1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Wash the cauliflower florets and pat them dry. Toss the florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
3. Cook the Cauliflower:
- Place the seasoned cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the florets are tender and starting to brown. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- While the cauliflower is cooking, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Reduce the heat to low.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, mustard powder, garlic powder, and nutmeg to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Combine Cauliflower and Cheese Sauce:
- Once the cauliflower is cooked, transfer the florets to a baking dish that fits in your air fryer. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cooked cauliflower.
- If using, sprinkle the breadcrumbs or panko over the top for extra crunch.
6. Air Fry to Golden Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in the air fryer. Cook at 380°F (190°C) for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve:
- Carefully remove the baking dish from the air fryer. Let it cool for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Baking Dish: Ensure your baking dish is both air fryer-safe and fits comfortably inside the basket or rack.
- Cheese Sauce Thickness: If the cheese sauce seems too thick, you can thin it with a little more cream or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the cheese sauce according to your taste preferences.
Cauliflower Cheese made in the air fryer is a quick, easy, and delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, offering a comforting and cheesy delight with minimal fuss. Enjoy!