Baked Cheddar Cauliflower – Crispy, Cheesy & Totally Irresistible!
This Baked Cheddar Cauliflower is a cozy, crowd-pleasing side dish that turns simple veggies into something spectacular. Roasted until golden and topped with sharp cheddar and Parmesan, each bite is rich, savory, and perfectly crisp. Whether you're serving it for a holiday dinner, weeknight meal, or veggie-forward feast, this easy recipe is gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with flavor. Save it now for your next cheesy craving!
Equipment
- Baking dish (9x13 or similar)
- Large mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
- Knife and cutting board
- Saucepan (if making cheese sauce)
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower (cut into florets)
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
- ½ cup milk or cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour (or almond flour for keto)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs, parmesan, smoked paprika, fresh herbs, bacon bits
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare cauliflower: Wash, dry, and cut into bite-sized florets.
- Roast (optional): Toss florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes until lightly browned.
- Make cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour, then whisk in milk. Cook until thickened. Add cheddar, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Combine: Mix roasted cauliflower with cheese sauce. Transfer to baking dish.
- Top and bake: Sprinkle with extra cheese or breadcrumbs. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish: Add fresh herbs, lemon zest, or crispy onions before serving.
Notes
- For extra crisp, preheat your baking sheet before roasting.
- Use fresh cauliflower for best texture, but frozen works if dried thoroughly.
- Grate your own cheese for smoother melting and richer flavor.
- Bake in ramekins for easy portioning and elegant presentation.
- Make it vegan with dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze without sauce for 2 months.
- Reheat uncovered in oven or air fryer to preserve crispness.