CHEESY CAULIFLOWER WITH CRUNCHY PANKO CRUMBS, MADE LITE RECIPE - (4.4/5)

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Cheesy Cauliflower with Crunchy Panko Crumbs, made Lite Recipe - (4.4/5) image

Provided by Foodiewife

Number Of Ingredients 16

For the sauce:
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons flour
1/2 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese* (highly recommended brand is Cabot Cheese, grated
3/4 cup 1% milk
3/4 low-sodium chicken stock
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon dried or fresh thyme (fresh is best)
1/8 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (or dry mustard powder)
Kosher salt & fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
For the topping:
3/4 cup Japanese Panko Crumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the cauliflower into even-sized florets, rinse and drain. Microwave in a bowl, with about 1" of water, covered in plastic for 3-5 minutes (depending on your microwave power). Remove the plastic wrap and set aside-- you want the cauliflowers to be slightly crunchy. For the sauce: Melt the butter and olive oil on medium heat. Whisk the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it becomes very thick. Add the milk and continue whisking-- the sauce should still be very thick. Add the minced garlic. Add the chicken stock, a little at a time, until the sauce is has thinned out enough to be "pourable". Reduce the heat to low and add the grated cheese, stirring until it is completely melted. Add the thyme, then season, carefully, with salt & pepper, mustard and cayenne pepper(if desired). Give the sauce one final taste, and adjust the final seasonings to your preference. For the topping: In a small bowl, drizzle enough olive oil to slightly moisten the panko crumbs (regular bread crumbs are okay, but panko crumbs are much crunchier, and combine with a fork. Set aside. You can also add some additional thyme to the topping if you love that herb! Assembly: Pour the cauliflower into a casserole dish (or individual ramekins). Carefully pour and distribute the cheese sauce, evenly. Sprinkle the panko crumbs on top. Bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden and bubbly. You can broil the topping for 1 minute (keep an eye on it) if desired. By using low-fat milk, healthier olive oil and less butter, and reduced-fat cheese, this otherwise very high caloric dish is equally flavorful and we loved this dish!

Bertha Monanyane
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This is the best cheesy cauliflower recipe I've ever tried. It's a must-try for any cauliflower lover.


Sohaib khan Sohaib khan
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I'm not a vegetarian, but I love this recipe as a meatless main course. It's so hearty and satisfying.


Shahzaib Bhatti
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This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cauliflower. I always have some leftover cauliflower from other recipes and this is a great way to use it up.


Arlene Michel
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I've made this recipe with different types of cheese and it always turns out great. I especially like it with sharp cheddar or Parmesan cheese.


Nirob Robi Nirob Robi
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I'm always looking for new and exciting ways to cook cauliflower, and this recipe definitely fits the bill. It's unique, delicious, and sure to impress your guests.


Thomas Ogato
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This recipe is a great way to get your kids to eat their vegetables. My kids loved the crispy panko crumbs and the cheesy cauliflower.


Nala Common
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I'm not a huge fan of cauliflower, but this recipe changed my mind. It's so cheesy and flavorful, I couldn't get enough of it.


Md.Maliek Hossain
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This is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights. It's quick, easy, and healthy.


Daniel Nadia Daniel
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I love the fact that this recipe is so easy to make. I can have it on the table in under 30 minutes.


Danjuma D Jauro
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This dish is so versatile. I've served it as a side dish, main course, and even an appetizer. It's always a crowd-pleaser.


Nigora Tripura
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I've made this recipe several times now and it's always a hit! My family loves the crispy panko crumbs and the cheesy cauliflower is so flavorful.


Tokyoo Tokyo
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This cheesy cauliflower recipe is a game-changer! It's so easy to make and tastes amazing. I love that it's a healthier alternative to traditional cauliflower dishes.