Hi! I’m Kate, the face behind KateFi.com—a blog all about making life easier and more affordable.

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Velvety Cauliflower and White Cheddar Gratin

We all want to eat well without breaking the bank, right? Especially if you’re a busy mom juggling a thousand things at once or a student living on ramen and dreams. Ever wonder if you can eat gourmet on a broke budget? Same. Here’s my hack: No oven needed! This Velvety Cauliflower and White Cheddar Gratin is a creamy, cheesy delight that feels like a splurge but helps you save both time and money.

Why You’ll Love It

• No oven needed!
• Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
• Zero fancy kitchen gear needed
• Leftovers are even better the next day
• Easy to meal prep or double for later

Ingredients

• 1 medium cauliflower head, cut into florets
• 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Add cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a roux.
3. Gradually add the milk while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce starts to thicken.
4. Reduce the heat and add the shredded white cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
5. Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
6. Add the cooked cauliflower back into the pot and gently mix until all florets are coated in the cheesy sauce.
7. Transfer to serving dishes and garnish with chopped chives if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Keeping It Real

• Even if you’re tight on cash or time, you can whip up something that feels like a luxury meal with this recipe.
• Trying out side gigs while enjoying your cheesy cauliflower makes multitasking rewarding.
• It’s not just about dinner; it’s about finding joy in everyday tasks—even if you’re juggling a side hustle or two.