This Cheesy Baked Cauliflower with Buffalo Sauce is a delightful and flavorful dish that can be served as an appetizer or a side dish. The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and buffalo sauce gives it a deliciously spicy and savory taste. Perfect for any gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 1½ pounds), trimmed of leaves
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce or buffalo sauce
- Salt (for boiling water)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Turn the cauliflower upside down and gently cut out the bulk of the core, leaving a triangle-shaped indentation at the bottom of the cauliflower.
- Add an inch of salted water to a large pot and bring it to a boil.
- Place the cauliflower right side up in the pot, cover, and steam until tender but still firm (not mushy), about 7-10 minutes. Test with a slim sharp knife to check for doneness.
- Once done, remove the cauliflower from the pot and place it on paper towels to cool.
- Prepare the Cheesy Coating:
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and hot sauce until well combined.
- Coat the Cauliflower:
- Blot the cooled cauliflower with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Using your hands, coat the entire outside of the cauliflower with the cheesy mixture, ensuring it’s evenly covered.
- Bake the Cauliflower:
- Place the coated cauliflower on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cauliflower is golden brown, about 15 minutes.
- Serve:
- Let the baked cauliflower cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with forks or as finger food.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy baked cauliflower pairs well with a fresh green salad or can be served as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. It can also be enjoyed as a tasty appetizer at parties and gatherings.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure the cauliflower is not over-steamed to maintain its firm texture.
- You can adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your spice preference.
- For an extra crispy texture, broil the cauliflower for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
Nutritional Benefits
Cauliflower is a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. This dish is a healthier alternative to traditional cheesy snacks and is low in carbs, making it suitable for various diets.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free
Storage Tips
Store any leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Baked Cauliflower with Buffalo Sauce is easy to make, packed with flavor, and offers a unique twist on traditional cauliflower dishes. It’s a perfect blend of cheesy goodness and spicy kick, making it a crowd-pleaser at any event.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious Cheesy Baked Cauliflower with Buffalo Sauce. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!
