Cauliflower with cheese

Cauliflower with cheese is an easy-to-make dish featuring tender cauliflower topped with rich, melted parmesan and cheddar cheeses. Ideal as a comforting side or light main course, it’s a simple way to elevate this vegetable.

04 Dec 2025
Cook time 105 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 cauliflower
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/3 cup cheddar cheese

Cauliflower with cheese is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the wholesome goodness of cauliflower with the rich, savory flavors of parmesan and cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting side dish or a simple main course, this recipe is sure to please both vegetarians and cheese lovers alike. In just a few steps, you can transform a humble cauliflower into a cheesy, crave-worthy dish.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower, and then cut it into florets. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and drain.

2. Cook the Cauliflower:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the boiling water and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Be careful not to overcook; the cauliflower should be tender but still hold its shape.
- Drain the cauliflower and set aside.

3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
While the cauliflower is cooking, you can grate the Parmesan and cheddar cheese if not already grated. Set aside.

4. Combine and Melt the Cheese:
- Place the drained cauliflower into an oven-safe baking dish.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the cauliflower.
- Follow with the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it's spread evenly on top.

5. Melt the Cheese in the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the oven is heated, place the baking dish in the oven.
- Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and begins to turn golden brown.

6. Serve:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking cauliflower with cheese is a straightforward process that results in a delicious, cheesy, and nutritious dish. Whether you are looking for a quick side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course, this recipe is sure to impress. By following these easy steps, you'll create a meal that is both scrumptious and full of flavor, guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.

Cauliflower with cheese FAQ:

How do I know when the cauliflower is done cooking?

The cauliflower is done cooking when it is tender enough to be pierced with a fork, typically after 5-7 minutes of boiling. Be cautious not to overcook, as it should retain its shape.

Can I make substitutions for the cheeses used in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the cheeses. For example, mozzarella or gouda can replace cheddar, and pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can substitute for parmesan, depending on dietary preferences.

What is the best way to store leftover Cauliflower with Cheese?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What size baking dish should I use for this recipe?

A medium-sized oven-safe baking dish (around 8x8 inches) is suitable for this recipe to ensure even melting of the cheese over the cauliflower.

How can I tell if the cheese is fully melted and ready to serve?

The cheese is ready when it is fully melted and has started to turn golden brown, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).

Tips:

- Choose fresh cauliflower: Select a firm, white cauliflower head with no brown spots or blemishes for the best results.

- Grate your own cheese: Using freshly grated cheese melts better and offers a more intense flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.

- Steam or blanch the cauliflower: Cooking the cauliflower briefly before adding the cheese helps retain its crunch while ensuring it's tender enough to absorb the cheesy goodness.

- Combine cheeses for depth: Using a mix of parmesan and cheddar cheese creates a more complex flavor profile that enhances the dish.

- Broil for a crispy crust: Place the cauliflower under the broiler for a few minutes after adding the cheese to achieve a bubbly and golden-brown crust.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 54kcal
Protein 3.86g
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 2.25g
Sugar 2.16g
Fat 2.42g

Cauliflower with cheese