Cheesy Cauliflower Bake with Tomato Sauce
This Cheesy Cauliflower Bake offers a delightful twist on traditional cauliflower dishes, transforming the humble vegetable into a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying side dish. With a luscious layer of seasoned tomato sauce, a sprinkle of parmesan, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this flavorful bake is sure to impress at any gathering. Inspired by a neighbor's barbecue, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts, making it a must-try for cauliflower lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cauliflower
1 head (broken into florets)
Butter
1 tablespoon (melted)
Flour
2 tablespoons (all-purpose)
Italian-style diced tomatoes
1 can (14 ounces) (drained)
Milk
1/4 cup (whole or 2%)
Dried oregano
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons (grated)
Seasoned bread crumbs
3 tablespoons (for topping)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Steam the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket for about 10 minutes, or until tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
3
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux.
4
Slowly add the drained diced tomatoes and milk, stirring well until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5
Add oregano, salt, and pepper to the sauce, adjusting seasonings to taste.
6
In a greased baking dish, combine the steamed cauliflower with the tomato sauce, ensuring the cauliflower is well-coated.
7
Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mixture.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
9
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Cauliflower Bake!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Cauliflower Bake with Tomato Sauce?
It is a creamy, cheesy side dish featuring steamed cauliflower, a seasoned tomato sauce, parmesan cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
How long do I need to steam the cauliflower?
Steam the cauliflower florets for about 10 minutes until they are tender but still firm.
How do I make the sauce base?
The sauce starts with a roux made by melting 1 tablespoon of butter and whisking in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for 1-2 minutes.
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
Use one 14-ounce can of Italian-style diced tomatoes, ensuring they are drained before adding to the sauce.
How long does the sauce take to thicken?
The sauce mixture should thicken in about 5 minutes after adding the tomatoes and milk.
What seasonings are included in the sauce?
The sauce is seasoned with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
How do I prepare the cauliflower for the bake?
The cauliflower should be broken into florets before steaming.
What is the topping for this dish?
The topping consists of 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese and 3 tablespoons of seasoned breadcrumbs.
How long does the dish bake in the oven?
Bake the dish for 15-20 minutes.
How do I know when the cauliflower bake is done?
It is done when the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly side dish.
Can I use different types of milk?
The recipe suggests 1/4 cup of whole or 2% milk.
Should the baking dish be greased?
Yes, use a greased baking dish to prevent sticking.
What inspired this recipe?
The recipe was inspired by a neighbor's barbecue.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
It is described as creamy and satisfying with a crunchy topping.
Is this dish suitable for holidays?
Yes, it is perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts.
How much butter is required?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of butter.
How much flour is needed?
You will need 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
Can I adjust the seasonings?
Yes, you can adjust the oregano, salt, and pepper to your personal taste.
How much parmesan cheese is used?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan.
What type of breadcrumbs should I use?
Use 3 tablespoons of seasoned breadcrumbs for the topping.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 ingredients in total.
Do I need to let the dish cool?
Yes, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include cauliflower, cheesy, baked, side dish, vegetarian, savory, and comfort food.
Is the cauliflower coated in sauce?
Yes, ensure the cauliflower is well-coated with the tomato sauce before adding the topping.
What size can of tomatoes is used?
The recipe specifies a 14-ounce can.
Can I use fresh oregano?
While the recipe calls for dried oregano, you can substitute fresh oregano to taste.
Is this a heavy or light side dish?
It is a comfort food dish that is cheesy and satisfying.