I cook cauliflower like this! Cheesy Baked Cauliflower

1. Crispy & Cheesy : The roasted cauliflower gets tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, topped with a luscious cheese sauce.
2. Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all levels.
3. Customizable : Add spices, herbs, or extra toppings to suit your taste.
4. Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will devour this cheesy, flavorful dish.
5. Versatile : Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a vegetarian main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 4–6

For the Cauliflower:

• 1 large head of cauliflower , cut into florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1 tsp paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk (whole milk or 2% works best)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra gooeyness)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper , to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Crumbled bacon or breadcrumbs for crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Roast the Cauliflower

1. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
2. Spread the florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes , flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and slightly caramelized around the edges.