by Diana Rattray
Roasted cauliflower is a flavorful side dish that goes with just about any main dish. The process of roasting the cauliflower enhances its flavor. The caramelization adds a nutty and slightly sweet taste. While the browned edges are pleasantly crisp, the inside remains tender. It’s my favorite way to cook cauliflower.
With this recipe, the cauliflower is simply seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil. The rich and extra flavor comes from the easy cheddar cheese sauce drizzled over the roasted cauliflower.
PrintRoasted Cauliflower With Cheddar Cheese Sauce
An easy, silky smooth cheddar cheese sauce enhances this simple roasted cauliflower.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Vegetables, Cauliflower
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil
- kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
- 3/4 cup milk
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 3 ounces
Instructions
- Separate the cauliflower into florets; discard any leaves and tough stems.
- Heat the oven to 450 F.
- Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with the olive oil.
- Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
- Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, turning 2 to 3 times throughout the cooking.
- Meanwhile, make the sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and mustard powder and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk. Continue cooking and stirring until thickened. Add the cheese and continue cooking until the cheese has melted. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the roasted cauliflower to a serving platter and drizzle with some of the cheese sauce. Put the remaining sauce in a small dish and serve along with the cauliflower.
