Are you craving a comforting, cheesy delight but want to sneak in some extra veggies? Then look no further! This Cauliflower and Cheese recipe takes inspiration from the culinary genius of Jamie Oliver, offering a healthier, lighter take on a classic comfort food. It's a perfect example of delicious and healthy meals, easily adaptable to your taste and dietary needs. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Get ready to impress your family with this best recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 50g butter
- 50g plain flour
- 1 litre whole milk
- 1 tsp English mustard
- 1/2 tsp grated nutmeg
- 150g mature cheddar cheese, grated
- 50g Gruyère cheese, grated (optional, but adds a lovely sharpness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until tender-crisp. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the size of your florets. Don't overcook them; you want them to retain a slight bite. Drain well.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. This is the base of your creamy cheese sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for another 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Step 3: Add the Flavour
Stir in the English mustard and nutmeg. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese
Remove the sauce from the heat and gradually stir in the grated cheddar and Gruyère (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Add the cooked cauliflower florets to the cheese sauce and gently stir to coat them evenly. Pour the mixture into an ovenproof dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a golden, crispy crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F/Gas Mark 4) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding other roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or peas.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses! Try using Red Leicester, Gouda, or a blend of your favorites.
- Vegetarian/Vegan adaptation: Use a plant-based butter, milk alternative, and vegan cheese substitutes for a delicious vegetarian or vegan version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your cauliflower and the type of cheese used. However, a serving will generally provide a good source of protein and fiber, along with calcium and vitamins from the cheese and cauliflower. For precise nutritional data, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients.
This cauliflower and cheese recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that are both healthy and delicious. Enjoy this easy recipe and let us know how you like it! Remember to share your creations on social media using #CauliflowerCheeseJamieOliver. Happy cooking!