Cauliflower Cheese Recipe 

December 8, 2025
Cauliflower Cheese Recipe 

Cauliflower Cheese Recipe  is a classic comfort food. This delicious dish combines tender cauliflower with creamy cheese sauce.

It’s perfect as a side dish or main meal. The Cauliflower Cheese Recipe is simple and quick to make. You only need a few basic ingredients.

Anyone can learn how to make Cauliflower Cheese at home. This recipe brings warmth to your dinner table. The golden, bubbly top makes it irresistible.

Kids and adults both love this dish. Let me show you the ingredients for Cauliflower Cheese and the easy steps.

You’ll have this tasty meal ready in no time. Trust me, it’s worth every bite!

When I First Discovered Cauliflower Cheese

I first tried cauliflower cheese at my friend’s house. Her grandmother made it for Sunday dinner. The smell filled the entire kitchen.

I took one bite and fell in love instantly. The creamy sauce coated every cauliflower piece perfectly. The cheese on top was crispy and golden.

I asked for the recipe right away. She smiled and said it was simple. That day changed my cooking life forever. Now I make it for my family weekly.

They always ask for seconds and thirds. This dish brings back those warm memories every time.

Cauliflower Cheese

Equipment List

  • Medium saucepan
  • Colander
  • Baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Cheese grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients You Need for Cauliflower Cheese

  • 1 large cauliflower head (about 800g)
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Step-by-Step Guide

  • Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
  • Bring a large pot of water to boil.
  • Add a pinch of salt to the water.
  • Boil the cauliflower for 5-6 minutes.
  • It should be tender but still firm.
  • Drain well and set aside in your baking dish.
  • Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add flour and whisk for one minute.
  • This creates a smooth paste called roux.
  • Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly.
  • Keep stirring to avoid lumps forming.
  • Cook until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
  • The sauce should coat the back of your spoon.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat immediately.
  • Stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Add salt, pepper, and mustard powder now.
  • Mix until the cheese melts completely.
  • The sauce should be smooth and creamy.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower florets.
  • Make sure all pieces are well coated.
  • Sprinkle remaining cheese on top evenly.
  • Add breadcrumbs for extra crunch if you like.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  • The top should be beautifully browned.
  • Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  • This helps the sauce set a little.
  • Serve hot as a side or main dish.
  • Enjoy your homemade cauliflower cheese!

Tips to Make the Best Cauliflower Cheese

  • Don’t overcook the cauliflower at the boiling stage.
  • Mushy cauliflower doesn’t taste good in this dish.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
  • Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents.
  • Whole milk makes the creamiest sauce possible.
  • You can use half-and-half for extra richness.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg for deeper flavor.
  • Mix different cheeses like Gruyere or Parmesan.
  • Make the sauce thick enough to coat properly.
  • Thin sauce makes the dish watery and bland.
  • Broil for 2 minutes at the end for extra browning.
  • Watch carefully so it doesn’t burn quickly.

FAQs about Cauliflower Cheese

Q: Can I make cauliflower cheese ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare it beforehand easily. Assemble everything and refrigerate before baking.

Q: How do I store leftover cauliflower cheese?

A: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze cauliflower cheese?

A: Yes, freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating properly.

Q: What can I serve with cauliflower cheese?

A: It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or grilled meat. Serve it alongside fresh green salad too.

Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower instead?

A: Yes, frozen cauliflower works well in this recipe. Just thaw and drain it thoroughly first.

Final Thoughts

This Cauliflower Cheese Recipe is truly comforting and delicious. It’s easy enough for busy weeknight dinners.

The creamy cheese sauce makes everything taste amazing. You now know exactly how to make Cauliflower Cheese perfectly.

The ingredients for Cauliflower Cheese are simple and affordable. Your family will love this classic dish. Give it a try this weekend!

You won’t regret making this golden, cheesy goodness. Share your results with friends and family. Happy cooking and enjoy every creamy bite!

More Amazing Recipes

Cauliflower Cheese Recipe 

Cauliflower Cheese Recipe 

Cauliflower Cheese Recipe  is a classic comfort food. This delicious dish combines tender cauliflower with creamy cheese sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine British
Servings 6
Calories 285 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Colander
  • Baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Cheese grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large cauliflower head about 800g
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder optional
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs optional for topping

Instructions
 

  • Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
  • Bring a large pot of water to boil.
  • Add a pinch of salt to the water.
  • Boil the cauliflower for 5-6 minutes.
  • It should be tender but still firm.
  • Drain well and set aside in your baking dish.
  • Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add flour and whisk for one minute.
  • This creates a smooth paste called roux.
  • Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly.
  • Keep stirring to avoid lumps forming.
  • Cook until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
  • The sauce should coat the back of your spoon.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat immediately.
  • Stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Add salt, pepper, and mustard powder now.
  • Mix until the cheese melts completely.
  • The sauce should be smooth and creamy.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower florets.
  • Make sure all pieces are well coated.
  • Sprinkle remaining cheese on top evenly.
  • Add breadcrumbs for extra crunch if you like.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  • The top should be beautifully browned.
  • Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  • This helps the sauce set a little.
  • Serve hot as a side or main dish.
  • Enjoy your homemade cauliflower cheese!

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the cauliflower at the boiling stage.
  • Mushy cauliflower doesn’t taste good in this dish.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
  • Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents.
  • Whole milk makes the creamiest sauce possible.
  • You can use half-and-half for extra richness.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg for deeper flavor.
  • Mix different cheeses like Gruyere or Parmesan.
  • Make the sauce thick enough to coat properly.
  • Thin sauce makes the dish watery and bland.
  • Broil for 2 minutes at the end for extra browning.
  • Watch carefully so it doesn’t burn quickly.
Keyword Cauliflower Cheese Recipe 

Tasha Velez
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My name is Tasha Velez. I love food and traveling! I'm lucky to be married to the man of my dreams. We have a sweet little girl who makes everyone smile!