Roasted Cauliflower Cheese: A Delightful Blend of Flavors

Roasted cauliflower cheese is a delectable dish that combines the simplicity of roasted cauliflower with the creaminess of cheese, resulting in a flavourful and satisfying meal. This recipe offers a delightful blend of flavours and textures, with the cauliflower roasted to crispy perfection and smothered in a rich cheese sauce. It’s the perfect dish for a comforting meal or a delightful side dish that will impress your guests. So, let’s dive in and learn how to create this deliciously crispy roasted cauliflower cheese.

Ingredients:

– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 50g butter
– 50g plain flour
– 500ml milk
– 200g cheddar cheese, grated
– 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp nutmeg
– Fresh parsley, for garnish

Roasting the Cauliflower:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower, then cut it into florets.
3. Place the cauliflower florets on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.

Making the Cheese Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes to make a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to eliminate any lumps.
4. Cook the sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
6. Add the Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Place the roasted cauliflower in a baking dish.
2. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle some extra grated cheese on top for an added cheesy crust.
4. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Once done, remove the cauliflower cheese from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy this delightful roasted cauliflower cheese hot as a main dish or as a delicious side. The crispy roasted cauliflower paired with the creamy, cheesy sauce creates a mouthwatering combination of flavours that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a comforting meal or a cheese lover in search of a new favourite dish, this roasted cauliflower cheese recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.