Cauliflower au Gratin

Cauliflower au Gratin is a delicious and comforting side dish that brings out the best of this versatile and nutritious vegetable. This dish takes cauliflower to a whole new level by combining it with a creamy, cheesy sauce and a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping. The result is a rich and indulgent dish that is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting accompaniment to a weeknight meal.

Cauliflower au Gratin
Advertisement

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

40 mins

Total Time:

50 mins

Servings:

6

Ingredients

Cauliflower au Gratin
1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, chopped
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
6 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
1 pinch ground black pepper
1 pinch ground nutmeg, or to taste

Directions

Cauliflower au Gratin

Step 1

Place a steamer insert into a saucepan and fill with water to just below the bottom of the steamer. Bring water to a boil. Add cauliflower, cover, and steam until tender, 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.

Step 3

Heat butter in a small saucepan over low heat; cook and stir onion in the melted butter until softened, about 5 minutes. Add flour; cook, stirring constantly, until mixture just starts to brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Gradually pour milk into mixture, whisking into a smooth sauce. Cook until just simmering.

Step 4

Remove sauce from heat and stir in half the Cheddar cheese until melted; sprinkle with pepper and nutmeg.

Step 5

Place steamed cauliflower in the prepared baking dish; pour cheese sauce over cauliflower. Sprinkle with remaining Cheddar cheese.

Step 6

Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is melted and browned, about 25 minutes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

208

Calories

14g

Fat

11g

Carbs

11g

Protein

Complement

The cauliflower is first blanched to retain its firm texture and then coated with a luscious cheese sauce made with milk, flour, and a blend of sharp and creamy cheeses. The dish is then baked to perfection, allowing the cauliflower to soak up the flavors of the sauce and develop a golden-brown crust on top. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds an extra layer of texture and flavor, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Cauliflower au Gratin is a great way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable in a new and exciting way, and it is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.