Cauliflower is one of the most underrated vegetables, yet it's incredibly versatile and nutritious! Whether it's roasted, stir-fried, added to soups, or even made into rice, cauliflower is a true superstar in the kitchen. Today, we’re focusing on one of the best ways to enjoy this humble vegetable: Cauliflower Cheese.

This recipe is not only delicious but can also be made healthier by using low-fat ingredients. Cauliflower cheese is the perfect accompaniment to any main meal, especially a roast dinner. It’s also a hit with kids, making it a family-friendly option that everyone will love.

Why Cauliflower Cheese is a Family Favourite

Cauliflower is packed with health benefits. It’s high in vitamins C and K, a good source of folate (which supports cell growth), and is both fat-free and cholesterol-free. When it comes to nutrition, the cauliflower is truly a powerhouse.

Ingredients for the Perfect Cauliflower Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to create this cheesy, comforting dish:

• 2 Tbsp salted butter
• 3 heaped Tbsp plain or all-purpose flour
• 250 ml milk
• Freshly grated cheese (as much or as little as you like)
• 1 whole cauliflower, chopped into chunks and washed
• 1Tsp mustard powder (optional)
• Leftover veg (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cauliflower Cheese

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Fridge Friendly: 3 days
• Freezer Friendly: 3 months

Directions – Making the Sauce:

1. Melt the Butter: Add the butter to a saucepan and melt it over medium heat.
2. Create a Roux: Add the flour to the melted butter and stir with a wooden spoon until it forms a sticky consistency. Turn off the heat.
3. Add Milk Gradually: Slowly add the milk bit by bit, stirring with a wooden spoon until a creamy paste is formed.
4. Whisk and Cook: Turn the heat back on to medium, switch to a balloon whisk, and continue to add milk gradually while whisking. Keep whisking until the sauce is thick and pourable.
5. Season and Optional Add-ins: If using mustard powder, add it now and whisk it in. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Directions – Preparing the Cauliflower:

1. Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium heat.
2. Boil the Cauliflower: Bring a pan of water with a pinch of salt to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the cauliflower pieces and cook for about 10 minutes until just tender.
3. Drain and Dry: Using a colander, drain the cauliflower and lay it flat on a tea towel to dry. Ensure all water has evaporated.
4. Assemble and Grill: Place the dried cauliflower into an oven-safe bakeware dish. Pour the sauce over the cauliflower, top with grated cheese, and grill until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.

Tips for the Best Cauliflower Cheese

• Ensure the cauliflower and any additional vegetables are completely dry before adding the sauce. This prevents the dish from becoming watery.
• Customise the recipe by adding other vegetables like broccoli or leeks for extra flavour and nutrition.

If you make this delicious dish, please tag @heartcottagelanedxb and share it with us—we’d love to see how you’ve served yours! For more such recipes, you can check out our blog section.

FAQ About Cauliflower Cheese

1. Can Cauliflower Cheese Be Frozen? Yes, cauliflower cheese can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure it's fully cooled before placing it in an airtight container.
2. How Do I Make Low-Fat Cauliflower Cheese? Simply use low-fat milk and a reduced amount of cheese. You can also replace the butter with a light alternative.