Cauliflower au Gratin

This Cauliflower au Gratin recipe is a creamy, cheesy side dish that combines tender roasted cauliflower with a rich, smooth cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Made with Gruyere or cheddar cheese and Parmesan, this dish is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side for roasted meats, holiday dinners, or a vegetarian main dish, this gratin is sure to impress. The roasted cauliflower adds depth of flavor while the creamy cheese sauce delivers indulgence in every bite. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this Cauliflower au Gratin will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups cauliflower florets (about 2 medium heads or 1 large, approximately 2 pounds)
• Salt (to taste)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (½ stick, divided)
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups hot milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheese (such as Gruyere or cheddar)
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish. Place the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender and slightly golden.
2. In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the flour to the saucepan and cook while stirring constantly until it just begins to brown, about 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Gradually pour in the hot milk, whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce. Stir in the salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook until the sauce begins to simmer.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese (Gruyere or cheddar) until it’s fully melted and combined.
6. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to the prepared baking dish and pour the cheese sauce evenly over it.
7. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese and the Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower and sauce.
8. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir together with the breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the cauliflower.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven, then return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden and the dish is bubbling.
10. Sprinkle the final layer of Parmesan cheese over the gratin and serve hot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cauliflower au Gratin is the ultimate comfort food, with tender roasted cauliflower smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. It’s the perfect side dish for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday meals. The combination of Gruyere or cheddar cheese and freshly grated Parmesan creates a deep, savory flavor that perfectly complements the roasted cauliflower. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect finishing touch to this indulgent yet vegetable-packed dish.

Tips

• Roasting the Cauliflower: Roasting the cauliflower before adding it to the gratin not only enhances its flavor but also helps remove excess moisture, ensuring the gratin doesn’t become too watery.
• Hot Milk: Using hot milk helps the sauce come together more smoothly and quickly without clumping.
• Consistent Stirring: Stir the flour and butter mixture constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Cheese: Swap Gruyere or cheddar for other cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or a blend of your favorites for a different flavor profile.
• Non-Dairy Version: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk), and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add cooked bacon bits, grilled chicken, or even crumbled sausage to the gratin.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before roasting to avoid excess moisture in the gratin.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gratin up to the point of baking, then refrigerate it for up to 1 day. When ready to serve, bake it in the preheated oven as instructed.

How can I make the breadcrumbs crunchier?
To make the breadcrumbs extra crispy, try toasting them in a pan with a little butter before sprinkling them on top of the gratin.

Serving and Suggestions

This Cauliflower au Gratin pairs perfectly with roasted meats, like chicken, pork, or steak. It also makes a wonderful side dish for a holiday dinner, complementing dishes like roasted turkey or ham. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it with a fresh green salad or alongside other vegetable-based sides like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts.