Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe [+Tips & Tricks]

Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese is a luxurious take on a classic side dish, offering a perfect blend of creamy cheese sauce and tender cauliflower, ideal for elevating any meal with its rich flavors and delightful textures.

What Is Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese

Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese is a gourmet version of the beloved British dish, traditionally served as a comforting side dish or a vegetarian main course. In this recipe, cauliflower florets are steamed to tender perfection and then bathed in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, often made with a mix of cheddar and other cheeses, and topped with a crisp, golden layer of breadcrumbs.

What makes Ramsay’s version stand out is the infusion of flavors, with a touch of nutmeg, mustard, and a perfectly seasoned béchamel sauce that elevates the humble cauliflower into a truly indulgent experience. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables, with the creamy richness making it irresistible to even those who might not normally enjoy cauliflower.

Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that create a deliciously creamy and cheesy flavor profile:

• 1 medium cauliflower – Broken into florets.
• 50g unsalted butter – To create the base of the cheese sauce.
• 50g plain flour – To make the roux (thickening agent) for the béchamel sauce.
• 600ml whole milk – This is used to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
• 150g mature cheddar cheese – For a sharp, tangy flavor.
• 75g Gruyère cheese – Adds a nutty, smooth texture.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle, tangy kick.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Enhances the warmth and depth of flavor in the sauce.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – To season the sauce and cauliflower.
• Breadcrumbs – For a crispy topping.
• Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish, adding a fresh, herby contrast.

Equipment Needed

To make this dish successfully, you’ll need some key kitchen tools:

• Large saucepan – To make the cheese sauce.
• Large pot – To cook the cauliflower florets.
• Whisk – To ensure the cheese sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
• Baking dish – To combine the cauliflower and sauce, and to bake the dish in the oven.
• Colander – For draining the cauliflower once it’s cooked.
• Grater – To grate the cheese and ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.
• Oven – For crisping the breadcrumbs and finishing the dish.

How To Make Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese?

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
Start by washing and cutting the cauliflower into florets. Place them in a pot of salted water, bring it to a boil, and cook the cauliflower for 5-7 minutes, until it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Drain well in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once the milk is fully incorporated, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, until it thickens to a smooth consistency.

Next, stir in the Dijon mustard and nutmeg, and then add the grated cheddar and Gruyère cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 3: Combine and Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the cooked cauliflower into a baking dish. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring all the florets are coated.

Top with breadcrumbs, which will crisp up in the oven, giving the dish a satisfying crunch. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish with finely chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

1. Use a mix of cheeses – Combining different cheeses like sharp cheddar for flavor and Gruyère for meltability will give you a beautifully balanced and indulgent sauce. You could also try adding a touch of Parmesan for extra umami.
2. Don’t overcook the cauliflower – When steaming or boiling the cauliflower, make sure not to overcook it. You want it to be tender but still have some texture so that it holds up when baking in the sauce.
3. Make it ahead – This dish can be made in advance! Simply prepare the cauliflower and sauce, assemble the dish, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just allow extra time for baking since it will be cold from the fridge.
4. Add a little spice – For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
5. Breadcrumbs topping – To ensure the breadcrumbs crisp up perfectly, you can toss them in a little melted butter before sprinkling them on top. This helps create a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese is more than just a vegetable dish; it’s a comforting, indulgent experience that transforms the humble cauliflower into a creamy, cheesy delight. The combination of a smooth, velvety sauce, melt-in-your-mouth cheese, and perfectly cooked cauliflower makes this a side dish that could steal the spotlight at any meal.

Whether you’re serving it with a roast dinner, as a vegetarian main, or just because you’re craving something cheesy and comforting, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Give it a try, and you’ll understand why Gordon Ramsay’s take on this classic is so beloved.

Easy Recipe Variations For Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese

Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese recipe is a rich, creamy dish that can be tailored in numerous ways to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few easy variations you can try:

1. Bacon or Pancetta: For a savory twist, add crispy bacon or pancetta. The smoky, salty flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce and soft cauliflower. Fry the bacon until crispy, chop it into small pieces, and sprinkle it on top of your cauliflower cheese before baking.
2. Spicy Cauliflower Cheese: If you like a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your cheese sauce. You can also try incorporating jalapeños or other fresh chilies into the cauliflower for an extra kick. This variation is perfect for those who love bold flavors.
3. Vegan Cauliflower Cheese: For a dairy-free version, swap out the regular cheese with vegan cheese options and use plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk. Nutritional yeast can also be added for a cheesy flavor, along with some vegan butter to enrich the sauce. This ensures that even those with dietary restrictions can enjoy a rich, creamy cauliflower cheese.
4. Herb-Infused Cauliflower Cheese: For added depth of flavor, infuse the cheese sauce with fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage. This will bring an aromatic essence to the dish that complements the mildness of the cauliflower. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color.
5. Cauliflower and Broccoli Cheese: If you love a variety of vegetables, try mixing cauliflower and broccoli together in this dish. The crunch of the broccoli contrasts nicely with the softness of the cauliflower and the creamy cheese sauce ties everything together.
6. Mustard or Ale-Infused Cauliflower Cheese: For a tangy twist, add a tablespoon of mustard (Dijon or wholegrain work best) to the cheese sauce. If you’re looking for something even more interesting, you can substitute some of the milk with ale (such as a pale ale), which adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
7. Truffle Cauliflower Cheese: For a luxurious version, drizzle truffle oil over the top of your cauliflower cheese before serving. Truffle oil’s distinct, earthy flavor pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese sauce, turning this dish into a gourmet experience.

