Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese is the perfect comforting dish that blends rich, creamy cheese sauce with the gentle sweetness of tender cauliflower, making it an easy yet indulgent side or main course. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, its flavor-packed goodness is sure to impress.
What Is Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese is a delicious British-inspired dish featuring cauliflower florets smothered in a velvety cheese sauce and often topped with a crispy, golden-brown layer of cheese after baking. The dish is a comforting classic, known for its creamy texture and savory flavor, offering a delightful balance between the mild taste of cauliflower and the richness of melted cheese. Oliver’s version often includes an extra twist of seasoning, such as mustard and nutmeg, which elevate the depth of flavor, making it a crowd-pleasing and satisfying side dish or main.
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Cauliflower – A medium-sized cauliflower head, cut into florets.
- Butter – Used to create the roux base for the cheese sauce.
- Flour – Essential for thickening the sauce (all-purpose flour works well).
- Milk – Whole milk is preferred for a rich, creamy sauce.
- Cheese – A mix of mature cheddar for sharpness and some Parmesan for depth and a bit of nuttiness.
- Mustard powder – A pinch to enhance the overall flavor of the cheese sauce.
- Nutmeg – A dash of freshly grated nutmeg gives the dish a warm, aromatic spice.
- Salt and pepper – For seasoning, to taste.
- Breadcrumbs (optional) – To add a crispy topping when baked, giving a nice texture contrast to the creamy cheese sauce.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need the following kitchen tools and equipment for this dish:
- Large saucepan – To make the cheese sauce.
- Baking dish – A medium-sized ovenproof dish to assemble the cauliflower and cheese sauce.
- Whisk – For ensuring the sauce is smooth and lump-free.
- Colander – To drain the cauliflower after steaming or boiling.
- Grater – For shredding the cheese and grating fresh nutmeg (if using).
- Oven – Preheated to bake the cauliflower in its cheese sauce and achieve that crispy golden top.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese?
Step 1: Prepare the cauliflower
Start by cutting the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Boil or steam the cauliflower in a pot of salted water until tender, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the cheese sauce
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour to make a roux.
Cook the roux for a minute or so to get rid of the raw flour taste. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps, and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add mustard powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Add the cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated cheddar and Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the dish
Transfer the cauliflower florets into your prepared baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over the top, ensuring all the florets are well-coated. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for extra texture and crunch.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and bake the cauliflower cheese for around 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is perfect as a side to a hearty main or as a vegetarian main course. Enjoy the creamy goodness!
Expert Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses – Combining sharp cheddar with a small amount of a more flavorful cheese like Gruyère or Parmesan will add layers of taste and depth to your sauce.
- Seasoning is key – Don’t skimp on salt, pepper, and mustard powder in your cheese sauce, as they balance the richness of the cheese and elevate the flavor.
- Blanch the cauliflower for a firmer texture – If you prefer the cauliflower to hold a bit more bite in the final dish, try blanching it (boiling briefly and then immediately shocking it in ice water) rather than cooking it all the way through before adding to the sauce.
- Breadcrumb topping – For extra crispness, toast the breadcrumbs in a pan with a bit of butter before sprinkling over the top of the dish. You can also add grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese is a timeless, comforting dish that can easily become the star of your dinner table. The creamy, cheesy sauce paired with tender cauliflower and crispy topping creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Simple to prepare but full of indulgent goodness, this dish is ideal for both casual family meals and special occasions. With expert tips for extra flavor and texture, you’ll be able to tailor this recipe to suit your preferences and elevate the humble cauliflower to new heights. Whether you’re serving it alongside roast meats or enjoying it as a stand-alone vegetarian treat, Jamie’s Cauliflower Cheese is bound to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.
Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese
Jamie Oliver’s classic cauliflower cheese is a beloved comfort food, but it’s always fun to experiment with variations to elevate the dish and keep things fresh. There are countless ways to tweak this traditional recipe, from adding different ingredients to changing the cooking technique. Here are some easy variations to consider:
1. Spicy Cauliflower Cheese
Add a kick to your cauliflower cheese by introducing some spice. A tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili flakes in the cheese sauce will give it a delightful heat. Alternatively, blend in some smoked paprika for a smoky depth, or try using a sharp, tangy cheese like Gruyère or aged cheddar to complement the spice.
2. Bacon And Leek Cauliflower Cheese
For an extra savory boost, sauté some bacon and leeks and stir them into the cheese sauce before mixing with the cauliflower. The salty, crispy bacon will add texture and flavor, while the leeks provide a subtle sweetness that complements the rich cheese sauce perfectly.
3. Vegan Cauliflower Cheese
To make a vegan version, swap out the regular cheese for a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Cashews can also be used to create a creamy, dairy-free sauce. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic addition to provide a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy.
4. Herbed Cauliflower Cheese
Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the cheese sauce to create a more aromatic dish. These herbs will infuse the sauce with a fresh, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the cauliflower’s natural sweetness.
5. Cauliflower Cheese With A Crunchy Topping
A crunchy topping can add a fun texture contrast to the creamy cauliflower cheese. Toasted breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, garlic, and chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) make an excellent crunchy topping. You can also experiment with nuts like almonds or pecans for an added twist.
