K'S Baked Cauliflower
Creamy baked cauliflower with sharp cheese, green peppers, and a crispy breadcrumb topping offers comforting flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Boil cauliflower until tender, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt margarine over medium heat.
- Gradually add flour and milk, stirring constantly to make a sauce.
- Add grated cheese, black pepper, salt, sour cream, green bell pepper, and cooked cauliflower to the sauce. Mix well and let cool.
- In a bowl, beat 2 eggs and fold into the cauliflower mixture.
- Grease a 9 x 11-inch baking dish.
- Pour the cauliflower mixture into the prepared dish.
- Sprinkle with Italian bread crumbs on top.
- Cover lightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda, alongside the sharp cheese. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half of the margarine with olive oil. To enhance the texture, add breadcrumbs flavored with herbs. Make sure to let the mixture cool before folding in the eggs to prevent scrambling.
Serving Suggestions
This baked cauliflower pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a delightful vegetarian main dish, perfect for entertaining or as part of a potluck spread. Explore more vegetarian recipes to complement your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat, as this may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of K'S Baked Cauliflower contains roughly 347 calories, with 12g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1247mg per serving (54% 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 fresh cauliflower instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute fresh cauliflower for frozen. Just ensure you boil it until tender before adding it to the mixture. Fresh cauliflower will give a slightly firmer texture, which can be a nice contrast in the dish.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you need a substitute for sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream. Both options will maintain a creamy texture and add a nice tang to the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish, assemble it in the baking dish, and then cover and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
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).