Caulicheese
Caulicheese is a comforting baked cauliflower dish topped with seasoned bread crumbs and melted cheese, featuring a creamy white sauce with a hint of mustard—perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Strain the cooked cauliflower and break into pieces.
- Make a white sauce by putting margarine and cornstarch in a pan; stir until melted.
- Gradually beat in milk, a bit at a time, until the mixture reaches a custardy consistency.
- Add salt, pepper, and hot English mustard to the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the cauliflower in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle seasoned bread crumbs and cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or shredded cheddar to the white sauce. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use vegan margarine. Experimenting with spices, like garlic powder or paprika, can enhance the flavor profile of this dish. For extra crunch, you can mix in some crushed nuts with the breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Caulicheese is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a fresh salad. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a quinoa salad or steamed vegetables. You can also complement it with a tangy sauce or chutney for added flavor. It makes a great centerpiece for gatherings, alongside dishes like Lemon And Lime Jello Salad.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the caulicheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring the topping stays crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caulicheese contains roughly 1430 calories, with 6g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 154g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish. Frozen cauliflower tends to release more water, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the dish doesn’t become too watery.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
A sharp cheddar cheese is commonly used for a robust flavor, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for a different taste. The key is to use a cheese that melts well, ensuring a creamy consistency over the cauliflower.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the caulicheese up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it heats through evenly.
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).