When you think of comfort food, cheesy casseroles often come to mind. But what if you could enjoy all that gooey, melty goodness while also sneaking in a hearty serving of vegetables? That’s exactly what you get with this Cheesy Cauliflower Bake. It’s creamy, flavorful, and indulgent—yet still packed with nutrients from fresh cauliflower.
Whether served as a side dish for a family dinner, a potluck contribution, or even a main course with a crisp salad, this bake is the kind of recipe that wins hearts at the table.
Why This Dish Works So Well
The star is cauliflower: Roasted until tender, cauliflower takes on a mild, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cheese.
Cheese pulls it all together: Sharp cheddar (or your favorite melty cheese) blankets the florets, adding richness and golden color.
Simple ingredients, big flavor: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create something that tastes indulgent but is easy to prepare.
Crowd pleaser: Even picky eaters who usually avoid vegetables will go back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk (whole milk works best)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional toppings: breadcrumbs, parmesan, fresh parsley