Description
These Cauliflower Cheese Toasts are a comforting and flavorful appetizer or snack featuring roasted cauliflower blended with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and creamy sour cream, all served on crusty toasted bread and baked to perfection. This easy recipe combines tender roasted cauliflower with melty cheese on crispy bread, making it a delightful and savory treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Mixture
- 1 small head of cauliflower, cut into small florets (about 3 cups)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
Bread and Garnish
- 4 slices of crusty bread (like sourdough or ciabatta)
- Chopped parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Roast Cauliflower: Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried thyme or oregano. Spread them out evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and tender. Remove from oven and let cool slightly to handle.
- Make Cauliflower Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the roasted cauliflower, minced garlic, grated sharp cheddar, grated Parmesan, and sour cream or Greek yogurt. Mash gently with a fork to blend everything together, retaining some texture for a rustic feel.
- Toast Bread: Lightly toast the bread slices to give them some firmness and a nice texture that will hold the topping without becoming soggy. Arrange the toasted bread slices on a baking tray.
- Assemble Toasts: Spoon the cauliflower cheese mixture evenly over each slice of toasted bread, spreading gently to cover the surface.
- Bake Toasts: Return the assembled toasts to the oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden finish, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired, and serve warm to enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with a slight herbal freshness.
Notes
- Use sourdough or ciabatta bread for best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a creamier topping, substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or vice versa.
- Broiling time is optional; watch closely to avoid burning.
- Leftover toasts can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated later, but are best enjoyed fresh.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cauliflower mixture.
