Cheesy Cauliflower with Spicy Basil Breadcrumbs
Cheesy Cauliflower with Spicy Basil Breadcrumbs. Think Mac n’ Cheese but in my opinion…better. Because I am obsessed with all things cauliflower and it’s monday so make it a liiiittle healthier. But let’s be honest…it’s not too much healthier because it’s extra cheesy with the cheddar and Gouda, it’s got a little bit of chipotle chili powder to spice it up, and it’s topped with spicy crunchy basil breadcrumbs. If you’re looking for a way to love cauliflower, this cheesy and fun and delicious dish is your way to do it !! Trust me guys…just try it !!
Monday’s are rough, but cheesy cauliflower…well that makes them a little bit better. But today was an even rougher Monday because yesterday was literally SO much fun. It was the first eagles home game, and if you’re from the Philly area, you absolutely know what that means. Tailgating and xFinity live. Unfortunately, we missed an entire year of eagles xFinity Sunday’s, but we are back !! No Sunday scaries yesterday…that is for sure.
Anyway, today it’s back to work and reality. But Monday’s don’t have to be terrible. Make the perfect dinner and suddenly Monday gets a little better. Maybe have a glass or two of wine…yup Monday’s can get better.
So tonight, we wanted to do something fun but not over the top decadent or anything. So cauliflower it is. But make it really, super cheesy and delicious like this. Because if you like cauliflower, you will love this. And if you don’t like cauliflower, well I think we have found the recipe that is going to change your mind.
There’s lots of gouda and cheddar, a little chipotle chili powder and smoked paprika, and topped with all those spicy, herby breadcrumbs. And the bonus?! It is super easy to make which just makes Monday that much less stressful.
Happy Monday guys !! Hope you all had a great weekend because I know I sure did !!
ingredients
1 large head cauliflower; cut into florets
4 tablespoons olive oil; divided
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
salt and pepper
3 pieces thick cut bread; cubed
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded gouda cheese
fresh basil for serving
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. On a baking sheet lined with parchment, arrange the cauliflower. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bake for about 25 - 30 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
On another baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the bread cubes. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt. Bake for 10 - 12 minutes or until bread is toasted. Transfer to the bowl of a food processor and pulse until crumbled. Toss with red pepper flakes and basil.
Meanwhile make the cheese sauce. In a large skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour, chipotle chili powder, and onion powder. Cook for about 1 minute. Slowly add the milk, continuing to whisk. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a low boil. Add the cheeses and stir to combine. Add the cauliflower and toss to coat. Cook for another 3 - 5 minutes.
Serve cauliflower topped with breadcrumbs and additional basil leaves.
