged in rows, each covered with a thick, creamy cheese sauce that is golden-brown and slightly crispy on top. The cheese has bubbled and browned in spots, creating a rich, textured surface, and chopped green herbs are sprinkled evenly over the top for color contrast. The cauliflower beneath is soft and white with some browned edges peeking through the cheese. The baking tray edges are visible, with melted cheese and sauce slightly overflowing along the sides. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 pounds), cut into florets
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Optional: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)
Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives (for garnish)
Optional: Cooked bacon bits (for smoky flavor)
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the oven rack in the middle position to ensure even baking.
Step 2: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a clean towel.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden without browning.
Step 4: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with the cheese sauce, making sure all pieces are well coated.
Step 7: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the top is golden brown.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs or cooked bacon bits if using. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use sharp cheddar cheese for bold flavor, or mix in smoked gouda or mozzarella for a different twist.
For extra crunch, add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter as a topping before baking.
Try adding cooked bacon bits or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a smoky and spicy flavor.
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add color and a fresh note when sprinkled on top before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave until hot. This dish can also be frozen; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a baked dish with large, chunky cauliflower florets as the main layer, covered by a thick layer of creamy melted cheese that is golden brown and bubbly on top. The edges of the cauliflower have browned spots, showing a slight crispiness. Scattered on top are small pieces of chopped green herbs, adding a fresh color contrast. The dish is in a rectangular white baking dish with slightly darkened, caramelized edges. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Thaw and drain it well before combining with the cheese sauce to avoid excess moisture.

How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

For a vegetarian version, simply omit bacon bits. To make it vegan, substitute the cheddar cheese with vegan cheese alternatives, use a plant-based milk, and replace butter with a vegetable oil or vegan margarine.