Wrapped Cauliflower
A savory baked cauliflower wrapped in flaky filo dough, filled with cheeses and bacon, offering rich, comforting flavors perfect for sharing at special dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core the cauliflower but do not break it apart.
- Parboil the whole head for 5 minutes.
- Remove the cauliflower from water and drain.
- Place the cauliflower in a round baking dish.
- Fill the inside with grated Fontinella cheese, grated Cheddar cheese, and cooked bacon slices.
- Pour heavy cream over the cauliflower.
- Melt butter and pour 1 tablespoon over the cauliflower.
- Arrange one sheet of filo dough over the cauliflower, tacking it around the head.
- Brush each sheet of filo with melted butter before layering additional sheets over the cauliflower, brushing each sheet with butter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispy and flaky texture, ensure each sheet of filo dough is brushed generously with melted butter. If Fontinella cheese isn't available, consider using Gruyère or mozzarella as a substitute. Cooked ham can be swapped for bacon if preferred. Keep an eye on the baking time as ovens can vary; you want a golden brown finish.
Serving Suggestions
This Wrapped Cauliflower makes a stunning centerpiece for a meal. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced dish. It pairs beautifully with Sunday Pork Roast or can be enjoyed as a hearty side to complement any meat dish. Consider adding a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an extra flavor dimension.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Wrapped Cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the filo dough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wrapped Cauliflower contains roughly 1068 calories, with 22g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 835mg per serving (36% 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 prepare Wrapped Cauliflower in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower up to the baking stage a day ahead. Simply assemble it and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy whipping cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut cream or a nut-based cream to maintain a creamy texture without the dairy.
How do I know when the cauliflower is done baking?
The Wrapped Cauliflower is done when the filo dough is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is bubbly. You can also check the tenderness of the cauliflower by inserting a knife; it should be tender but not mushy. A cooking time of 45 minutes at 350°F (175°C) typically achieves this.
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).