Creamy Cauliflower Cheese | The Perfect Christmas Side

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while still providing flavor.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water + powdered milk

Almond milk is lower in calories and suitable for lactose intolerance.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier and adds a different flavor profile.

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: ground oats

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Ground oats are a healthier, gluten-free option.

Slice off any leaves from the cauliflower and trim around the root.

Cut the cauliflower into even-sized florets, including the stem.

Place the florets into a large roasting dish (about 30 cm in length).

Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the cauliflower and sprinkle with salt and 20 cracks of ground white pepper.

Mix the cauliflower with your hands to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Transfer the roasting dish to a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) and roast for about 20 to 25 minutes until the tops are lightly charred.

In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, add 100 g of unsalted cubed butter and allow it to melt until it comes to a slight boil.

Add 50 g of plain all-purpose flour to the melted butter and mix gently for about 2 minutes to form a roux.

Gradually whisk in 420 mL of full-fat milk and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens.

Add 420 mL of thickened cream and 1 teaspoon of grated nutmeg, seasoning with salt and ground white pepper, and whisk until combined.

Remove from heat and add 120 g of mature cheddar cheese and 80 g of gruyere cheese, mixing until combined, even if the cheese isn't fully melted.

Carefully remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven and pour the cheese sauce over it, ensuring to cover all florets.

Grate additional mature cheddar cheese over the top if desired.

Return the dish to the oven and roast for about 35 minutes until the top is beautifully golden.

Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens