Cheesy Mustard Cauliflower
Creamy, cheesy cauliflower with a tangy mustard flavor, topped with melted Cheddar and paprika; perfect for a comforting side dish or vegetarian main.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim leaves from cauliflower, removing as much core as possible by cutting a cone-shaped piece from the bottom of the head.
- Combine water and salt in a 4-quart Dutch oven and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Add cauliflower stem side down and cook until water boils again, about 1 minute.
- Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 5 minutes.
- Cover and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
- Drain cauliflower in a colander.
- Return cauliflower to the Dutch oven.
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped onion, prepared mustard, and shredded Cheddar cheese; mix to blend.
- Spread the mayonnaise mixture over the cauliflower.
- Cook, covered, over low heat for 5 minutes or until the cheese melts.
- Transfer cauliflower to a serving platter using two pancake turners.
- Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce into the mayonnaise mixture. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this dish vegan-friendly. If you prefer a crunchier texture, roast the cauliflower instead of boiling it before adding the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian platter. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with crusty bread for a complete meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Christmas Rum Cake or other holiday favorites to round out a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cheesy Mustard Cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish and warm it gently, covered, to prevent drying out. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Mustard Cauliflower contains roughly 635 calories, with 14g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1408mg per serving (61% 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, frozen cauliflower can be used as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before following the recipe. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it to ensure it's tender but not mushy.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
You can replace Cheddar with any cheese that melts well, such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese if you're looking for a vegan option. Each type of cheese will impart its unique flavor, so choose one that complements your taste preferences.
How do I know when the cauliflower is done cooking?
The cauliflower is done when it's fork-tender but still holds its shape. You can test it by inserting a fork into the florets; it should go in easily without falling apart. Remember that it will continue to cook slightly after draining.
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).