Baked Cauliflower(This Is Also Good With Broccoli!)
A creamy baked cauliflower dish with green onions, pimento, cheese, and a crunchy bread crumb topping, perfect as a side or comfort food for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cauliflower in boiling salted water until done but not too soft.
- Drain and place in a baking dish.
- Melt butter; add flour and stir until blended.
- Add milk and continue stirring. Add salt, pepper, green onions, and pimento.
- Pour the sauce over the cauliflower.
- Top with bread crumbs and grated cheese.
- Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier and richer sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're out of pimento, roasted red peppers or even sun-dried tomatoes can provide a similar flavor. To ensure even cooking, make sure the cauliflower florets are roughly the same size. You can also add a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor enhancement.
Serving Suggestions
This baked cauliflower pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a heartier option, consider adding it to a buffet spread, similar to how you would present Buffet Potato Salad, making it a great addition to gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook, as it may become mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cauliflower(This Is Also Good With Broccoli!) contains roughly 443 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1503mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before baking to avoid excess moisture. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen florets can cook faster than fresh ones.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its sharp flavor, but you can use any cheese you prefer. Gruyère or mozzarella can provide a nice melt, while Parmesan can add a savory kick. Feel free to mix cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).