Baked Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

### Instructions

#### 1. Prepare the Cauliflower
1. Start by boiling the cauliflower. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5-6 minutes until they are tender but still firm. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to soften when baked.
3. Drain the cauliflower well in a colander, making sure to remove any excess water. This will help the sauce stay thick and creamy when baking.

#### 2. Make the Cheese Sauce
1. While the cauliflower is boiling, start preparing the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux (this thickens the sauce).
3. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and starts to bubble.
4. Stir in the grated cheese and Dijon mustard (if using), and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted, and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

#### 3. Assemble the Baked Cauliflower Cheese
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the cooked cauliflower florets into a lightly greased baking dish (a 9×9-inch dish works well).
3. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower, making sure all the florets are covered.
4. For an added crunch, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top, then drizzle with melted butter. You can also sprinkle a little extra cheese over the top for an even cheesier finish!

#### 4. Bake the Cauliflower Cheese
1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
2. If you like an extra-crispy top, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

#### 5. Serve and Enjoy
1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

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### Tips for Perfect Baked Cauliflower Cheese

1. **Don’t Overcook the Cauliflower:** You want the cauliflower to retain its shape and texture after baking, so make sure it’s not too soft when you boil it. Slightly undercooked cauliflower will bake perfectly in the cheese sauce.
2. **Use Full-Fat Milk and Cheese:** For the creamiest and richest sauce, opt for full-fat milk and a good quality cheese like sharp cheddar.
3. **Customizing the Cheese Sauce:** Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your taste. A mix of cheddar and Gruyère, or even adding a bit of blue cheese, can add a delightful twist.
4. **Make It Ahead:** You can prepare this dish in advance by assembling it, then covering and refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes of baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

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### Variations to Try

– **Spicy Baked Cauliflower Cheese:** Add some finely chopped chili peppers to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
– **Herbed Baked Cauliflower Cheese:** Mix in some dried or fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the cheese sauce for added flavor.
– **Add Protein:** For a heartier meal, try adding cooked chicken, bacon bits, or ham to the cauliflower before pouring over the cheese sauce.
– **Vegan Version:** Use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and dairy-free cheese alternatives for a vegan twist on this dish.

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### Why Baked Cauliflower Cheese is So Special

Baked Cauliflower Cheese combines the best of both worlds: the earthy, mild flavor of cauliflower and the rich, indulgent creaminess of cheese. It’s the perfect dish when you need something comforting and satisfying but still want to incorporate a vegetable into your meal. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds an extra layer of texture that pairs beautifully with the soft, cheesy cauliflower underneath.

Whether you enjoy it as a side dish to complement a roast, a cozy main dish for a vegetarian meal, or a dish to impress your guests at dinner parties, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

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### Conclusion

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish, **Baked Cauliflower Cheese** is the way to go. With its creamy cheese sauce and golden, crispy topping, this dish will warm you from the inside out. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy any cheese lover. Try it for your next meal, and enjoy the delicious, cheesy goodness that’s bound to become a staple in your cooking repertoire!