Name: Hairy Bikers Cauliflower Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: Cauliflower (1 medium, about 800g): Cut into bite-sized florets.; Cheddar Cheese (200g, grated): A strong, mature cheddar works best for a rich, tangy flavor.; Milk (500ml): For making the creamy cheese sauce.; Butter (50g): Adds richness to the sauce and helps create the roux.; Plain Flour (50g): Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.; Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick and depth to the sauce.; Parmesan Cheese (50g, grated): For a sharp, salty topping.; Breadcrumbs (a handful): Optional, for an extra crispy topping.; Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.; Optional: A pinch of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch.

Description

The Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese is a baked dish that combines lightly steamed cauliflower with a creamy, flavorful cheese sauce. It’s baked until golden and bubbly, making it a perfect accompaniment to roast dinners or a satisfying meal on its own.

Ingredients

Cauliflower (1 medium, about 800g): Cut into bite-sized florets.
Cheddar Cheese (200g, grated): A strong, mature cheddar works best for a rich, tangy flavor.
Milk (500ml): For making the creamy cheese sauce.
Butter (50g): Adds richness to the sauce and helps create the roux.
Plain Flour (50g): Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick and depth to the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese (50g, grated): For a sharp, salty topping.
Breadcrumbs (a handful): Optional, for an extra crispy topping.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Optional: A pinch of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the cauliflower florets and blanch them for 5-6 minutes until slightly tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring continuously to avoid burning.
Gradually add the milk while whisking, creating a smooth, thick sauce.
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the Dijon mustard and half of the grated cheddar cheese. Whisk until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.

Step 3: Assemble the Cauliflower Cheese

Arrange the blanched cauliflower florets in a medium-sized baking dish.
Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring all the florets are well-coated.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs (if using) over the top for a crispy finish.

Step 4: Bake the Cauliflower Cheese

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve the Cauliflower Cheese

Serve hot as a side dish to roast meats or as a comforting vegetarian main course. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.