Description
This Baked Cauliflower Cheese is a creamy, cheesy gratin-style casserole that transforms cauliflower into the ultimate comfort food. Tender florets are smothered in a rich three-cheese sauce, topped with buttery panko crumbs, and baked until golden and bubbling. Perfect as a side dish for roasts, a potluck crowd-pleaser, or even a hearty vegetarian main.
Ingredients
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2 heads cauliflower
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70 g + 15 g (¼ cup + 1 tbsp) butter, divided
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½ onion, finely diced
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30 g (¼ cup) flour
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480 ml (2 cups) milk
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1 tsp dry mustard powder
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Pinch nutmeg
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½ tsp kosher salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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115 g (1 cup) shredded mature English cheddar, divided
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115 g (1 cup) shredded Double Gloucester cheese, divided
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115 g (1 cup) shredded Red Leicester cheese, divided
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30 g (½ cup) panko breadcrumbs
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking dish.
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Break cauliflower into florets. Steam or boil for 5–7 minutes until just tender but still firm. Drain well and place in dish.
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In a saucepan, melt 70 g butter. Add onion and cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
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Stir in flour and cook 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.
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Gradually whisk in milk, ½ cup at a time, until smooth. Bring to a gentle boil.
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Season with mustard powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer 2–3 minutes until thickened.
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Remove from heat and stir in 85 g (about ¾ cup) of each cheese until melted.
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Pour sauce evenly over cauliflower.
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Melt remaining 15 g butter. Mix with panko, parsley, and remaining cheese. Sprinkle over top.
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Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until golden and bubbling. Serve hot.
Notes
Steam cauliflower instead of overboiling to avoid sogginess.
Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack can substitute if British cheeses aren’t available.
Assemble ahead and refrigerate, then bake fresh when needed.
Add cayenne or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for extra heat.
Keeps well for 4 days refrigerated; freezes with slight texture change.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Vegetarian Main
- Method: Baking / Casserole
- Cuisine: British