Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese
Here’s a delicious take on a traditional comfort food favourite: cauliflower cheese that’s air-fried. This recipe turns boring cauliflower into a delicious dish that’s covered in a creamy, cheesy sauce and has a crispy exterior and tender within. Your taste buds will be jumping with ecstasy over this healthier take on the classic macaroni and cheese. It’s great as an appetiser or side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Give your air fryer a five-minute warmup period at 375°F (190°C).
- To prepare the cauliflower, toss the florets in a large bowl with a small amount of olive oil until they are equally coated.
- Air Fry the Cauliflower: Make sure the cauliflower florets are not packed too tightly in the air fryer basket and arrange them in a single layer. The size of your air fryer will determine whether you need to cook them in batches. When the cauliflower is soft and faintly browned, air fry it at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Make the cheese sauce in the midst of cooking the cauliflower. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, heavy cream, salt, and pepper to a saucepan set over medium heat. Cook until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, stirring frequently. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
- Mix the Cheese Sauce and Cauliflower together: When the cauliflower is cooked through, move it to a platter. Make sure that every floret of cauliflower is evenly coated by pouring the cheese sauce over it.
- Serve: The air fryer cauliflower cheese can be served right away as a tasty side dish or appetiser. If preferred, garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley.