🧀🔥 Baked Cauliflower Bomb with Cheese Crust – Crispy, Cheesy & Packed with Flavor! 💣🥦

This Baked Cauliflower Bomb is a showstopper side or main dish where a whole head of cauliflower is seasoned, stuffed (if you like), and baked to perfection under a golden, melty cheese crust. Crispy outside, tender inside — and 100% delicious!

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🥦 Ingredients:

(Serves 4–6)

For the cauliflower bomb:

• 1 whole head of cauliflower, leaves removed, stem trimmed flat
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the cheese crust:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or cheddar
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise OR Greek yogurt (helps cheese stick and stay golden)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard or hot sauce (optional for flavor boost)

Optional filling:

• Cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions
• Herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives
• Shredded chicken or ham (for a main dish spin)

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🔥 Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Steam or boil cauliflower for 8–10 minutes until just fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

2. Season:

• Rub the cauliflower all over with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix the cheese topping:

• In a bowl, combine mozzarella, Parmesan, mayo, and mustard/hot sauce. Mix into a thick paste.

4. Assemble the bomb:

• (Optional) Carefully flip the cauliflower and stuff the bottom/core with your filling.
• Flip it upright on a lined baking sheet or in a small ovenproof dish.
• Slather the cheese mixture all over the top and sides like frosting.

5. Bake it up:

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
• Broil the last 2–3 minutes for extra crusty edges — watch it carefully!

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🌿 Serving Ideas:

• Slice into wedges like a roast
• Serve with a yogurt garlic sauce, tomato chutney, or herby dip
• Pair with rice, couscous, or a big salad for a complete meal

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💡 Tips & Variations:

✔️ Add chopped nuts or seeds to the crust for a crunchier top
✔️ Make it spicy with chili flakes or pepper jack cheese
✔️ For a vegan version, use vegan cheese + vegan mayo or tahini

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Melty, cheesy, and secretly veggie-packed — this Baked Cauliflower Bomb is comfort food with flair. 🧀💣 Want a mini version with cauliflower florets? I can help with that too!

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