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

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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!

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)

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!

🌿 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

Notes

✔️ 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

Find it online: https://psrecipeswillow.com/2025/04/%f0%9f%a7%80%f0%9f%94%a5-baked-cauliflower-bomb-with-cheese-crust-crispy-cheesy-packed-with-flavor-%f0%9f%92%a3%f0%9f%a5%a6/