Introduction
Cauliflower Cheese is a much-loved classic in British home cooking, known for its creamy cheese sauce and comforting simplicity. Often served as a side dish alongside roast dinners, it is equally popular as a vegetarian main, especially when baked until bubbling and golden. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, Cauliflower Cheese proves that simple food, cooked well, can be deeply satisfying.
The dish became firmly established in British cuisine during the 19th century, when cauliflower was a common vegetable and cheese sauces were widely used to add richness to meals. Early versions appeared in Victorian cookbooks, reflecting the growing popularity of baked vegetable dishes. Over time, Cauliflower Cheese earned its place as a staple of the Sunday roast, particularly as an accompaniment to beef or gammon.
At The Recipe Kitchen, this Cauliflower Cheese recipe stays true to the traditional UK method. It focuses on a smooth, well-seasoned cheese sauce, tender cauliflower, and a lightly golden finish, making it reliable, beginner-friendly, and perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower
- 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Cheese Sauce
- 50 g butter
- 50 g plain flour
- 600 ml milk
- 150 g mature cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Topping (Optional)
- 25 g grated cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the cauliflower
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5–6 minutes, until just tender but not soft. Drain well and set aside. - Make the roux
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a smooth paste. This removes the raw flour taste. - Add the milk
Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Continue whisking until all the milk is incorporated. - Thicken the sauce
Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This should take about 5–7 minutes. - Add the cheese
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar and Dijon mustard, if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth. - Assemble the dish
Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Place the cooked cauliflower into an ovenproof dish and pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top. - Add the topping
If using, sprinkle extra grated cheese and breadcrumbs over the surface for a golden, crisp finish. - Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbling and lightly golden on top. - Rest before serving
Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Do not overcook the cauliflower: Slightly firm florets hold their shape better during baking.
- Cheese choice: Mature cheddar provides the most traditional flavour, but a mix of cheddar and Red Leicester works well.
- Extra richness: Add a splash of double cream to the sauce for a more indulgent version.
- Herb addition: A pinch of nutmeg or thyme complements the cheese sauce nicely.
- Gluten-free option: Replace plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for sauces.
What to Serve With Cauliflower Cheese
- Roast beef, chicken, or gammon
- Sausages or grilled meats
- Baked potatoes
- Green vegetables such as peas or green beans
Cauliflower Cheese is traditionally served as a side, but with bread or potatoes it can easily become a satisfying vegetarian main.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Allow leftovers to cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C until hot throughout. Cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the cheese sauce can split and change texture when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my cheese sauce grainy?
This usually happens if the sauce is overheated after the cheese is added. Always remove the pan from the heat before stirring in the cheese.
Can I make Cauliflower Cheese in advance?
Yes. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Is Cauliflower Cheese always a side dish?
Traditionally it is served as a side, but many people enjoy it as a vegetarian main course.
Final Thoughts
Cauliflower Cheese is a timeless British classic that combines simplicity with comfort. With tender cauliflower and a smooth, flavourful cheese sauce, it remains a favourite on UK tables, particularly alongside roast dinners. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this traditional recipe delivers reliable results and proves why Cauliflower Cheese has remained a staple of British cooking for generations.
