Description
This Baked Cauliflower recipe transforms a simple vegetable into a cheesy, flavorful, and satisfying dish. The cauliflower is lightly boiled to tenderize it, then coated in a creamy Parmesan and cheddar cheese mixture, seasoned with garlic and herbs, and baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy-to-make side dish that’s sure to impress, even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a standout addition to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Additional dried parsley for garnish
- Salt for boiling
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the cauliflower thoroughly. Cut off the tough stem and any hard pieces, keeping the head of cauliflower intact.
Step 2: Boil the Cauliflower: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully place the cauliflower head into the boiling water. Boil for 7 minutes to partially cook and tenderize the cauliflower.
Step 3: Drain and Dry: Remove the cauliflower from the pot and drain well. Gently pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the cheese mixture adhere better and prevents a soggy result.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, white cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and dried parsley. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step 5: Coat the Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower head in a baking dish. Evenly coat the entire cauliflower head with the cheese mixture, ensuring it covers all the nooks and crannies.
Step 6: Season and Bake: Sprinkle garlic powder, black pepper, and additional dried parsley over the coated cauliflower.
Step 7: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and transforms cauliflower into a dish that even vegetable skeptics will enjoy. The creamy, cheesy coating combined with the aromatic garlic and herbs creates a flavor explosion that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with almost any main course, and it’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken, steak, or pork.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light and balanced meal.
- Serve alongside pasta dishes for added flavor and texture.
- Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips:
- Don’t Overboil: Be careful not to overboil the cauliflower, as it will become too soft and mushy. 7 minutes is usually the perfect time to partially cook it.
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the cauliflower is well-dried after boiling to prevent the cheese mixture from becoming watery.
- Customize Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, mozzarella, or a sharp cheddar, to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Add Spice: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture or sprinkle them over the cauliflower before baking.
- Broil for Extra Color: For an extra golden-brown and crispy top, broil the cauliflower for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 27 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
This Baked Cauliflower recipe is a delicious and easy way to elevate your vegetable game. The combination of tender cauliflower, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings makes it a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a comforting indulgence, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
A: While fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen cauliflower florets if needed. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before boiling to remove excess moisture. Keep in mind that frozen cauliflower may be a bit softer than fresh cauliflower.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower and coat it with the cheese mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the garlic powder, pepper, parsley and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.
Q3: What other seasonings can I add to the cheese mixture?
A: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor to your liking. Some great additions include onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Q4: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, and you can use any cheese that melts well. Gruyere, mozzarella, provolone, or a sharp cheddar would all be delicious alternatives or additions to the Parmesan and white cheddar.
Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. Just be sure to double-check the labels of your mayonnaise and cheese to ensure they are gluten-free if you have a strict gluten-free diet.