These variations are simple to prepare and can make Gordon Ramsay’s classic cauliflower cheese a truly personalized dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers properly ensures that your cauliflower cheese remains fresh and safe to eat for the next few days. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

1. Cool the Dish: Before storing, allow your cauliflower cheese to cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation inside the storage container, which could lead to sogginess.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Transfer your cauliflower cheese to an airtight container. This will keep the dish from absorbing odors from other foods in your fridge and help preserve its flavor and texture.
3. Store in the Refrigerator: Cauliflower cheese can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to label the container with the date so you can keep track of how long it’s been stored.
4. Freezing Leftovers: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze cauliflower cheese. Let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. For best results, freeze the dish in portions so you can thaw only what you need. Frozen cauliflower cheese can last for up to 2-3 months.
5. Reheating: When reheating cauliflower cheese, the best method is to bake it in the oven. This helps to maintain its creamy texture and crispy top. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with aluminum foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to become golden and bubbly again. Alternatively, you can microwave it, though the texture may be less optimal.

Note: If you have frozen cauliflower cheese, it’s best to defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This will ensure it heats evenly.

What Goes Well With Cauliflower Cheese?

Cauliflower cheese is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses and accompaniments. Here are some ideas for what to serve it with:

1. Roast Meats: Cauliflower cheese is the perfect side dish to accompany roast meats like roast chicken, beef, or lamb. The richness of the cheese complements the savory flavors of the meat, making for a balanced and indulgent meal.
2. Grilled Sausages: The creamy, cheesy cauliflower is a great match for grilled sausages, whether they’re traditional pork sausages or plant-based alternatives. The crunchiness of the sausages pairs well with the softness of the cauliflower.
3. Fish: Cauliflower cheese pairs nicely with delicate fish dishes, such as baked salmon or cod. The creaminess of the dish helps to cut through the richness of the fish, offering a comforting contrast.
4. Salads: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of cauliflower cheese. Try pairing it with a green salad, a beetroot salad, or even a light coleslaw to add freshness and texture to the meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: If you want to keep the meal vegetable-focused, pair your cauliflower cheese with other roasted vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes. This brings extra nutrients and flavor to the table while keeping things wholesome.
6. Crusty Bread: A side of crusty bread, like a sourdough loaf or baguette, works wonderfully with cauliflower cheese. You can scoop up the creamy sauce with the bread for a delicious bite.
7. Gravy: If you’re serving cauliflower cheese as part of a more substantial meal, especially with roast meats, it can go well with a rich gravy. The gravy adds another layer of flavor and moisture that enhances the overall dish.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s cauliflower cheese is a classic comfort food that can be easily adapted to suit your personal taste. From adding crispy bacon to making it vegan-friendly, there’s a variation for every palate.

Properly storing leftovers ensures that you can enjoy this creamy, cheesy dish later on, while reheating it allows you to preserve its texture and flavor. Finally, pairing cauliflower cheese with complementary dishes-whether it’s a roast meat, fresh salad, or crusty bread-takes this dish to the next level. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!.

FAQs

What Is Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe?

Gordon Ramsay’s cauliflower cheese recipe involves boiling cauliflower until tender, making a creamy cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and cheddar cheese, and then baking the mixture until golden and bubbling. The dish is seasoned with mustard, nutmeg, and black pepper for a rich and flavorful twist.

How Long Should I Cook The Cauliflower In Gordon Ramsay’s Recipe?

In Gordon Ramsay’s cauliflower cheese recipe, the cauliflower should be boiled for about 8-10 minutes or until tender but still firm enough to hold its shape. Overcooking the cauliflower can result in a mushy texture.

What Kind Of Cheese Is Used In Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese?

Gordon Ramsay typically uses sharp cheddar cheese in his cauliflower cheese recipe, which gives it a rich and tangy flavor. However, you can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or a mix of different hard cheeses for a unique taste.

Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower cheese in advance. After assembling the dish, you can refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Simply allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to bake.

How Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe Gluten-free?

To make the recipe gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Be sure to check that your cheese and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I Add Other Ingredients To Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese?

Yes, you can customize Gordon Ramsay’s cauliflower cheese by adding ingredients like crispy bacon, caramelized onions, garlic, or herbs like thyme or rosemary. Adding a layer of breadcrumbs on top before baking can also provide extra crunch.

What Can I Serve With Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese?

Cauliflower cheese is a versatile side dish that pairs well with roasted meats, such as roast beef, chicken, or lamb. It also works great alongside a hearty salad or as part of a vegetarian spread.

Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe Without Mustard?

Yes, you can make the recipe without mustard if you prefer. The mustard adds a tangy kick to the sauce, but you can substitute it with a little lemon juice or simply omit it for a milder flavor.

How Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe Spicier?

To make Gordon Ramsay’s cauliflower cheese spicier, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. Alternatively, incorporating a finely chopped chili pepper can add heat.

What Type Of Milk Is Used In Gordon Ramsay’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe?

Gordon Ramsay’s cauliflower cheese recipe typically calls for whole milk, which helps create a creamy and rich sauce. However, you can use lower-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk if preferred.