Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese is a quick and delicious twist on the classic comfort dish. This recipe combines tender cauliflower florets with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection in the air fryer. It’s perfect as a side dish for family dinners or a standalone vegetarian meal.

What Is Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese?

Cauliflower cheese is a traditional British dish featuring steamed cauliflower topped with a creamy cheese sauce, then baked until golden and bubbling. The air fryer version cuts down cooking time and creates a crispy, cheesy topping with minimal effort. It’s faster, energy-efficient, and just as satisfying as the oven-baked version.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The air fryer cooks cauliflower cheese in half the time of a traditional oven.
• Perfectly Crispy Topping: The air fryer ensures a golden, cheesy crust.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition.
• Versatile: Works as a side dish or main course.
• Minimal Cleanup: Fewer dishes for an easy dinner.

Ingredients Needed to Make Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese

• 1 medium cauliflower (cut into florets) – The star of the dish.
• 2 tbsp butter – Adds richness to the cheese sauce.
• 2 tbsp plain flour – Thick the sauce.
• 300ml milk – Creates the creamy base.
• 100g grated cheese (Cheddar or Gruyère) – For the sauce and topping.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard – Adds depth and flavor.
• Salt and pepper – For seasoning.
• Optional: 1-2 tbsp breadcrumbs – For a crunchy topping.

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer with a baking pan accessory – For cooking the dish.
• Saucepan – To prepare the cheese sauce.
• Mixing spoon or whisk – For stirring the sauce.

Instructions to Make Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for 3-5 minutes.

Step 2: Steam or Boil the Cauliflower

Steam or boil the cauliflower florets for 5-7 minutes until tender but still firm. Drain well and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the plain flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 75g of grated cheese and the Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Cauliflower Cheese

Place the steamed cauliflower florets in the air fryer’s baking pan or a heatproof dish that fits your air fryer. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top, and add breadcrumbs if desired.

Step 5: Air Fry the Dish

Place the dish in the air fryer and cook at 190°C (375°F) for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the dish from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Serve warm as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course.

What Goes Well with Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese

• Roast Chicken or Beef: Complements hearty, meaty dishes.
• Green Salad: Balances the richness with a fresh, crisp side.
• Steamed Vegetables: A light pairing with broccoli or carrots.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce.
• Grilled Fish: Adds a lighter protein option to the meal.

Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese

• Drain the Cauliflower Well: Excess moisture can make the dish watery.
• Use High-Melting Cheese: Cheddar or Gruyère works best for a rich, smooth sauce.
• Add Breadcrumbs for Crunch: A breadcrumb topping adds a deliciously crispy texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Cauliflower: Keep it slightly firm so it doesn’t become mushy.
• Adjust the Cooking Time: Air fryer models vary, so check frequently to prevent overbrowning.

Easy Variations of Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese

• Add Bacon: Sprinkle cooked bacon bits over the top for extra flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for a kick.
• Broccoli and Cauliflower: Combine the two for a colorful, nutrient-packed dish.
• Garlic Cheese Sauce: Stir minced garlic into the roux for added depth.
• Herbed Topping: Mix fresh parsley or thyme with the breadcrumbs for an aromatic touch.

Best Practices to Store Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
• Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How Can I Make Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese Healthier?

• Use Low-Fat Milk and Cheese: Opt for reduced-fat options to cut calories.
• Skip the Breadcrumbs: Eliminate the topping for fewer carbs.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Mix in broccoli, spinach, or kale for added nutrients.
• Reduce Butter: Use a smaller amount of butter in the sauce.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Steam or boil it first until tender, then drain thoroughly to remove excess water before assembling the dish. This helps prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

How Do I Keep the Cheese Sauce from Splitting in Cauliflower Cheese?

To prevent the cheese sauce from splitting, use a lower heat when adding the cheese to the sauce and stir it in gradually. Avoid boiling the sauce once the cheese is added, as high heat can cause it to separate.

Can I Make Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of air frying. Store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then cook in the air fryer when ready to serve.

What Is the Best Cheese to Use for Cauliflower Cheese?

Cheddar is the most popular choice for its sharp flavor and smooth melting properties. Gruyère or a mix of Parmesan and Cheddar also works well for added depth and richness.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 3g

Final Words

Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese is a modern take on a classic dish, delivering all the creamy, cheesy goodness with the added convenience of quick cooking. Perfectly crisp on top and tender inside, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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