Baked Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce

I like cauliflower, it's just not usually on my list of top vegetables to serve. It should be though. It's low in fat, high in fiber and loaded with vitamin C. It's also supposed to have excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits (see here for more nutritional info). And did you also know that cauliflower is part of the cabbage family? So many things to learn...

This recipe is sure to be a hit with your kids...or anyone who previously claimed not to like cauliflower. The cheese sauce is subtle, but enough to temper the strong cauliflower flavor. And it's a comforting, homey type of dish that belongs in the realm or mashed potatoes and gravy.

Baked Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce
Recipe by Kelly
Pictures by Kelly

1 large head cauliflower (about 1 pound), broken into large florets
2 tablespoons butter
1/8 cup flour
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 cup milk
1 cup cheddar cheese

1. Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Steam (or simmer, if you don't have a steamer rack) cauliflower about 7 minutes, or until cauliflower is tender, but not soft.
2. In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Reduce the heat to low and add flour and salt. Whisk until both are incorporated and the mixture turns golden brown, about 2 minutes. Raise the heat to moderate and add the milk, whisking constantly, until a smooth sauce forms (it should be thick and glossy, but still runny), about 5 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, gradually whisk in additional milk until you reach the desired consistency. Add pepper and 3/4 cup of cheese to the sauce and stir until melted. 
3. Place cauliflower in a small casserole dish (about 8 x 8 inches). Pour cheese sauce over the cauliflower. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake about 25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and slightly brown on top. Let cool about 5 minutes and serve.