Whenever I think about a dish that’s both simple to prepare and a showstopper on the dinner table, my mind wanders to the baked whole cauliflower. This isn’t just any cauliflower dish; it’s a masterful blend of soft, creamy textures and rich flavors, thanks to the luscious mayonnaise and melty cheese. So, let’s dive right into how you can create this comforting culinary delight right in your own kitchen.
Baked Whole Cauliflower: Recipe Overview
Before we get our hands dirty, here’s a quick glance at what you can expect from preparing this delectable dish:
- Course: Main Dish
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
- Total Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Equipment Needed
You won’t need any fancy kitchen gadgets for this recipe. A few basics will do:
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Kitchen brush
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients for Baked Whole Cauliflower
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole cauliflower | 1 medium-sized |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) | A few sprigs |
Step by Step Instructions
Preparing the Cauliflower
- Remove the leaves and trim the stem of the cauliflower, making sure it sits flat in the baking dish.
- Wash it thoroughly under running water.
After cleaning, here’s a little tip: Cauliflower, while bland on its own, acts like a sponge and soaks up all the flavors you add to it, making it the perfect base for our cheesy, creamy topping.
Mixing the Topping
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, half of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix everything well until you have a smooth and creamy sauce.
Applying the Mixture
- Place the cauliflower in the baking dish.
- Using a kitchen brush, coat the cauliflower evenly with the mayonnaise and cheese mixture, ensuring it seeps into the nooks and crannies.
Did you know? Mayonnaise not only adds flavor but also helps create a stunningly crispy and golden crust when baked!
Baking
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the cauliflower.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the surface is golden and crispy.
Garnishing
- Chop some fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the baked cauliflower to add a pop of color and freshness.
Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Whole Cauliflower
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella for a stretchier texture or a smoked gouda for a deeper flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of curry powder to the mayonnaise mixture for an extra kick.
Best Served With
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp salad or steamed vegetables. Here are two great options:
- Quinoa salad
- Steamed green beans
Nutrition in Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayonnaise and Cheese
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
Please note: The above values are approximate.
What Makes Baked Whole Cauliflower Recipe Delicious
It’s all about the textures and the balance of flavors. The softness of the cauliflower contrasts beautifully with the creamy, tangy mayonnaise and the rich, gooey cheese.
FAQs about Baked Whole Cauliflower
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply use vegan mayonnaise and a plant-based cheese alternative.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Properly stored in the fridge, leftovers can be enjoyed for up to 3 days.
Can I add proteins to this dish?
Absolutely! Consider adding chopped cooked bacon or ham for a non-vegetarian version, or chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Make sure that all of your ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can pre-coat the cauliflower and keep it refrigerated overnight. Before serving, just bake it.
Conclusion
This baked whole cauliflower with Mayonnaise and Cheese is not just easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a beautiful side dish for your dinner party, it’s sure to impress.
Feel free to leave your comments, questions, or feedback on this recipe below. I love hearing how my dishes turn out in your kitchens!
Check out some more delicious main dish recipes:
- Leeann Chin Oyster Wings Recipe
- Chuck E Cheese Pizza Recipe
- Yard House Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti Recipe
- Dallas BBQ Sticky Wings Recipe
- Chicken Modiga Recipe
Baked Whole Cauliflower With Mayonnaise And Cheese
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Kitchen brush
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized Whole cauliflower
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
- To taste Salt
- To taste Black pepper
- A few sprigs Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparing the Cauliflower
- Remove the leaves and trim the stem of the cauliflower, making sure it sits flat in the baking dish.
- Wash it thoroughly under running water.
Mixing the Topping
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, half of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix everything well until you have a smooth and creamy sauce.
Applying the Mixture
- Place the cauliflower in the baking dish.
- Using a kitchen brush, coat the cauliflower evenly with the mayonnaise and cheese mixture, ensuring it seeps into the nooks and crannies.
Baking
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the cauliflower.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the surface is golden and crispy.
Garnishing
- Chop some fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the baked cauliflower to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella for a stretchier texture or a smoked gouda for a deeper flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of curry powder to the mayonnaise mixture for an extra kick.
