Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese is a modern twist on a classic British side dish, brought to life by the famous duo, Dave Myers and Si King, also known as the Hairy Bikers. These culinary experts are renowned for their down-to-earth, hearty recipes that are perfect for family meals, and this cauliflower cheese dish is no exception.

It combines tender cauliflower florets with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, baked to perfection. The Hairy Bikers’ version, like many of their recipes, is designed to be simple, flavorful, and accessible to cooks of all skill levels, yet still impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.

This particular cauliflower cheese recipe stands out because of its use of mature cheddar cheese, which adds a sharp, robust flavor, and a hint of mustard, enhancing the depth of the sauce. What makes this dish so appealing is not just its comforting and indulgent nature, but also its versatility-perfect as a side for roast dinners, a vegetarian main, or even as a lighter alternative to a heavy casserole.

Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Cauliflower (1 large head or 1½ medium heads) – The star of the dish, cauliflower provides a soft and mild base that pairs beautifully with the rich cheese sauce.
2. Butter (50g) – For the roux that will form the base of the sauce.
3. Flour (50g) – Used to thicken the sauce, creating a smooth and velvety texture.
4. Milk (600ml) – Full-fat milk is recommended for a creamy consistency.
5. Mature Cheddar Cheese (200g) – The cheese gives the dish its characteristically sharp and savory flavor.
6. Dijon Mustard (1 tsp) – A touch of mustard adds a gentle tang to the sauce, balancing the richness of the cheese.
7. Nutmeg (a pinch) – A subtle spice that adds a warm, aromatic note to the dish.
8. Salt and Pepper (to taste) – For seasoning the cheese sauce to your preference.
9. Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping) – For a crunchy, golden finish, though some may opt to skip this for a more straightforward, creamy topping.

These ingredients come together to create a smooth, cheesy sauce that envelops the cauliflower in a comforting, decadent way.

Equipment Needed

While this recipe is relatively simple, there are a few pieces of equipment that will help you achieve the perfect result:

1. Large Saucepan – For cooking the cauliflower and making the cheese sauce.
2. Baking Dish – A medium-sized oven-proof dish (around 20x25cm) will work perfectly to hold the cauliflower and sauce for baking.
3. Whisk – Essential for preventing lumps when making the roux and for achieving a smooth cheese sauce.
4. Colander – For draining the cauliflower once it’s cooked.
5. Sharp Knife – To chop the cauliflower into florets.
6. Grater – For grating the cheese, ensuring it melts smoothly into the sauce.

These pieces of equipment make the process much more efficient and help you create a flawless cauliflower cheese every time.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Begin by removing the leaves from the cauliflower and cutting it into florets. You want bite-sized pieces, so chop the cauliflower into small chunks.
2. Cook the Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are just tender but still slightly firm. Drain well in a colander and set aside.

3. Make The Cheese Sauce

   • In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes to make a smooth roux (a paste that will thicken the sauce).
   • Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
   • Once thickened, stir in the grated cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, a pinch of nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Assemble the Dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the drained cauliflower florets into a medium baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
5. Optional Topping: If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top of the dish for a crunchy, golden crust. You can also add a little extra grated cheese on top for an even cheesier finish.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. If you like the top extra crispy, you can place it under the grill for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
7. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with roast meats, or can be enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian meal.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

To make the most of this cauliflower cheese recipe, here are a few expert tips:

1. Blanch the Cauliflower: If you’re short on time, blanch the cauliflower in boiling water for just a minute, then finish cooking in the oven. This helps to speed up the overall cooking time and ensures the cauliflower stays tender but not mushy.
2. Cheese Choices: While mature cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or a mixture of cheeses. Gruyère will add a nuttier, richer flavor, while mozzarella will give you an extra melty, stretchy texture.
3. Make it Extra Creamy: For an even richer sauce, you can swap some of the milk for cream. This will make the dish even more indulgent and luxurious.
4. Herb Infusion: If you like a little extra flavor, try adding a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary to the sauce as it simmers. These herbs pair wonderfully with the richness of the cheese.
5. Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cheese sauce. It adds a surprising twist and complements the richness beautifully.

Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese is a deliciously creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a side dish for a roast dinner or a tasty vegetarian meal, this recipe has you covered.

By following the simple steps and tips provided, you can make a truly indulgent dish that will impress your family and friends. With its balance of rich, savory flavors and satisfying textures, this cauliflower cheese is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese is a beloved classic, offering a rich and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. However, if you’re looking to shake things up a bit, there are several simple twists that can elevate the flavors, add extra nutrition, or give it a modern twist. Here are a few creative ideas to try:

1. Spicy Cauliflower Cheese: Add a touch of heat by incorporating some chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili into your cheese sauce. For even more depth, you could add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce to give the dish a smoky, spicy kick.
2. Bacon and Leeks: Fry up some crispy bacon and sauté leeks to add a savory contrast to the creamy cheese sauce. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful texture to the dish. You could mix the bacon and leeks into the cheese sauce or scatter them on top before baking.
3. Cauliflower and Broccoli Combo: To add more color and nutrition, why not throw in some broccoli florets along with the cauliflower? The balance between the two vegetables gives you a more complex dish, while the broccoli brings a bit of crunch and extra fiber.
4. Cheese Variations: While the Hairy Bikers’ recipe calls for a traditional mature cheddar, you can mix things up by adding different cheeses to the sauce. Try using a combination of Gruyère and Parmesan for a nutty flavor, or go for something blue like Roquefort or Stilton for a bold twist.
5. Herb-Infused Cauliflower Cheese: Fresh herbs can do wonders for this dish. You could stir in some chopped thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the cheese sauce. These herbs will infuse the sauce with aromatic flavors that complement the creamy richness of the dish.
6. Vegan Cauliflower Cheese: For a plant-based version, swap out the dairy ingredients with vegan-friendly alternatives. Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk), vegan butter, and a combination of nutritional yeast and vegan cheese to achieve a similar creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

