Name: Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 1 large head cauliflower (cut into florets); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon butter, melted

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If you’re looking to add a sophisticated, show-stopping side dish to your table, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a homemade Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe. With its creamy cheese sauce, golden crust, and irresistible aroma, this dish transforms humble cauliflower into something gloriously decadent. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or an upgrade to any weeknight meal, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe relies on a handful of everyday staples, each playing an essential role in flavor, texture, and that signature golden appearance. Here’s what you’ll need and why you won’t want to skip a thing:

Cauliflower: This is your hearty, nutritious base, soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce.
Butter: Brings rich flavor and is the secret to creating a silky-smooth roux for the cheese sauce.
All-purpose flour: Works with the butter to thicken your sauce for that perfect creamy consistency.
Whole milk: Adds body and creaminess, making the cheese sauce wonderfully velvety.
Sharp cheddar cheese: The backbone of flavor — sharp cheddar gives that signature tangy, melty quality.
Parmesan cheese: A salty, nutty punch that deepens the overall taste profile and creates a stunning top layer.
Garlic powder: Infuses subtle savory notes throughout without overpowering the dish.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing every ingredient’s flavor.
Breadcrumbs (optional): Offer a delightful crunch, taking your Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe to the next level with a golden crown.
Butter (for topping): Mixed with breadcrumbs to ensure a perfectly crisp, mouthwatering finish.

How to Make Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by heating your oven to 375°F. To avoid anything sticking (and for stress-free cleanup), lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or nonstick spray. This sets the stage for a beautifully layered bake that comes out easily and looks wonderful at the table.

Step 2: Cook the Cauliflower

Take your fresh cauliflower florets and give them a quick steam or boil for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’re aiming for them to be just tender but still holding their shape. This gives your Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe the ideal bite — never mushy, always satisfying. Drain them well to avoid a watery sauce later.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter until bubbly, then whisk in the flour. Cook this roux mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden (not brown!), which takes away any raw flour flavor. Gradually whisk in the milk and keep stirring until the sauce thickens and is luscious and smooth — about 3 to 5 minutes. To finish, stir in both cheeses, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Watch how quickly the sauce becomes glossy and irresistible!

Step 4: Combine Cauliflower and Cheese Sauce

Gently fold the steamed cauliflower florets into your hot cheese sauce. Stir until every piece is coated in creamy goodness, making sure the cauliflower isn’t crushed — you want nice, distinct pieces in every serving. Pour the whole mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Top and Bake

If you love a crispy, golden crust, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle them evenly over the top of your casserole. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbling, golden, and your kitchen is filled with the heavenly aroma of bubbling cheese.

Step 6: Rest, Serve, and Savor

As difficult as it might be, let your Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe rest for about 5 minutes out of the oven. This lets the sauce set just enough for those perfect, creamy scoops. Serve warm and enjoy the well-earned “oohs” and “aahs”!

How to Serve Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe

Garnishes

For a little flair and freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top just before serving your Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe. A pinch of smoked paprika also adds a pop of color and a touch of warmth. Don’t forget a final light dusting of Parmesan for that extra savory finish.

Side Dishes

This creamy bake is perfectly at home alongside a juicy roast chicken or steak, but it’s just as satisfying as the star of a vegetarian spread. Pair with a crisp green salad, sautéed green beans, or roasted carrots for a wholesome meal that’s both elegant and comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking your Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe in individual ramekins for an intimate, restaurant-style feel. For potlucks, double the recipe and serve in a large casserole dish for easy scooping. You can even nestle the gratin among a medley of roasted vegetables for a beautiful, bountiful platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Your Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe will stay creamy and delicious for up to 4 days, making it just as tempting the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, this dish freezes surprisingly well. Cool the gratin completely, then wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To preserve that creamy, gooey goodness, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven (covered with foil) for about 15 minutes, or until hot and bubbling. If microwaving, use medium power and stir halfway through to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I make Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe gluten free?

Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour for cornstarch (use about half the amount) and choose gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them altogether. The results are just as creamy and satisfying.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, frozen cauliflower works well in this recipe. Simply cook it according to the package instructions, drain thoroughly, and proceed as you would with fresh. Just be extra diligent about draining to avoid excess moisture.

What cheese can I substitute for cheddar?

Gruyère, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses like fontina or gouda are delicious swaps. Each brings its own character and richness to your Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.

Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the entire gratin (including breadcrumbs if using), then cover and refrigerate up to a day in advance. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a few minutes to the baking time if coming straight from the fridge.

What’s the best way to avoid a watery casserole?

Make sure your cauliflower is well-drained after boiling or steaming, and don’t skip letting the finished dish rest before serving. This gives the sauce time to thicken up and creates those beautifully creamy layers that make the best Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a cozy, cheesy side that never fails to impress, this Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe is your new go-to. It’s the kind of dish that brings both comfort and a little wow-factor to any meal. Give it a try, and you just might find it becomes a staple on your table, too!

Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this Cauliflower au Gratin recipe. Perfectly steamed cauliflower coated in a luscious cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust. A delicious side dish that will elevate any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 large head cauliflower (cut into florets)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

For Topping:

1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon butter, melted

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Prepare Cauliflower: Steam or boil cauliflower florets until tender; then, drain and set aside.
Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, then slowly add milk. Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Mix cauliflower with cheese sauce and transfer to the baking dish.
Add Topping: Optionally, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it rest before serving.