Recipes
Uk

Cauliflower Cheese

A creamy, cheesy British classic perfect as a side or main dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
  • Salt for boiling
  • 40g butter
  • 40g flour
  • 500ml milk
  • 150g mature cheddar, grated
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Pinch nutmeg
  • Salt & pepper

Method

  1. 1

    Steam or boil florets for 5 minutes until just tender

  2. 2

    Melt butter, add flour, and whisk 1 minute

  3. 3

    Add milk gradually, stirring until smooth. Simmer 3-5 minutes to thicken

  4. 4

    Stir in mustard, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and most of the cheese

  5. 5

    Place cauliflower in baking dish. Pour sauce over top

  6. 6

    Sprinkle remaining cheese. Bake at 200°C for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden

Swaps & variations

  • Add cooked broccoli or leeks
  • Add breadcrumbs mixed with herbs
  • Add smoked paprika
  • Add a splash of white wine

Storing & freezing

Keeps 3-4 days in the fridge. Freezes well but sauce may thicken—reheat gently with extra milk.

Grow it yourself

  • Cauliflower: Sow seeds in spring; transplant when 10cm tall. Requires firm soil and steady watering. Shade curds with outer leaves to prevent yellowing
  • Cabbage white butterflies: netting essential
  • Slugs: wood ash around base
  • Aphids: wash off with water spray or garlic tea
  • Cauliflower: Harvest when heads are compact, firm, and white. Cut with 1-2 leaves attached for protection

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