# Needed ingredients:
→ Cauliflower Base
01 - 1 large whole cauliflower (about 2.2 lbs), leaves and stem trimmed but intact
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - ½ teaspoon salt
04 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
→ Cheese Filling
05 - 5.3 oz cream cheese, softened
06 - 3.5 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
07 - 1.8 oz grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
09 - 1 garlic clove, minced
10 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
12 - 1 tablespoon milk
→ Topping
13 - 1.8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
14 - 2 tablespoons gluten-free breadcrumbs
15 - 1 tablespoon melted butter
# How to make it:
01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
02 - Remove outer leaves and carefully trim the base so the cauliflower sits flat while keeping florets intact.
03 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Submerge the cauliflower head and cook for 8–10 minutes until just tender. Drain thoroughly and let cool slightly.
04 - In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, chives, garlic, smoked paprika, nutmeg, and milk until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
05 - Place the cooled cauliflower on the prepared tray. Using a small knife, carefully make deep cuts into the base and between florets to create space for the filling.
06 - Gently stuff the cheese mixture into the crevices and center of the cauliflower, pressing it in with a spoon or your fingers to ensure even distribution.
07 - Brush the outside of the cauliflower with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
08 - Mix cheddar cheese with gluten-free breadcrumbs and melted butter until combined, then sprinkle evenly over the entire cauliflower.
09 - Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown, bubbling, and tender when pierced with a knife.
10 - Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve warm as a main course or elegant side dish.
