Cauliflower Puff
A cheesy, savory cauliflower casserole with scallions and a crispy cheese topping, perfect for a comforting side or light vegetarian main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cauliflower according to package directions until tender; drain.
- Blend until smooth the cauliflower, egg yolks, milk, salt and pepper.
- In a medium bowl, beat egg whites until stiff; fold in the cauliflower mixture, scallions and Cheddar cheese.
- Spread the mixture over the bottom of a buttered 9-inch pie plate.
- Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 375°F until golden brown and set, about 20 minutes.
- Cut into wedges and serve with a wide spatula.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure to beat the egg whites until very stiff before folding them into the cauliflower mixture. If you don't have Cheddar cheese, feel free to substitute with Gruyere or a dairy-free cheese for a vegetarian option. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile, making it more aromatic.
Serving Suggestions
This Cauliflower Puff pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a hearty option, serve it alongside Eddie'S Corn Bread. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For a crispy top, broil for the last couple of minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cauliflower Puff contains roughly 281 calories, with 4g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 990mg per serving (43% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just fold in the beaten egg whites right before baking to keep the puff light and airy.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! You can replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg), and use a plant-based milk along with a dairy-free cheese substitute.
What can I serve this dish with?
This dish works well as a side or main. Consider serving it with a simple green salad or alongside roasted chicken for a comforting meal. It also complements light American recipes like grilled fish.
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).