Cheesy Creamy Tangy Microwave Cauliflower Recipe

Picture this: you’ve got this golden, creamy cauliflower creation fresh out of the microwave, with gooey cheddar goodness and a subtle kick of Dijon mustard, making your kitchen smell like a five-star, cheese-lovers’ paradise. Are you ready to dive into this luscious explosion of flavor with me?

My Cheesy Creamy Tangy Microwave Cauliflower is a dish that I love to make anytime I need a quick, satisfying side. It’s a nutritional powerhouse, with more vitamin C than an orange, more fiber than a bowl of oatmeal, and more protein than a cup of beans.

To top it off, there are only 4 net carbs. Using the microwave means it takes just 10 minutes to prep and cook.

While it’s mostly savory, with a good amount of cheddar, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard in the sauce, I also think of it as a dish that toes the line between savory and sweet.

Ingredients

• Cauliflower: Low in calories, high in fiber, supports digestive health.
• Cheddar Cheese: Rich in protein and calcium, adds creamy texture.
• Cream Cheese: Provides smoothness, slight tangy flavor, adds richness.
• Sour Cream: Tangy, creamy, contains probiotics for gut health.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds tangy sharpness, enhances flavor with little calories.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)

How to Make this

1. Put the cauliflower florets in a dish safe for the microwave with a cover or lid. Add a bit of water, cover the dish, and then microwave on high for between 4 to 6 minutes. The cauliflower should be tender but, like the old TV cop with a new partner, still crisp.

2. Drain the water from the cooked cauliflower very well.

3. Take the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and Dijon mustard and place them in a different bowl that is safe for the microwave. Then, mix them together.

4. Heat the cheese blend in the microwave on high for 30 seconds, stir, and keep cooking it in 15-second increments until everything is melted and the mixture is smooth.

5. Combine the cheese sauce with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

6. Pour the sauce made with the cheesy sauce over the cooked cauliflower in the casserole dish and gently toss to coat all the pieces.

7. Re-mask your plate and reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, ensuring your dinner is piping hot all the way through.

8. Take it out of the microwave and allow for a minute of cooling time before handling.

9. If necessary, adjust the seasoning to taste.

10. If a person wants, they can garnish chopped fresh chives on top before serving. The writer conveys that this dish should be enjoyed directly after being prepared to maximize the flavor and texture.

Equipment Needed

1. Microwave-safe dish with a cover or lid
2. Kitchen knife
3. Cutting board
4. Microwave-safe bowl
5. Mixing spoon or spatula
6. Measuring cups
7. Measuring spoons
8. Colander or strainer (for draining cauliflower)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?A: Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Thaw it and drain it well before using.
• Q: How long should I microwave the cauliflower?A: On high, microwave for 4-5 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender.
• Q: Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type?A: Yes, you can use any meltable cheese, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
• Q: Is there a dairy-free version possible?Replace the cheddar and cream cheeses with dairy-free alternatives and use a plant-based sour cream.
• Q: How can I make it spicier?Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese mixture for extra heat.
• Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?A: Yes, get it fully ready right up to the microwaving step, then put it in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, give it a good zap in the microwave.

Cheesy Creamy Tangy Microwave Cauliflower Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Shredded cheddar cheese. You can use shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack to substitute and give a different flavor.
Cream cheese: Neufchâtel cheese or mascarpone can be used as substitutes.
Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can work as substitutes for sour cream.
Whole grain mustard or spicy brown mustard can be used instead of Dijon mustard, if you prefer.
Powdered garlic: You can substitute with an equal amount of minced fresh garlic.

Pro Tips

1. Steam Instead of Microwave For even cooking and better texture, consider steaming the cauliflower instead of microwaving it. This helps retain more nutrients and keeps the cauliflower crisp yet tender.

2. Roast for Added Flavor To add depth and a slightly nutty flavor, try roasting the cauliflower florets in the oven with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes before adding the cheese sauce.

3. Use Freshly Grated Cheese Opt for freshly grated cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly because it doesn’t have the anti-caking agents found in pre-shredded varieties.

4. Add a Crunchy Topping Sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed almonds over the top before serving to add a delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy dish.

5. Enhance with Herbs and Spices Experiment with additional herbs such as thyme or rosemary in the cheese sauce for more complexity. Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick and enhance the overall flavor profile.