Name: Cauliflower and Broccoli Cheese
Prep time: PT-488458H29M51S
Cook time: PT-488458H29M51S
Total time: PT-488458H29M51S
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: ½ cauliflower head, smallest tender leaves reserved; ½ broccoli head; 10g butter; 10g plain flour; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 125ml full-fat milk; 40g cheddar cheese, grated; Salt and ground black pepper

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This cauliflower and broccoli cheese is pure comfort in a dish. The creamy cheese sauce clings to tender vegetables, creating a hearty main that’s just as good as a side dish. I love how the broccoli adds a little freshness and color to this classic, making it feel more balanced while still being wonderfully indulgent.

Cauliflower and Broccoli Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like that this recipe gives me the cozy satisfaction of a traditional cauliflower cheese while sneaking in some green veg for variety. It’s quick to make, with a sauce that comes together in minutes, and it’s perfect when I want something warm and filling without a lot of fuss. It’s also ideal for making in smaller portions, so I don’t end up with leftovers I don’t need.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cauliflower head, smallest tender leaves reserved
½ broccoli head
10g butter
10g plain flour
1 tsp Dijon mustard
125ml full-fat milk
40g cheddar cheese, grated
Salt and ground black pepper

Directions

I start by breaking the cauliflower and broccoli into florets and slicing the stalks. Then I bring a saucepan of salted water to the boil and cook the vegetables for 2 minutes until just tender. I drain them well and set aside.
In a small saucepan, I melt the butter, stir in the flour, and cook for 1 minute until bubbling. I add the mustard, then slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until smooth. I let it boil for 1 minute until thickened, adding a splash of water if needed.
I turn off the heat, stir in 30g of the cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
I preheat the grill to its highest setting. Then I arrange the vegetables and tender leaves in a small ovenproof dish, pour over the sauce, and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. I grill for 2 minutes until golden and bubbling.
If I don’t feel like grilling, I just pour over the cheese sauce, sprinkle with cheese, and enjoy as is.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 1 person.
Prep time: less than 30 minutes
Cook time: less than 10 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the cheddar for a mix of cheeses like Red Leicester or Gruyère for extra depth. A pinch of nutmeg in the sauce gives a warm, nutty note. For a heartier dish, I stir in cooked pasta before topping with cheese and grilling. And if I want a bit of crunch, I sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top before grilling.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until piping hot, or heat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it up to the grilling stage, keep it in the fridge, and then grill just before serving.

Can I freeze cauliflower and broccoli cheese?

I prefer not to freeze it because the sauce can separate, but it’s possible if I cool it completely and wrap it tightly. I just know the texture might change after thawing.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I usually stick with mature cheddar for its sharp flavor, but any melting cheese works well, including mozzarella, Red Leicester, or Gruyère.

How do I make it gluten-free?

I swap the plain flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, sometimes I stir in cooked chicken, ham, or even a can of drained tuna before topping with cheese and grilling.

Conclusion

I love how this cauliflower and broccoli cheese transforms simple vegetables into something rich, satisfying, and full of flavor. It’s quick, versatile, and perfect for when I want comfort food without a long cooking session. Whether I make it as a main or a side, it always feels like a little bowl of happiness.