When I first encountered creamy cauliflower, I was skeptical. Could a humble vegetable truly transform into a luxurious, creamy dish that rivals even the creamiest of potatoes? One bite, and I was hooked. The velvety texture and rich flavor had me convinced that this was a dish worth mastering.
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Creamy Cauliflower
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Creamy Cauliflower
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoon flour
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup mozzarella shredded
- ½ cup cheddar shredded
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon dry thyme
- 1 kg (2 pounds) cauliflower florets
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
- extra cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
- MIx cauliflower with olive oil, salt and pepper. Transfer onto a parchment covered baking sheet. Bake for 40 minutes.1 kg (2 pounds) cauliflower florets, olive oil
- Melt butter in a saute pan placed over medium heat. Saute garlic and thyme for 30 seconds. Mix in flour and cook for 30 seconds more. Pour milk into roux and cook for 10 minutes or until the sauce becomes thick and bubbly.3 tablespoon butter, 3 tablespoon flour, 2 garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dry thyme, 2 cups milk
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, paprika and mustard. Add both types of shredded cheese and keep the sauce over the low heat, mixing constantly, until the cheese has melted completely.½ cup mozzarella, 1 teaspoon mustard, 1 teaspoon paprika, salt and pepper, ½ cup cheddar
- Combine baked cauliflower with cheese sauce and transfer into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle some more cheese on top and bake for 35-40 minutes.extra cheese for topping
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoon flour
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup mozzarella, shredded
- ½ cup cheddar, shredded
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dry thyme
- 1 kg (2 pounds) cauliflower florets
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
- extra cheese for topping
🔪How to Make This?
Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
MIx cauliflower with olive oil, salt and pepper. Transfer onto a parchment covered baking sheet. Bake for 40 minutes.
Melt butter in a saute pan placed over medium heat. Saute garlic and thyme for 30 seconds. Mix in flour and cook for 30 seconds more. Pour milk into roux and cook for 10 minutes or until the sauce becomes thick and bubbly.
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, paprika and mustard. Add both types of shredded cheese and keep the sauce over the low heat, mixing constantly, until the cheese has melted completely.
Combine baked cauliflower with cheese sauce and transfer into a casserole dish.
Sprinkle some more cheese on top and bake for 35-40 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Dish?
Perfect Pairings
Creamy cauliflower pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, such as chicken, beef, or pork. Its mild flavor complements the savory notes of these proteins, creating a balanced meal.
Vegetarian Options
For a vegetarian meal, serve your creamy cauliflower with roasted vegetables or a hearty quinoa salad. The combination of textures and flavors will make for a satisfying and nutritious dish.
Elegant Entertaining
If you're entertaining guests, consider serving creamy cauliflower as an elegant side dish. Pair it with a glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir to enhance its flavors and impress your guests.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Achieving Ultra-Creamy Texture
For an ultra-creamy texture, consider adding a bit of butter to your cauliflower mixture at the table. This extra fat will help achieve a velvety smooth finish that is absolutely irresistible.
Experiment with Flavors
Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors and seasonings. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, earthy note, or some grated Parmesan cheese for a savory twist.
Make Ahead for Convenience
Creamy cauliflower can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep and busy weeknights.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Is Creamy Cauliflower Healthy?
Absolutely! Creamy cauliflower is a nutritious dish that is low in calories and high in fiber. It's a great way to enjoy a creamy, comforting dish without the guilt.
Can I Make It Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make creamy cauliflower vegan by using plant-based cream or milk alternatives as well as vegan cheese alternatives. Coconut milk, almond milk, or cashew cream are all great options.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Creamy cauliflower will keep for up to three days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
Don't you just love a good vegetable side dish or main dish? I do. Veggies just make my world go 'round. So you know, since I'm such a vegetable-connoisseur, that these recommendations are going to be amazing on your table:
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