Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower Bake
This Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower Bake is a comforting blend of tender cauliflower and rich, creamy cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection, this dish features a golden, crispy topping that perfectly complements the velvety cheese sauce. Ideal for family dinners or festive gatherings, it transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 1.5 lbs), cut into florets
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Gradually stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Fold steamed cauliflower into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the bake (150g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.