Cauliflower cheese is a classic dish that combines cauliflower with a creamy cheese sauce, often baked until golden and bubbly. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into florets and rinse them under cold water.
- Steam the cauliflower: You can either boil the cauliflower in salted water until tender-crisp (about 5-7 minutes) or steam them until just tender. Drain well.
- Make the cheese sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine cauliflower and cheese sauce:
- Place the steamed cauliflower florets in a baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower, making sure all pieces are coated.
- Bake:
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
- Enjoy as a side dish or a comforting main course!
This dish is versatile and can be customized with different cheeses or additional ingredients like herbs or crispy bacon. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a comforting dish for gatherings.
3.5
