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### Ingredients:
* 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 cup whole milk
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare the Cauliflower**: Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
3. **Roast the Cauliflower**: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the florets are golden brown and tender, stirring halfway through.
4. **Make the Cheese Sauce**: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
5. **Assemble the Dish**: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, ensuring all florets are covered. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese sauce.
6. **Bake Again**: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. **Garnish and Serve**: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
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## 🌿 Variations and Tips
While the classic recipe is delightful on its own, here are some variations and tips to enhance your cheesy baked cauliflower:
### 1. **Add Bacon for Extra Flavor**
Incorporating crispy bacon bits into the dish can add a smoky, savory element that complements the creamy cheese sauce. Simply sprinkle the bacon bits over the top before baking.
### 2. **Use a Blend of Cheeses**
Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your preferred flavor profile. A mix of Gruyère and sharp cheddar can provide a rich, complex taste.
### 3. **Spice It Up**
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce can introduce a pleasant kick.
### 4. **Make It Gluten-Free**
To accommodate gluten sensitivities, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
### 5. **Prepare Ahead**
This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping or entertaining guests.
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## 🥗 Serving Suggestions
Cheesy baked cauliflower pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Consider serving it alongside:
* **Roast Chicken**: The richness of the chicken complements the creamy cauliflower.
* **Grilled Steak**: A hearty steak balances the lightness of the vegetable.
* **Vegetarian Lasagna**: For a meatless meal, pair with a slice of lasagna.
Additionally, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cauliflower dish.
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## 🧾 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | |
| ————- | ——– | ———————————————————————————————————- |
| Calories | 250 kcal | |
| Protein | 10 g | |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g | |
| Fat | 18 g | |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g | |
| Cholesterol | 35 mg | |
| Sodium | 400 mg | |
| Potassium | 400 mg | |
| Fiber | 3 g | |
| Sugars | 5 g | ([epicurious.com][1], [cookingwithbry.com][2], [averiecooks.com][3], [eatingwell.com][4], [reddit.com][5]) |
\*Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
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## 🏆 Final Thoughts
Cheesy baked cauliflower is a testament to the transformative power of cooking. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can elevate a humble vegetable into a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or enjoy a cozy meal at home, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Remember, the beauty of cooking lies in experimentation. Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. The possibilities are endless, and
[1]: https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/roasted-cauliflower-with-cheddar-cheese-sauce-363911?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Roasted Cauliflower with Cheddar Cheese …”
[2]: https://cookingwithbry.com/cauliflower-cheese-recipe/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Cauliflower Cheese Bake Recipe …”
[3]: https://www.averiecooks.com/cauliflower-gratin/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin Recipe – Averie Cooks”
[4]: https://www.eatingwell.com/gallery/7886620/cheesy-cauliflower-recipes/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “23 Cheesy Cauliflower Recipes That Are Healthy and Delicious”
[5]: https://www.reddit.com/r/ketorecipes/comments/firv71?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower…”
