Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Delight
Indulge in this decadent Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Delight, featuring tender cauliflower florets enveloped in a rich and creamy mustard sauce. Topped with a golden layer of Parmesan cheese and irresistibly crunchy buttered breadcrumbs, this casserole is the perfect comfort food for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Healthy, hearty, and utterly delicious!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cauliflower
1 (large, cut into florets)
Butter
6 (tablespoons, divided)
Flour
1/4 (cup)
Salt
1 (teaspoon)
Milk
2 (cups)
Prepared Mustard
2 (tablespoons)
Soft Breadcrumbs
1/2 (cup)
Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/4 (cup)
Instructions
1
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for approximately 6 minutes until they are crisp-tender. Drain well and arrange the florets in a generously buttered 1 1/2 quart baking dish.
2
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and salt, stirring continuously until the mixture is bubbly and pale, about 1-2 minutes.
3
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
4
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the prepared mustard until fully combined. Pour the creamy mustard sauce evenly over the cauliflower in the baking dish.
5
In a separate small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add the soft breadcrumbs, stirring well to ensure they are evenly coated in butter.
6
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the cauliflower casserole. Then, evenly distribute the buttered breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
7
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Delight?
It is a decadent casserole featuring tender cauliflower florets in a creamy mustard sauce, topped with Parmesan and buttery breadcrumbs.
How long should I boil the cauliflower?
You should boil the cauliflower florets for approximately 6 minutes until they are crisp-tender.
What is the oven temperature for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
How much butter is needed for this recipe?
A total of 6 tablespoons of butter is needed, divided into two 3-tablespoon portions.
What size baking dish is required?
A 1.5 quart baking dish is recommended for this casserole.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.
What type of mustard should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of prepared mustard.
How long does the casserole bake in the oven?
Bake the casserole for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
What kind of cheese is used in this dish?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
How do I make the creamy sauce?
Melt butter, whisk in flour and salt until bubbly, then gradually whisk in milk until the sauce thickens.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
While fresh is preferred, you can use frozen cauliflower as long as it is cooked and drained well to prevent sogginess.
What type of breadcrumbs are best?
The recipe suggests using soft breadcrumbs coated in melted butter for the best crunch.
How much milk is needed for the sauce?
You will need 2 cups of milk to create the creamy mustard sauce.
How do I prepare the cauliflower before boiling?
You should cut one large cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The casserole features tender cauliflower in a smooth sauce with a crunchy, golden topping.
How much flour is used for the roux?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of flour to thicken the sauce.
Can I add other seasonings to the sauce?
Yes, while the recipe uses salt and mustard, you can add pepper or garlic powder for extra flavor.
How do I prevent lumps in the sauce?
To prevent lumps, pour the milk in gradually while whisking constantly.
Should I grease the baking dish?
Yes, the recipe specifies using a generously buttered baking dish.
When should I add the Parmesan cheese?
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower after the mustard sauce has been poured over it.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients: cauliflower, butter, flour, salt, milk, mustard, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan.
What is the purpose of the mustard?
The prepared mustard adds a tangy depth of flavor to the creamy white sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving.
Is this a healthy side dish?
Yes, cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable, making this a wholesome choice for a side dish.
Can I use a different cheese?
While Parmesan is recommended, you could substitute it with sharp cheddar or Gruyere for a different flavor.
How do I prepare the breadcrumb topping?
Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a skillet and stir in the breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
Should the sauce be cooked over high heat?
No, the sauce should be cooked over medium heat to prevent burning the butter or flour.
Is it okay to use low-fat milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk, though the sauce may be slightly less rich than with whole milk.
How should I serve this casserole?
Allow it to cool slightly after baking and serve it warm as a side dish.
What makes the top crunchy?
The combination of buttered breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese baked at high heat creates the crunchy topping.