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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent the cauliflower from sticking.
2. **Cut and Season the Cauliflower**: Remove the leaves from the cauliflower head and cut it into florets. Place the florets in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, and season with salt and pepper. Toss the cauliflower to coat evenly with the oil and seasoning.
3. **Roast the Cauliflower**: Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and starting to brown around the edges. You can also par-cook the cauliflower on the stovetop in boiling water for about 5-7 minutes before baking, if you prefer it softer.
#### Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
1. **Make a Roux**: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste. Be careful not to let it brown.
2. **Add the Milk**: Gradually whisk in the milk (or heavy cream), making sure to eliminate any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
3. **Add the Cheese**: Stir in the shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella are great choices) and continue stirring until melted and smooth. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and nutmeg (if using) for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
#### Step 3: Assemble the Dish
1. **Combine the Cauliflower and Cheese Sauce**: Once the cauliflower is roasted or par-cooked, transfer it to the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower, making sure to coat all the florets. Gently toss the cauliflower in the sauce so that each piece is well-covered.
2. **Top with Parmesan**: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the cauliflower for a crispy, golden crust once baked.
#### Step 4: Bake the Cauliflower with Cheese
1. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown. For an extra crispy top, you can place the dish under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes—just be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.
#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cauliflower is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Serve as a side dish with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal. The cheesy, creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with the roasted cauliflower, making it a comforting and flavorful addition to any meal.
### Tips for Perfect Cauliflower with Cheese:
– **Cheese Variety**: You can get creative with the cheese. While cheddar and mozzarella are classics, try using Gruyère, gouda, or even blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
– **Add-ins**: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like crispy bacon bits, sautéed onions, or fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) to give your dish even more flavor.
– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the cauliflower and cheese sauce in advance, store them separately in the fridge, and then assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
– **Vegan Option**: For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the cheese with vegan cheese and use almond milk or coconut milk in place of the dairy milk and cream.
### Conclusion:
Cauliflower with Cheese Baked in the Oven is a delightful and easy-to-make side dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. The tender cauliflower paired with a rich, creamy cheese sauce creates a satisfying dish that will please both kids and adults alike. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re serving it as a weeknight meal or bringing it to a potluck. Try this recipe, and you’ll have a new favorite way to enjoy cauliflower!
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