This Cheesy Cauliflower Mushroom Steaks recipe transforms simple ingredients into a seriously yummy, vegetarian-friendly dish that’s not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. The combination of roasted cauliflower, sautéed mushrooms, and melted mozzarella cheese makes this dish a delightful alternative to traditional steaks.
Ingredients:
- 1 large cauliflower head, sliced into 3/4 inch thick steaks
- Ghee or avocado oil cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil, or olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dry Italian seasonings
- 8 oz fresh button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme, to garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is ideal for achieving a golden, caramelized crust on the cauliflower.
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Slice the cauliflower head into 3/4 inch thick steaks. It’s okay if some florets fall apart; you can roast these alongside the steaks.
- Spray a baking sheet with ghee or avocado oil cooking spray. Arrange the cauliflower steaks in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Season and Roast:
- Brush the cauliflower steaks with avocado or olive oil. Sprinkle dry Italian seasonings, salt, and pepper evenly over the steaks.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cauliflower begins to turn golden and tender.
- Cook the Mushrooms:
- While the cauliflower is roasting, heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the mushrooms are golden and the garlic is fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Remove the cauliflower steaks from the oven after the initial roasting. Top each steak with an even layer of sautéed mushrooms and then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme. Serve immediately while warm and cheesy.
Tips:
- Cauliflower Steaks: When cutting the cauliflower into steaks, try to keep the core intact to hold the steaks together.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or a blend for varied flavors.
- Additional Toppings: For an extra layer of complexity, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dash of paprika before the final bake.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Cauliflower Mushroom Steaks are a fantastic way to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. This dish is perfect for those looking for a hearty, low-carb alternative to traditional steaks, and its elegant presentation makes it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures of this easy-to-make, vegetarian delight!