Few dishes hit the comfort food sweet spot quite like a creamy, bubbling cauliflower cheese bake. It’s hearty, rich, and brings a sense of home to any dinner table. If you’re looking for a foolproof recipe that delivers golden roasted cauliflower smothered in a velvety cheese sauce, you’re in the right place.
1. Easy Cauliflower Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Roasted Cauliflower
- 1kg / 2 lb cauliflower florets (from 1 very large, 1 ½ medium, or 2 small cauliflower heads)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ⅛ tsp pepper
Cheese Sauce
- 60g / 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3½ tbsp plain/all-purpose flour
- 1 cup full-fat milk (for richness)
- 1 cup cream (or use more milk for a lighter version)
- ½ tsp kosher/cooking salt
- ¼ tsp nutmeg powder (freshly grated for best flavor)
- 1 cup grated Red Leicester cheese (cheddar works well too)
- ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese (or any good melting cheese)
Topping
- ½ cup grated Red Leicester cheese
- ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions
Step 1. Roast the Cauliflower
Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking tray and roast for 25–30 minutes until golden brown on the edges. This step is crucial—it brings out a nutty flavor that adds depth to the dish.
Step 2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly. Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens.
Add salt, nutmeg, and both cheeses to the sauce. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. (I always sneak a spoonful at this stage—it’s too tempting!)
Step 3. Assemble and Bake
Lower the oven temperature to 200°C (390°F). Place the roasted cauliflower in a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, ensuring it coats the florets evenly. Sprinkle the topping cheeses over the dish.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to settle.
2. Tips for Perfect Cauliflower Cheese
Roasting is key: Boiling cauliflower makes it watery. Roasting intensifies the flavor and keeps the texture pleasant.
Use flavorful cheeses: Red Leicester and Gruyère are a dream team. Cheddar, fontina, or even blue cheese can work too.
Don’t skip the nutmeg: It might seem minor, but it adds a lovely warmth to the sauce.
Go for full-fat dairy: It makes the sauce ultra-creamy and satisfying.
3. What to Eat With Cauliflower Cheese
This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side or a main—your choice.
As a main: Add crispy bacon bits or grilled mushrooms for protein. A simple green salad on the side balances the richness.
As a side dish: It pairs beautifully with roast chicken, lamb chops, or pan-fried fish. I particularly love it next to a roast beef dinner—pure comfort food heaven!
4. How to Store Leftover Cauliflower Cheese
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to revive the crisp topping. Microwaving works too, though the texture softens a bit.
Freezing is possible, but the sauce can separate slightly upon thawing. I prefer to enjoy it fresh or within a few days. Honestly, leftovers rarely make it that far in my house—it’s just too good.
This cauliflower cheese bake is a cozy classic that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s ideal for weeknights, special dinners, or just when you want something warm and cheesy on the table. Every time I make it, I wonder why I don’t do it more often. So grab a spoon, dig in, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your meal rotation.
