The first time I tried cauliflower cheese, I was a teenager. It wasn’t the kind you get from a can, but a homemade, cheesy, comforting version that felt like a hug in a bowl. My friend’s mom made it, and I remember thinking, “Why have I never had this before”? Ever since then, cauliflower cheese has become one of my favorite dishes-simple, rich, and perfect for any occasion. And if you’re a fan of food that’s creamy, indulgent, and a little bit nostalgic, you’ll love Jamie Oliver’s take on it.
Jamie’s recipe elevates the traditional with a few simple tricks, making the dish flavorful without being over-the-top. It’s creamy without being too heavy, and the combination of cauliflower and cheese somehow feels both indulgent and comforting.
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s version of cauliflower cheese is one of those recipes you can’t help but turn to over and over again. The recipe brings together the sweetness of roasted cauliflower and the smooth, cheesy sauce with the perfect balance of flavors. It’s an elegant side dish but also filling enough to stand on its own.
- Roasted cauliflower is used instead of just boiled, which adds extra depth and texture.
- The cheese sauce is made from scratch, ensuring a rich and velvety finish.
I love how Jamie keeps the recipe simple yet flavorful-no unnecessary ingredients, just good-quality cheese and a bit of seasoning to tie everything together.
Ingredients Needed
When I first looked at the ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese, I was surprised at how basic they were. There’s no need for anything fancy-just the essentials, but everything works together in the perfect harmony of flavors. Here’s what you need:
- 1 large cauliflower (cut into florets)
- Butter (unsalted, for richness)
- Flour (plain, to thicken the sauce)
- Milk (whole milk gives the creamiest result)
- Cheese (cheddar is the go-to, but I like mixing in some Gruyère for extra flavor)
- Mustard (a teaspoon of Dijon adds a nice tang)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Nutmeg (a pinch brings warmth and depth)
- Breadcrumbs (optional, but they add a nice crunch on top)
These ingredients are things you probably already have in your kitchen, making this dish both accessible and easy to pull off when you’re craving something comforting.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese
Making cauliflower cheese from scratch is surprisingly simple, especially when you follow Jamie’s instructions. The key is to take your time with the cheese sauce-don’t rush it, and make sure it’s nice and thick. Here’s how to make it:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Prepare the cauliflower: Break it into florets and place them on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for 25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
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Make The Cheese Sauce
- In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in the cheese, Dijon mustard, a pinch of nutmeg, and black pepper.
- Combine: When the cauliflower is tender and golden, transfer it to a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower and mix gently.
- Top with breadcrumbs (if using) and more cheese, then bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbling.
The texture of the cauliflower, roasted to perfection, pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. The breadcrumbs on top create a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the softness of the cauliflower. It’s comfort food at its finest.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
I’ve always been curious about what makes certain ingredients so essential in dishes like cauliflower cheese. So here’s a quick breakdown of the science behind some of the key ingredients in Jamie Oliver’s recipe:
- Cauliflower: This vegetable is a perfect base for cheese sauce because it absorbs the rich flavors without becoming mushy. Roasting cauliflower before baking intensifies its flavor through caramelization, making it a savory, golden delight.
- Cheese (Cheddar): The proteins in cheddar melt perfectly, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. The salt and fat in cheese enhance the overall flavor, while the sharpness of cheddar balances the richness of the butter and cream.
- Butter and Flour: These two form the base of the roux that thickens the sauce. Butter provides richness, while the flour helps to stabilize the sauce and keep it from separating.
- Mustard and Nutmeg: These might seem like small additions, but they bring a lot to the table. Mustard adds sharpness, while nutmeg gives the sauce warmth and depth. They create a more complex flavor profile that elevates the dish beyond basic cheese sauce.
Expert Tips
After making cauliflower cheese multiple times, I’ve learned a few things that help take the recipe to the next level:
- Use room temperature milk: If you add cold milk directly to the roux, it can cause the sauce to become lumpy. Room temperature milk helps the sauce stay smooth and velvety.
- Season the cauliflower before roasting: A little salt, pepper, and oil can make a huge difference in the cauliflower’s flavor. Roasting it caramelizes the edges, which brings out the sweetness.
- Don’t skip the mustard: Even though it’s a small amount, it cuts through the richness of the cheese and gives the dish a sharper, more balanced taste.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the cauliflower and cheese sauce in advance and assemble the dish when you’re ready. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bake as directed.
- Extra cheese: If you’re feeling indulgent, add some extra cheese on top before baking for a golden, cheesy crust that will melt in your mouth.
Recipe Variations
One of the great things about cauliflower cheese is how adaptable it is. You can easily modify the recipe to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Vegan version: Swap the butter for olive oil, use plant-based milk (like oat or almond milk), and choose a vegan cheese. Nutritional yeast can also help bring that cheesy flavor.
- Add-ins: Want to make it heartier? Stir in some crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or even cooked chicken for a full meal.
- Spicy kick: Add some chili flakes to the cheese sauce for a bit of heat. This is a great way to make the dish feel a little more exciting.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary mixed into the sauce adds another layer of flavor, and it pairs beautifully with the roasted cauliflower.
Final Words
Cauliflower cheese is one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and nourishing, which is why it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Jamie Oliver’s recipe is especially great because it strikes that balance between simplicity and depth of flavor. It’s something you can whip up on a Sunday for family dinner or make as a side to impress guests at a special occasion.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe Different?
Jamie adds a twist with creamy cheese sauce and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
What Cheese Is Best For Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese?
A mix of mature cheddar and Parmesan gives it a rich, flavorful taste.