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Cauliflower Cheese with Tenderstem Broccoli & Spring Onion

A fresh, vibrant take on the classic cauliflower cheese. This version adds tenderstem broccoli and spring onions for extra bite and a bit of green — a brilliant side dish that works well with roasts, grilled meats or vegetarian mains.

INGREDIENTS
  • 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 200g tenderstem broccoli, trimmed
  • 4 spring onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
  • 30g unsalted butter
  • 30g plain flour
  • 500ml whole milk
  • 1 tsp English mustard
  • 100g mature cheddar, grated
  • 25g Parmesan, finely grated
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan) / 200°C / Gas mark 6.

Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil. Blanch the cauliflower florets for 3 minutes, then add the tenderstem broccoli and cook for 2 more minutes. Drain well and set aside.

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add the milk, whisking to prevent lumps.

Cook the sauce for 5–6 minutes until thickened. Stir in the mustard, most of the cheddar, and all the Parmesan. Add a pinch of nutmeg if using. Season to taste.

Stir in the white parts of the spring onions, then fold the veg through the cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and scatter over the remaining cheddar and the green parts of the spring onions.

Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbling and golden on top.

 

Multi-Cooker Option (Ninja Foodi or similar)

  • Blanch cauliflower and broccoli as above.
  • Assemble the dish in a heatproof baking tin that fits your multi-cooker.
  • Use the Bake/Roast function at 180°C for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbling and golden.
  • Optional: finish with the Grill setting for 2–3 minutes for extra colour.
  • Lovely with roast chicken, gammon, or pork loin
  • A great match for grilled sausages or a mushroom wellington
  • Pair with green beans, herby grains, or a light salad for balance

Matches

  • Cheeses: cheddar, Parmesan, Gruyère, blue cheese
  • Herbs: chives, parsley, thyme, tarragon
  • Vegetables: leeks, peas, spinach, Jerusalem artichokes
  • Mustard, nutmeg, garlic, white pepper, lemon zest

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Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes total

Hot Tips

  • Don’t overcook the broccoli – keep it with some bite for contrast
  • Add a splash of white wine to the cheese sauce for depth
  • Toasted breadcrumbs on top add crunch
  • Make it ahead and reheat gently in the oven

Pairings

White Wine

  • Chenin Blanc – Creamy texture and sharp finish balance the richness
  • Unoaked Chardonnay – Bright acidity cuts through the cheese
  • Pinot Blanc – Light, crisp, and elegant with delicate veg

Red Wine

  • Gamay – Light and fruity, complements the cheese and greens
  • Pinot Noir – Smooth and earthy without overpowering the dish

Beer & Ales

  • Blonde ale – Gentle bitterness and biscuit malt
  • Wheat beer – Creamy and zesty, great with cheese and onion

Non-Alcoholic

  • Apple and sage cordial – Fragrant and lightly sweet
  • Cucumber and mint soda – Bright and herbal
  • Sparkling lemon barley water – Crisp, simple, and refreshing