Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamed Cauliflower Recipe

Creamed Cauliflower Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Homemade Creamed Cauliflower delivers comfort and elegance with its silky smooth texture and rich flavor profile. Elegant side dishes like this create memorable dining experiences that will make you crave more of this classic culinary delight.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets

Dairy and Flour:

  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) milk (whole or 2%)

Seasonings:

  • ¼ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pinch ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare a large saucepan with salted water, bringing it to a rolling boil. Position a steamer basket inside and carefully place the cauliflower, allowing it to steam until it reaches a tender yet slightly firm consistency, approximately 35-40 minutes.
  2. While the cauliflower steams, create a roux by melting butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Gradually sprinkle flour into the melted butter, whisking continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, golden base.
  3. Slowly incorporate milk into the roux, pouring in small increments and maintaining constant whisking to ensure a silky, lump-free sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, thickening gradually over 5-7 minutes.
  4. Enhance the sauce’s flavor profile by introducing a delicate balance of seasonings – sprinkle salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a whisper of nutmeg or cayenne for subtle warmth. Taste and adjust seasonings to personal preference.
  5. Once the cauliflower is perfectly steamed and drained, gently fold it into the creamy sauce, ensuring each floret is evenly and luxuriously coated.
  6. Transfer the creamed cauliflower to a serving dish, presenting it as a sumptuous side. Optional: Elevate the dish with a garnish of finely chopped fresh parsley or a light dusting of grated cheese for added complexity.

Notes

  • Steam cauliflower until just tender to preserve its delicate texture and prevent mushiness.
  • Use a steamer basket to maintain nutrients and avoid waterlogging the vegetable during cooking.
  • Whisk flour and butter slowly to create a smooth roux without lumps, which ensures a creamy sauce consistency.
  • Gradually add milk while stirring continuously to prevent sauce from burning or developing a grainy texture.
  • Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or fresh herbs to elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk or use cauliflower’s natural creaminess without additional sauce.
  • Make it vegan by replacing butter with olive oil and milk with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk.
  • Enhance protein content by sprinkling nutritional yeast or adding sautéed chopped almonds as a crunchy topping.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
  • Method: Steaming
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 170
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg