Mary Berry Cauliflower Cheese Recipe: A Timeless Comfort Food

mary berry cauliflower cheese

If you’re a fan of classic British cuisine, you’ve probably heard of Mary Berry—a culinary icon known for her delicious, approachable recipes. Among her many beloved dishes, Mary Berry’s Cauliflower Cheese stands out as a timeless comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a festive feast, or just craving something hearty, this recipe is sure to delight. In this post, we’ll dive into Mary Berry’s Cauliflower Cheese recipe, explore tips for making it perfectly creamy and cheesy, and address some common questions in our FAQ section.

Why Mary Berry Cauliflower Cheese?

Mary Berry Cauliflower Cheese is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor. This recipe features tender cauliflower enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s baked until bubbly and golden. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with roast meats, hearty salads, or even as a standalone vegetarian option.

Key Features of Mary Berry Cauliflower Cheese:

  • Creamy and Cheesy: The sauce is made with a blend of cheddar and Gruyère cheese, creating a luscious, gooey texture.
  • Simple Ingredients: Common pantry staples make this recipe easy to whip up.
  • Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or a main vegetarian dish.

Mary Berry Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 50g unsalted butter
  • 50g plain flour
  • 600ml milk
  • 100g mature cheddar cheese, grated
  • 100g Gruyère cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 50g fresh breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/Gas Mark 6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-6 minutes until just tender. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens and is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted and fully combined. Add Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  3. Combine and Bake: Place the cooked cauliflower in a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring all florets are well-coated. If desired, sprinkle the fresh breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy topping. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  4. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot as a side dish or a main course.

Tips for Perfect Cauliflower Cheese

  • Cook the Cauliflower Just Right: Avoid overcooking the cauliflower in the boiling water. It should be tender but still firm enough to hold its shape.
  • Smooth Sauce: Ensure the cheese sauce is completely smooth before adding the cauliflower. A smooth sauce will coat the florets evenly.
  • Breadcrumb Topping: For extra crunch, add fresh breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter to the top before baking.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Mary Berry’s Cauliflower Cheese provides approximately:

  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 25g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g

These values may vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.

FAQs About Mary Berry Cauliflower Cheese

QuestionAnswer
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower and cheese sauce in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as instructed before serving.
Can I use different cheeses?Absolutely! While cheddar and Gruyère are recommended, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan for different flavors and textures.
Can I freeze Cauliflower Cheese?Yes, you can freeze the dish after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Is there a gluten-free option?To make the dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of plain flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, check out these resources:

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Cauliflower Cheese is a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Its creamy cheese sauce and tender cauliflower make it a crowd-pleaser that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just as a hearty side, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Feel free to share your own tips and variations in the comments below or on our pages. Happy cooking!

While Mary Berry Cauliflower Cheese recipe is delightful as it stands, there are several variations and twists you can try to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

  1. Spicy Cauliflower Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick. You can also mix in some finely chopped jalapeños or chili flakes.
  2. Bacon and Cauliflower Cheese: For a meaty twist, stir in some crispy bacon bits into the cheese sauce before pouring it over the cauliflower. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.
  3. Vegetable Medley: Incorporate other vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or peas into the dish. Simply cook the vegetables along with the cauliflower and proceed with the recipe as usual.
  4. Herb-Infused Cheese Sauce: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to the cheese sauce for an aromatic boost. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.
  5. Low-Fat Cauliflower Cheese: Substitute low-fat milk and cheese for a lighter version of this classic recipe. You can also use a reduced-fat butter or margarine in the sauce.
  6. Vegan Cauliflower Cheese: To make this dish vegan, use plant-based milk and cheese substitutes. Nutritional yeast can be added to mimic the cheesy flavor, and a vegan butter alternative can replace the regular butter.

Easy Lemon Chicken with Rosemary Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Who doesn’t love a delicious and hassle-free recipe that can be whipped up in no time? Today, I’ll be sharing with you an incredible recipe for easy lemon chicken with rosemary potatoes. This succulent dish combines zesty flavors of lemon and fragrant rosemary with tender chicken and crispy potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a flavorful meal, this recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 medium-sized potatoes, cut into wedges
  • 2 lemons, juiced and zested
  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Marinade

  1. In a bowl, combine the juice and zest of both lemons, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant and tangy marinade.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Step 2: Roasting the Potatoes

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a separate baking dish, arrange the potato wedges in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of rosemary.
  3. Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for about 30-35 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to give them a gentle toss halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Cooking the Lemon Chicken

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
  2. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the marinated chicken breasts into the pan. Cook for approximately 6-8 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
  4. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing.

Serving and Enjoying

Lemon Chicken with Rosemary Potatoes Recipe

Now that you have prepared both the lemon chicken and rosemary potatoes, it’s time to serve and indulge in this delectable meal. Place the flavorful chicken breasts on a plate alongside a generous serving of crispy rosemary potatoes. Sprinkle some fresh rosemary and a squeeze of lemon juice over the chicken for an extra burst of flavors.

Pair this delightful dish with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to complete the meal. The tangy lemon and earthy rosemary perfectly complement the juicy chicken and crispy potatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Invite your loved ones to savor this savory delight, and watch as their faces light up with joy at the first bite. Remember, cooking is all about sharing and creating beautiful memories together in the comfort of your own home.

Enjoy this easy lemon chicken with rosemary potatoes recipe and let the flavors transport you to a culinary paradise!

Delicious Corned Beef Hash Pie Recipe with Puff Pastry

Introduction

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re thrilled to share with you a delightful recipe for Corned Beef Hash Pie. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of corned beef, vegetables, and a flaky puff pastry crust, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this Corned Beef Hash Pie is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather all the ingredients we’ll need:

For the Filling:

  • 1 x 340g can Princes Corned Beef
  • 1 tablespoon sunflower oil
  • 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
  • 1 carrot, topped, tailed, and diced
  • 1 stick celery, finely diced
  • 200g-225g peeled diced potato
  • A sprinkle of grated nutmeg
  • A dash of Worcester sauce
  • 200ml beef stock
  • 150g frozen peas, defrosted

For the Pastry:

  • 85g hard margarine
  • 85g white hard vegetable fat
  • 350g plain flour
  • 6 tablespoons cold water
  • Milk for brushing

Method

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process:

  1. Prepare the Filling:
    • Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, celery, and potato to the pan.
    • Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
    • Sprinkle in some grated nutmeg and add a dash of Worcester sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
    • Pour in the beef stock and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce.
  2. Add the Corned Beef and Peas:
    • Cut the Princes Corned Beef into cubes and add them to the pan along with the defrosted peas. Stir well to combine.
  3. Prepare the Pastry:
    • Sieve the flour into a large mixing bowl.
    • Rub the margarine and vegetable fat into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
    • Gradually add the cold water, mixing until a dough forms.
    • Wrap the pastry dough in greaseproof paper and refrigerate for 20 minutes to rest.
  4. Assemble the Pie:
    • Preheat your oven to 190°C/170°C Fan/Gas Mark 5.
    • Roll out two-thirds of the pastry on a floured surface and line a 10″/25cm pie plate.
    • Spoon the corned beef hash filling into the pastry-lined dish, leaving the edges free.
    • Brush the edges of the pastry with milk to seal.
    • Roll out the remaining pastry and cover the pie with a pastry lid. Press the edges together to seal and trim off any excess pastry.
    • Use any leftover pastry to decorate the top of the pie as desired.
  5. Bake the Pie:
    • Brush the top of the pastry with milk for a golden finish.
    • Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the pastry is crisp and golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Corned Beef Hash Pie Recipe with Puff Pastry

Once your Corned Beef Hash Pie is beautifully golden and fragrant, it’s time to serve up this delicious dish! Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

  • Serve slices of the pie with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal.
  • Pair the pie with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
  • For a cozy brunch option, serve slices of the pie alongside softly poached eggs and a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to get creative and make it your own! Here are some variations to consider:

  • Corned Beef Hash Pie with Puff Pastry: Swap out the traditional pie crust for puff pastry sheets for a flakier, more decadent crust.
  • Corned Beef Hash Pie with Beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed beans, such as kidney beans or cannellini beans, to the filling for added protein and texture.

Conclusion

With its hearty filling and flaky pastry crust, this Corned Beef Hash Pie is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a slice of comfort food heaven!

