Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese

This is a great vegetable-based side dish you can enjoy with any main course. This Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese is delicious with its crunchy baked cauliflower and creamy cheese topping.

I love to have many options for sides, Sometimes the perfect side dish can add a great combination to your main dish.

This recipe isn’t just simple; it’s versatile too. You can use any cheese you love, and for an extra crunch, you can even add some crispy bacon on top.

This Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese can be done in under 60 minutes, and if you love to enjoy it as a snack, add some Dave’s Hot Chicken Sauce on top or some Raspberry Chipotle Sauce for a sweet and tangy addition.

What is Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese?

Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese is a kind of side dish that mixes crunchy vegetables with creamy mayo and cheese, The cauliflower is first parboiled to achieve that soft perfectness, then coated with a mixture of creamy mayonnaise and shredded cheese. It’s a versatile recipe where you can use any cheese to tailor the flavors to your liking. Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese is perfect as a side dish to complement any meal.

Ingredients

To create this crunchy and creamy baked cauliflower, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 whole cauliflower
• 1 cup of mayonnaise
• 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both)
• Salt and pepper

Kitchen Equipment Required

• Large pot for boiling
• Baking sheet or oven-safe dish
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Silicone brush or spoon for spreading the mayo mixture
• Sharp knife for cutting and serving

How to Make Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese?

Step 1:

Turn on your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it can get hot. While the oven is warming up, take the cauliflower and remove the leaves and the core, but keep the head whole and intact.

Step 2:

Fill a big pot with water and heat it. place the whole cauliflower into the boiling water. Let it cook for about 10 minutes. This will help make the cauliflower soft, so it cooks nicely in the oven later.

Step 3:

In a mixing bowl, put in 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1 cup of shredded cheese, a little salt, and pepper. Stir everything until it’s well mixed.

Step 4:

Take the cauliflower out of the boiling water and let it drain. Place it on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish. Then spread the mayo and cheese mixture all over the cauliflower. Make sure it’s covered.

Step 5:

Cover the cauliflower lightly with aluminum foil and put it in the oven. Bake it for 30 minutes. Then, take off the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese on top turns golden brown.

Step 6:

Take the cauliflower out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut the cauliflower into wedges and Enjoy.

Some Tips!

• Try to get the cauliflower head that is firm, white, and without blemishes.
• Keep an eye on the cauliflower while it’s in the boiling water. Overcooking can make it too soft, So I think 10 minutes should be just right.
• When spreading the mayo and cheese mixture, make sure to coat the cauliflower evenly.
• To make sure your cauliflower is fully cooked, pierce it with a knife after baking.

How to Store Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, put them in a sealed container and keep them in the fridge for up to 48 hours. To warm them up, heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until they’re hot all the way through. You can also enjoy them cold in a salad if you prefer.

What to Eat with this Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese?

You can Pair your Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese with a lots of main courses, I will suggest dishes like beef tenderloin, or a Creamy Lasagna, For drinks consider a cup of Texas Peach Fuzz or a regular lemonade.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

It’s best to use fresh cauliflower for this recipe to ensure the best experience. Frozen cauliflower can become too watery during baking.

How do I know when the cauliflower is baking?

The cauliflower is done when it’s tender and easily pierced with a knife, and the cheese topping is golden brown.

Can I replace the mayonnaise with something else?

You can use sour cream as a substitute for mayonnaise.

What other cheeses can I use?

You can use any cheese you like such as Parmesan, Gouda, or Gruyere in addition to or instead of cheddar and mozzarella.

How can I make this dish spicy?

Add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the mayo and cheese mixture.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze-baked whole cauliflower with mayo and cheese.

What does Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese taste like?

The taste is so awesome is like eating a soft and crunchy vegetable with some juiciness of cheese and mayo in each bite.

What is Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese made of?

Baked Whole Cauliflower with Mayo and Cheese is made from a whole cauliflower that is first parboiled and coated with a mixture of mayonnaise, shredded cheese (typically cheddar or mozzarella), and seasoned with salt and pepper. This simple combination creates a creamy and cheesy delious crust that is so satisfying.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious baked whole cauliflower with mayo and cheese. It’s a super delicious side dish that can make your dinner more special. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to my blog for more creamy and tasty recipes.