6. Cauliflower Cheese With Spinach
To increase the dish’s nutritional value, stir some spinach into the sauce before mixing with the cauliflower. You can use fresh spinach or frozen spinach (just be sure to drain it thoroughly). The spinach adds color and nutrients, making the dish a little healthier without compromising on flavor.
Best Practices To Store Leftovers
Leftover cauliflower cheese can be just as delicious the next day if stored properly. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
1. Cool Before Storing
Let your cauliflower cheese cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the dish soggy.
2. Use An Airtight Container
Place the leftovers in an airtight container to maintain the creaminess and prevent the dish from drying out. If you plan to eat it within a few days, this method will help keep the flavors intact.
3. Refrigeration
Store your cauliflower cheese in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to consume it within this time frame for the best texture and flavor.
4. Freezing Leftovers
If you have more leftovers than you can eat within a few days, freezing is a great option. To freeze cauliflower cheese, let it cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container.
It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
5. Reheating Tips
To reheat, use a slow and gentle method to prevent the sauce from separating. If reheating in the oven, cover the dish with foil to prevent it from drying out and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes. For stovetop reheating, place the cauliflower cheese in a pan over low heat and stir occasionally, adding a little milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.
What Goes Well With Cauliflower Cheese?
Cauliflower cheese is a versatile side dish, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Whether you’re serving it as a vegetarian centerpiece or as a side to complement a rich meat dish, here are some ideas on what goes well with it:
1. Roast Meats
Classic roast meats like roast chicken, beef, or lamb work exceptionally well with cauliflower cheese. The richness of the cheese sauce complements the savory flavors of the roasted meat, creating a comforting and indulgent meal.
2. Grilled Fish
The creamy richness of cauliflower cheese pairs beautifully with the lightness of grilled fish, such as salmon or cod. The slightly smoky, charred flavors from the grill contrast nicely with the creamy cheese.
3. Vegetarian Options
Cauliflower cheese is a perfect companion to other vegetarian dishes. Consider pairing it with a fresh, vibrant salad, roasted vegetables, or a quinoa and lentil dish to balance the richness of the cheese. It also works well with veggie burgers or veggie sausages for a fully plant-based meal.
4. Steak Or Beef Wellington
For a more decadent meal, cauliflower cheese is a luxurious side dish to serve with a juicy steak or a rich Beef Wellington. The creaminess and mild flavor of the cauliflower cheese provide a perfect contrast to the bold, savory flavors of the beef.
5. Pasta
Cauliflower cheese can also be a fantastic addition to pasta dishes, either as a side or incorporated into the pasta itself. Try serving it alongside a simple pasta with tomato sauce or as part of a baked pasta dish for an extra layer of creaminess.
Conclusion
Cauliflower cheese is a comforting, versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re adding some spice, incorporating extra vegetables, or swapping in vegan ingredients, there are countless ways to personalize this classic recipe.
Storing leftovers is simple if you follow a few best practices, and the dish pairs wonderfully with everything from roast meats to grilled fish, pasta, and vegetarian options. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side or a main, cauliflower cheese is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!.
FAQs
What Is Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe?
Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese is a comforting and creamy dish made with tender cauliflower and a rich, cheesy sauce. The dish typically includes a combination of cheddar cheese, mustard, and a bechamel sauce made with butter, flour, and milk. The cauliflower is either boiled or steamed and then smothered with the sauce before being baked until golden and bubbling.
What Ingredients Are Required For Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese?
The key ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese include cauliflower, butter, flour, milk, cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, and nutmeg. You may also need a bit of olive oil, garlic, and seasoning like salt and pepper. Additional optional ingredients include grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
How Do You Make The Cheese Sauce For Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese?
To make the cheese sauce, you start by melting butter in a pan, then add flour to create a roux. Cook for a minute, then gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce thickens.
Once thickened, stir in grated cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of nutmeg. Continue stirring until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Cheese In Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of cheese in the recipe, though cheddar is the most traditional choice. You can try other hard cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or a mix of cheeses. Keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently, so you may need to adjust the texture of the sauce.
How Long Should I Cook Cauliflower For Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese?
You should cook the cauliflower until it’s tender but still holds its shape. This usually takes around 10 minutes when boiling or steaming. If the cauliflower is overcooked, it may turn mushy and affect the texture of your dish.
Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese In Advance?
Yes, you can prepare cauliflower cheese in advance. After assembling the dish with the cheese sauce, cover it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe Healthier?
To make the recipe healthier, you can use lower-fat cheese or substitute some of the cheese with a lower-fat yogurt or cottage cheese. You can also use a lighter version of the bechamel sauce by using less butter or replacing some of the butter with olive oil. Additionally, adding more vegetables such as broccoli or spinach can boost the nutritional content.
Is Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe Suitable For Vegetarians?
Yes, Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese is naturally vegetarian as it does not contain any meat. However, be sure to check that the cheese used is suitable for vegetarians, as some cheeses may contain animal rennet.
Can I Add Any Extras To Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely!
You can customize the dish by adding extras like crispy bacon bits, chopped herbs (such as parsley or thyme), or a crunchy topping made with breadcrumbs. Some people also add a splash of cream to the cheese sauce for extra richness.
What Should I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese?
Cauliflower cheese is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. It’s commonly served with roast meats like chicken or lamb, but it also works well with vegetarian meals such as a nut roast or a salad. For a more substantial meal, it can be served as a main course with some crusty bread or a fresh green salad.