Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayonnaise and Cheese

This Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayonnaise and Cheese recipe is perfect for cauliflower lovers like me. I had many options on how to prepare it. At first, I thought about frying it since I’ve had success frying other vegetables like carrots. But at the last minute, I decided to bake it with mayonnaise and cheese. It turned out to be the best decision, It was juicy, crispy, and incredibly delicious.

I was pleasantly surprised when both of my kids loved this Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayonnaise and Cheese. Usually, they prefer fried dishes, so it’s rare for them to enjoy something baked, especially if it’s based on vegetables. They’re big fans of cheese, too! I was also happy to see that my husband and sister enjoyed it during our last weekend get-together. This dish is so light and almost resembles mashed potatoes, but baked in the oven. It’s crispy, creamy, juicy, and undoubtedly tasty.

Ingredients

• 1 whole cauliflower
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar works well)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Oven

How to Make Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayonnaise and Cheese?

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, take the cauliflower and remove the outer leaves. Then, trim the stem so it can sit flat in a baking dish.

Step 2:

Now, it’s time to mix up some ingredients, Grab a small bowl and mix together mayonnaise, cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix it all up until it’s creamy.

Step 3:

Place the cauliflower in the baking dish and spread the creamy mixture all over it. Make sure to cover the cauliflower really well so it’s all coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 4:

Now, it’s time to bake, Cover the baking dish with foil and put it in the oven. Let it bake for about 30 minutes. After that, take off the foil and let it bake for another 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cauliflower is soft and the cheese is all golden and bubbly.

Step 5:

Once it’s done, you can add some fresh herbs on top if you like. Then, serve it up nice and hot. It’s time to enjoy your delicious creation!

Tips

• The first thing is to Look for a cauliflower with tight, compact florets and fresh green leaves.
• Feel free to add your favorite spices to the mayonnaise and cheese mixture, sometimes I use milk with it, and other times I use fresh base sauce with it, be creative, in this recipe I used a lot of Mayo to make it extra juicy.
• Keep an eye on the cauliflower while it’s baking to prevent it from becoming too soft.
• If you have any leftovers, don’t let them go to waste! Chop up the remaining cauliflower and mix it into pasta dishes, or even salads.

What to Pair with this Cauliflower Dish?

This Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayonnaise and Cheese pairs wonderfully with some Chicken Breast pieces like Mar Far Chicken, The chicken is what missing in this dish, so you can have it to make it perfect, Also a creamy Garlic Butter Pasta, can be a choice to consider. As for drinks, consider enjoying it with a crisp glass of Chardonnay, a refreshing Sparkling Water with Lemon, or a classic Iced Tea.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before coating it with the mayonnaise and cheese mixture.

Can I use low-fat mayonnaise or cheese for a lighter version?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat mayonnaise or cheese if you prefer a lighter option. However, keep in mind that it may affect the overall flavor of the dish.

How do I know when the cauliflower is baking?

The cauliflower should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheese should be golden brown. You can also test the doneness by inserting a knife into the thickest part of the cauliflower; it should go in easily.

Can I add other toppings or ingredients to the mayonnaise and cheese mixture?

Yes, you can add ingredients like minced garlic or even crumbled bacon.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1 day. To reheat, simply place the cauliflower in a baking dish and warm it in the oven until heated through.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it doesn’t contain any meat or animal products (unless you choose to use vegan mayonnaise and cheese substitutes). It’s a tasty option for vegetarians looking for a satisfying meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayonnaise and Cheese is a must-try dish for anyone looking to taste the great taste of baked vegetables with cheese. With its simplicity, and taste of course this recipe needs a try, So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy making your own version. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to my blog for more juicy and creamy recipes.