Cauliflower au gratin with cheese

Recipe steps

Prepare the cauliflower

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Break the cauliflower into florets and discard the stem. Cut florets into 2-3 cm pieces. Steam them for 10 minutes until tender but still firm. Spread on paper towels to dry.

Make the cheese sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add flour and whisk to combine well. Cook 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Add the spices

Stir in mustard powder, a pinch of cayenne, and black pepper. Mix well.

Build the sauce

Pour in milk in a steady stream while whisking constantly to keep the mixture creamy. Season with salt and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously.

Fold in the cheese

When the sauce thickens, add cheese by the handful. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Assemble and bake

Arrange cauliflower florets in a 2-liter baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons grated cheese. Bake 30 minutes until top is golden and bubbling.

Tips and variations

• For extra character, add a hint of freshly grated nutmeg to the sauce.
• You can replace parmesan with regular grated cheese for a milder flavor.
• A few fresh herbs (thyme, chives) as garnish add a lovely pop of color.