The Best Cauliflower & Broccoli Cheese
Cauliflower cheese has always been a big favourite in the Oliver household. It's such a staple I never thought I could do it better, but this version really has the edge.
Cauliflower cheese has always been a big favourite in the Oliver household. It's such a staple I never thought I could do it better, but this version really has the edge.
- Carbohydrate 10.3396875 g
- Cholesterol 23.28125 mg
- Fat 9.87828124994375 g
- Fiber 0.71875 g
- Protein 4.341875 g
- Saturated Fat 5.32869812499223 g
- Serving Size 1 1 as a side (285g)
- Sodium 59.1882031249989 mg
- Sugar 9.6209375 g
- Trans Fat 0.642545781248478 g
- Calories 146 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/gas 4.
- Peel and finely slice the garlic and put it into a medium pan on a medium heat with the butter.
- When the butter has melted, stir in the flour for a minute to make a paste, then gradually add the milk, whisking as you go, until lovely and smooth.
- Add the broccoli (cut up first, if using fresh) and simmer for around 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is cooked through and starts to break down, then mash or blitz with a stick blender (adding an extra splash of milk to loosen, if using fresh broccoli). Grate in half the Cheddar and season to perfection.
- Arrange the cauliflower in an appropriately sized baking dish (cut into florets first, if using fresh), pour over the broccoli white sauce and grate over the remaining Cheddar.
- Blitz the bread into breadcrumbs in a food processor, then pulse in the thyme leaves and almonds. Toss with a lug of oil and a pinch of salt and pepper, then scatter evenly over the cauliflower cheese.
- Bake for 1 hour, or until golden and cooked through, then enjoy!
The Best Cauliflower & Broccoli Cheese: A Simple Comfort Food Elevate
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy meal can feel like a constant uphill battle. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present laundry mountain. But even amidst the chaos, I crave comforting, home-cooked meals that nourish my family and bring us together. That's where this cauliflower and broccoli cheese comes in – a dish that's surprisingly easy to make, yet feels incredibly luxurious and satisfying. It's a far cry from the boxed mac and cheese of my childhood, offering a healthier twist without sacrificing any of the creamy, cheesy goodness. The secret? Simple, fresh ingredients and a little bit of love.
This recipe has become a regular on our dinner table. It's incredibly versatile – you can easily adjust the spices to match your preferences, add different vegetables, or even use different types of cheese. I've experimented with adding roasted red peppers for a touch of sweetness, or using a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere for a more complex flavor profile. It's a recipe that grows with you, adapting to your changing tastes and preferences. One of my favorite things about this dish is its ability to transform leftover vegetables into a delicious meal. If I have leftover roasted broccoli or cauliflower, they find their way into this creamy cheesy heaven! The combination of cauliflower and broccoli provides a wonderfully balanced texture and depth of flavor, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent.
Beyond the ease of preparation and the incredible taste, this dish offers a great opportunity for family involvement. My kids love to help with simple tasks like chopping vegetables (under careful supervision, of course!), and grating cheese. It's a fun way to spend time together, creating lasting memories while simultaneously preparing a wholesome family meal. The beautiful golden-brown crust on top adds a visual appeal that entices even the pickiest eaters. The creamy interior offers a comforting warmth, making it the perfect dish for a chilly evening. It's a testament to the fact that simple cooking doesn't have to be boring – sometimes, the most satisfying meals are the ones that are quick, easy, and filled with flavor.
This isn't just a meal; it's a moment of connection, a small act of self-care in the midst of a busy life. It's a reminder that even amidst the whirlwind of responsibilities, we can still take time to nourish ourselves and our loved ones with wholesome, delicious food. And that, my friends, is a recipe for happiness.
I often serve this dish alongside a simple side salad, or a crusty loaf of bread for dipping into the extra sauce. The leftovers are equally delicious, making this recipe perfect for meal prepping. So next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and undeniably delicious meal, give this cauliflower and broccoli cheese a try. It might just become your new family favorite.
