Prepare to transform the humble cauliflower into a mind-blowing culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This British-inspired All Dressed Cauliflower Cheese is not just another vegetable dish - it's a creamy, cheesy, crispy sensation that turns a simple vegetable into a show-stopping side dish or light main course. Whether you're a vegetable skeptic or a cheese lover, this recipe promises to revolutionize your dinner table with its irresistible combination of tender cauliflower, luxurious cheese sauce, and golden crispy topping.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cups cheese sauce
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (Cheddar)
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and cut it into even-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for uniform cooking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the cauliflower florets and blanch for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still firm. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a separate saucepan, prepare the cheese sauce by combining milk, grated cheese, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk continuously over medium heat until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Transfer the blanched cauliflower florets to the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower, ensuring all florets are well-coated.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with additional grated cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cheese-covered cauliflower.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the cauliflower is tender.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
- Serve hot as a side dish or light main course, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose a fresh, firm cauliflower with tight, white florets for the best texture and flavor.
- Don't overcook the cauliflower during blanching - you want it slightly tender but still firm to prevent mushiness.
- Use a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and gruyère for a more complex flavor profile.
- For extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs in a pan with a little butter before sprinkling on top.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
