A few years ago, I stumbled upon Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese recipe while looking for a comforting side dish for a family dinner. It caught my eye because it was simple, yet promised a creamy, cheesy indulgence with a twist. I had always loved cauliflower cheese, but Jamie’s take on it felt like something special. The way he mixed flavors and textures made the dish feel modern and elevated, while still being cozy and familiar.
That night, I tried it for the first time, and it quickly became a regular on our dinner table. It’s one of those recipes you can make without much fuss, but it impresses everyone. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish has a magical way of bringing people together.
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe
Jamie’s recipe for Cauliflower Cheese is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. What I love most is how it takes just a few everyday ingredients and transforms them into something incredibly satisfying. He keeps the prep easy but adds just enough flair to make it feel like something special.
The key, as always with Jamie’s dishes, is balance. The rich cheese sauce, slightly nutty cauliflower, and the hint of mustard create an irresistible flavor combination. And the crispy topping? That’s just the icing on the cake. If you’ve never tried it before, this recipe is a must.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need. Most of these should already be in your pantry, and if they’re not, they’re easy to find.
- Cauliflower – The star of the dish. You’ll need a good, fresh cauliflower head, cut into florets.
- Butter – For that velvety cheese sauce base.
- Flour – To make a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Milk – Whole milk is preferred for its creaminess.
- Cheese – A mix of strong cheddar and a milder cheese (like Gruyère) works best. The cheddar gives it that sharp bite, while the Gruyère adds smoothness.
- Mustard – Dijon mustard gives the sauce a subtle tang.
- Nutmeg – A tiny bit goes a long way in enhancing the flavor of the cheese sauce.
- Breadcrumbs – For the crispy topping.
- Olive Oil – To help crisp up the breadcrumbs.
- Salt and Pepper – For seasoning.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese
This recipe comes together so easily. I remember the first time I made it, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Start by breaking the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Steam or boil them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender but still firm.
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Make The Cheese Sauce
- Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the flour and stir to create a smooth roux (paste). Cook it for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Let it simmer gently until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the cheese, mustard, and a pinch of nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Assemble The Dish
- Place the steamed cauliflower in a baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
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Top With Breadcrumbs
- Mix the breadcrumbs with a little olive oil and sprinkle them over the top of the cauliflower.
- Bake: Pop it in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key ingredients, and why they work so well together:
- Cauliflower: Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable, meaning it’s packed with vitamins (like C and K) and fiber. It’s naturally mild in flavor, which makes it perfect for absorbing the rich, cheesy sauce.
- Cheese: Cheese is the heart and soul of this dish. The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère gives you both bite and creaminess. The cheddar provides depth, while Gruyère brings a smooth, slightly nutty flavor. The fats in the cheese also help emulsify the sauce, giving it that luxurious texture.
- Mustard: A small spoonful of Dijon mustard brightens the whole sauce. Mustard helps cut through the richness of the cheese and adds a slight tang, which balances the creamy texture.
- Nutmeg: Nutmeg’s warm, sweet aroma subtly elevates the flavor of the sauce without overpowering it. It’s often paired with dairy because it enhances the richness.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Cauliflower: You want the cauliflower to retain its shape and texture, so be careful not to cook it for too long. Steam or blanch it until just tender to keep some bite.
- Grate the Cheese Yourself: Pre-grated cheese may have anti-caking agents, which can affect the smoothness of the sauce. Grating fresh cheese will give you a creamier, more luxurious result.
- Boost the Topping: To make the crispy breadcrumb topping even better, try adding some grated Parmesan or even a handful of toasted nuts. This adds more texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time. Simply assemble it and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to serve. You might need to add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Recipe Variations
Jamie’s Cauliflower Cheese is a great base to get creative. Here are a few variations I’ve tried that work really well:
- Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits for a savory, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese sauce.
- Spicy Twist: Stir in some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian: To make this dish vegetarian, swap the cheese for a plant-based variety and use dairy-free butter and milk. You’ll still get a creamy texture, but with a different flavor profile.
- Add Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives sprinkled on top can add a fragrant, herby freshness.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of comfort and flavor. The creamy, cheesy sauce and the tender cauliflower make it a dish everyone will fight over at the dinner table. It’s one of those recipes you can tweak and make your own, but even when made to the letter, it’s still perfect.
It’s also surprisingly versatile. You can serve it as a side with a roast, or as the main event for a light lunch. Either way, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Every time I make it, I think about how simple ingredients can come together in such a satisfying way.
FAQs
What’s Special About Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe?
Jamie Oliver’s recipe uses a creamy sauce made from cheese and mustard, giving it extra flavor and richness.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prep it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
What Kind Of Cheese Is Best For This Cauliflower Cheese Recipe?
A mix of strong cheddar and Parmesan works best for a rich, flavorful sauce.