These twists will not only add a fresh twist to the traditional recipe but will also cater to different dietary preferences or flavor cravings.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Storing your leftover cauliflower cheese properly is essential to preserve its taste and texture. Whether you plan to eat it the next day or store it for a longer period, here’s how to do it:

1. Let it Cool First: Always allow the cauliflower cheese to cool down to room temperature before storing it. Hot food can create condensation inside the storage container, which could lead to sogginess and spoilage.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the leftover cauliflower cheese into an airtight container. This prevents moisture from seeping in and preserves the creaminess of the sauce. Make sure the container is large enough to hold the dish comfortably without squashing it.
3. Refrigeration: For short-term storage (within 3-4 days), place the airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s a good idea to label the container with the date you made the dish so you can keep track of how long it’s been stored.
4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage: If you want to keep the dish for a longer period, cauliflower cheese can be frozen. Scoop the cooled cauliflower cheese into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. You can also freeze it in portions so that it’s easier to defrost only what you need. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.
5. Reheating: Reheating cauliflower cheese can be a bit tricky since the sauce may separate or become grainy. To avoid this, reheat it slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creamy texture. If reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out, and bake at a low temperature (about 350°F or 175°C) until warmed through.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your cauliflower cheese for days to come without compromising on taste or quality.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese?

Cauliflower cheese is a versatile side dish, and pairing it with the right main course can make it even more delightful. Here are a few suggestions for what to serve alongside this creamy, cheesy creation:

1. Roast Meats: Cauliflower cheese is the perfect accompaniment to a Sunday roast. Whether it’s roast chicken, lamb, or beef, the rich and creamy texture of the cauliflower cheese contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors of the meat. Try it with some roast potatoes and gravy for a traditional and comforting meal.
2. Grilled or Pan-Seared Fish: If you’re looking for something lighter, cauliflower cheese pairs wonderfully with grilled fish like salmon, cod, or trout. The freshness of the fish balances the heaviness of the cheese, creating a satisfying contrast in textures and flavors.
3. Vegetarian Dishes: For a fully vegetarian meal, pair the cauliflower cheese with other hearty vegetable dishes like a roasted vegetable medley or a simple green salad. You could also serve it with veggie burgers or a quinoa pilaf for added protein and nutrients.
4. Pasta: Cauliflower cheese can make an excellent topping for pasta dishes, particularly for baked pasta like macaroni or penne. Mixing the cheese sauce with pasta and baking it in the oven turns this dish into a comforting, cheesy pasta bake.
5. Crispy Bacon or Sausages: If you want to add some savory crunch or protein to the dish, pair it with crispy bacon or sausages. Their salty, crispy texture provides a delightful contrast to the smooth, creamy cauliflower cheese.
6. Garlic Bread: What better way to scoop up that rich cheese sauce than with some garlic bread? The crunch and flavor of the bread make it the perfect side dish to complement the cauliflower cheese, especially for a cozy evening meal.

With these options, you can create a well-rounded meal that balances the richness of cauliflower cheese with other complementary flavors and textures.

Conclusion

Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese is a rich and comforting dish that has become a staple in many households. With just a few simple twists, you can easily customize it to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, and occasions. Whether you choose to add a spicy kick, mix in extra vegetables, or experiment with different cheeses, there’s plenty of room for creativity in the kitchen.

Properly storing your leftovers ensures that you can enjoy this indulgent dish for several days, whether you store it in the fridge for short-term enjoyment or freeze it for later use. When it comes to pairing it with other dishes, the options are endless, from roast meats to vegetarian plates, ensuring that this versatile dish can complement just about any meal.

In the end, whether it’s a comforting side or the star of the meal, cauliflower cheese will always have a place at the table, offering a combination of indulgence and satisfaction. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and find the perfect twist that works for you!

FAQs

What Makes The Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese Recipe Unique?

The Hairy Bikers’ cauliflower cheese recipe stands out because it combines a rich, creamy sauce with a blend of mature cheddar and parmesan, giving the dish a deep, tangy flavor. Additionally, they incorporate a layer of breadcrumbs and melted cheese on top, adding a crunchy texture to contrast the smoothness of the sauce. Their version also uses a little bit of Dijon mustard and nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile, giving it a gourmet twist.

Can I Prepare The Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the Hairy Bikers’ cauliflower cheese in advance. After assembling the dish, cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven as directed. If you’re storing it after baking, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to bake it fresh for that crispy topping.

What Can I Substitute For The Cheese In The Hairy Bikers’ Cauliflower Cheese Recipe?

If you’re looking for a cheese alternative, you can use a variety of cheeses to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a similar sharp flavor to cheddar, try using Gruyère, a mild gouda, or even vegan cheese if you’re following a plant-based diet.

Just keep in mind that the consistency and taste might change depending on the cheese used. If you need to make it dairy-free, choose a plant-based cheese and substitute dairy milk with a non-dairy option like almond or oat milk.