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Truffled Cauliflower Gratin

Truffled Cauliflower Gratin is a luxurious and indulgent dish that elevates the humble cauliflower to a whole new level. This delectable side dish combines the earthy flavor of truffles with the creamy richness of a classic gratin, making it a perfect addition to any special meal or holiday feast.

Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

45 mins

Total Time:

1 hr

Servings:

Ingredients

7 tablespoons butter, divided

½ cup all-purpose flour

3 cups milk

5 ounces truffled pecorino cheese, grated, or more to taste

1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1 pinch cayenne pepper, or more to taste

1 pinch ground nutmeg

1 large head cauliflower, cored and separated into florets

2 tablespoons bread crumbs

2 tablespoons finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, or more to taste

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, or to taste

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Butter a 9x13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon butter.

Step 2

Melt remaining 6 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk flour into butter; cook and stir until raw flour taste cooks off, 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 3

Gradually whisk milk into flour mixture. Increase heat to medium-high; cook and stir until mixture thickens and comes to a simmer, 5 to 10 minutes. Stir truffled pecorino cheese, salt, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg into milk mixture until cheese sauce thickens.

Step 4

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; add cauliflower and cook until slightly tender, about 6 minutes. Drain and transfer cauliflower to the prepared baking dish.

Step 5

Spread cheese sauce evenly over cauliflower. Dust with bread crumbs and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Drizzle olive oil on top and sprinkle with a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Step 6

Bake in the preheated oven until browned and bubbling, about 30 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh chives.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

241

Calories

22g

Fat

17g

Carbs

12g

Protein

Complement

The star of this dish is the cauliflower, which is thinly sliced and layered in a baking dish with a luscious truffle-infused cream sauce. The addition of truffle oil and grated truffle cheese adds a decadent and aromatic touch, taking this gratin to a whole new level of sophistication. Once baked to golden perfection, the cauliflower becomes tender and infused with the luxurious flavors of truffle, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience. Whether served alongside a succulent roast or as a stand-alone vegetarian option, Truffled Cauliflower Gratin is sure to impress even the most discerning of palates. With its rich and comforting flavors, this dish is a show-stopping addition to any meal, guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on all who taste it.