Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Recipe

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Cheesy Baked Cauliflower is a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional baked potatoes or other starchy side dishes. With a golden, crispy exterior and a tender, cheesy inside, this dish is perfect for a low-carb, gluten-free meal option. It’s an easy and delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying the rich flavors of cheese and baked goodness.

Whether you’re looking for a side dish to complement your main course or a vegetarian entrée, this cheesy cauliflower is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, finely chopped)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

  2. Prepare the Cauliflower:

    • Trim the leaves off the cauliflower and cut the cauliflower into florets or keep it whole for a “cauliflower bread loaf” effect.
    • If you’re keeping the cauliflower head whole, carefully remove the center core to create space for the cheese mixture.

  3. Season the Cauliflower:

    • Place the cauliflower florets or the whole head of cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Toss to coat evenly.
    • If you’ve chosen to leave the cauliflower whole, you can also drizzle a little extra olive oil on top and season it generously.

  4. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

    • In a medium bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and cream cheese (if using). Stir until the mixture forms a smooth paste. The cream cheese will add extra creaminess to the cheese sauce.

  5. Bake the Cauliflower:

    • Place the cauliflower in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and slightly golden. If you’ve chosen to bake it whole, the baking time will be a bit longer, approximately 40-45 minutes.

  6. Top with Cheese:

    • After the cauliflower has softened, remove it from the oven and top it with the cheese mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to spread the cheese over the cauliflower, covering it completely.

  7. Return to the Oven:

    • Place the cauliflower back into the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

  8. Garnish and Serve:

    • Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Conclusion: This Cheesy Baked Cauliflower recipe is not only an easy and healthy side dish but also a satisfying vegetarian option. With its tender texture, savory cheese coating, and aromatic herbs, it will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table. It’s perfect for those following low-carb, gluten-free, or keto diets, but delicious enough for anyone who loves cheesy, baked comfort food.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Baked Cauliflower:

  1. Use Fresh Cauliflower: For the best texture, use a fresh cauliflower head. Older cauliflower may be less tender when baked.

  2. Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, gouda, or feta to create your desired flavor profile.

  3. Add More Flavor: You can add extra spices such as smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes for a bit of heat.

  4. For Extra Crispiness: If you want an extra crispy top, place the cauliflower under the broiler for 1-2 minutes once the cheese has melted.

  5. Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish in advance. Simply bake the cauliflower until tender, then add the cheese mixture and finish baking when ready to serve.

More Info:

Cheesy Baked Cauliflower is not only a healthier option but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit many meal plans. Whether you’re making it as a side to roasted meats or as a standalone vegetarian dish, it’s a great way to enjoy the flavor and texture of cauliflower in a whole new light. This dish can also be served as a main course with a side salad for a light and satisfying meal.

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