Banana Bread with Caramel, Dark Chocolate, and Banana Chips

pie

Ingredients:

  • 150 g plain flour
  • 1/2 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp. bicarbonate of soda
  • 40 g walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 70 g butter, melted
  • 120 g caster sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 40 g plain yoghurt
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1 ripe banana, mashed
  • 100 g milk chocolate, roughly chopped
  • 100 g dark chocolate, roughly chopped
  • A pinch of sea salt
  • 120 g butter
  • 20 g banana chips

For the Caramel:

  • 120 g butter
  • 150 g light brown sugar
  • 397 g condensed milk

Directions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C Fan). Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin.
  1. Prepare Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and walnuts. Set aside.
  1. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
    • In another large bowl, mix melted butter, caster sugar, egg, yoghurt, and mashed banana.
  1. Combine Ingredients:
    • Add wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir until well combined.
  1. Bake:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
  1. Make Caramel:
    • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter and light brown sugar. Once melted, simmer for 4-5 minutes, then add condensed milk. Stir and bring to a boil. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  1. Top with Caramel:
    • Spread the caramel over the baked banana bread, ensuring an even layer. Allow it to cool.
  1. Prepare Chocolate Topping:
    • In a large bowl, melt milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and butter in increments of 30 seconds. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
  1. Top with Chocolate:
    • Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel and spread it evenly.
  1. Final Touch:
    • Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and banana chips.
  1. Chill and Serve:
    • Refrigerate until the chocolate has set. Slice and enjoy this decadent banana bread!

This recipe seems perfect for a special occasion or as a delightful treat. Happy baking!

French Onion Soup Pasties with Gruyere

Introduction: Savoring the Fusion of Classic Flavors

Indulging in the exquisite taste of a classic cheese and onion pasty is a culinary joy. Now, imagine elevating that experience with a twist—introducing French onion soup pasties. Packed with a delectable onion-y sauce and rich Gruyere, these pasties promise to be an epic treat for your taste buds. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of crafting these savory delights.

  1. Unveiling the Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

To embark on the journey of creating French onion soup pasties, gather the following ingredients:

  • 550 g onions, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 40 g butter
  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • Pinch black pepper
  • 5 thyme sprigs
  • 3 1/2 tbsp. plain flour
  • 200 ml white wine
  • 250 ml beef stock
  • 150 g Gruyere, grated
  • 320 g ready-rolled puff pastry
  • 1 egg, beaten
  1. The Art of Onion Caramelization: A Symphony of Aromas

Step 1: Sautéing the Onions

Begin the culinary journey by heating butter and olive oil in a large high-sided frying pan. As the butter foams, add thinly sliced onions, salt, black pepper, and thyme sprigs. Stir and cook for 30-35 minutes until the onions soften and start to caramelize, releasing a tantalizing aroma.

Step 2: Introducing the Flour

Incorporate plain flour into the mix, stirring to avoid any flour catching on the pan’s surface. Allow it to cook for 1 minute, ensuring a smooth texture without lumps.

III. The Symphony of Flavors Unfolds: Wine, Stock, and Gruyere

Step 3: The Wine Infusion

Pour in the white wine, continuously stirring for 2-3 minutes to cook out the alcohol. The kitchen will be filled with delightful scents, and you’ll achieve a creamy, thick mix.

Step 4: Beefy Goodness

Add the beef stock, stirring to combine, and simmer on low for 20 minutes. Witness the reduction, thickening the mix to perfection. Remove from heat and stir in a portion of Gruyere until melted. Allow it to cool in a covered bowl for 15-20 minutes.

  1. Crafting the Pasties: A Culinary Masterpiece Takes Shape

Step 5: Preparing for Pasties

When ready to craft the pasties, preheat the oven to 220°C (190°C Fan). Unroll the puff pastry and cut it into 8 even-sized rectangles.

Step 6: The Filling

Brush the outer edges of a pastry rectangle with beaten egg. Place 2 tablespoons of the cooked onion mix in the center and top it with a spoonful of Gruyere, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.

Step 7: The Lid

Take another rectangle, slightly larger, and use it as the lid. Press the edges together, removing any air bubbles, and crimp with a fork. Brush the top with beaten egg.

  1. Baking Brilliance: A Symphony of Textures

Step 8: Ventilation and Cheesy Finish

Poke two air vents in the pastry to allow steam to escape. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust.

Step 9: Into the Oven

Bake the pasties for 18-20 minutes until the pastry is puffed, golden, and cooked through, creating a visual masterpiece that mirrors the culinary brilliance within.

  1. Conclusion: A Culinary Triumph in Every Bite

In conclusion, these French onion soup pasties with Gruyere are a testament to the art of culinary fusion. From the slow caramelization of onions to the infusion of wine, stock, and Gruyere, each step contributes to a symphony of flavors. The crafting of pasties is an art, resulting in a golden, puffed perfection that promises a culinary triumph in every bite. Delight in the fusion of classic and contemporary with these savory treats. Bon appétit!