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Cauliflower Gratin

A rich and creamy cauliflower gratin topped with a crispy layer, perfect as a side dish or a comforting vegetarian main meal.

  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 1 teaspoon pepper, divided
  • 4 tablespoons butter, cubed
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups 2% milk
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Chopped fresh thyme, optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the cauliflower florets on a rimmed baking sheet.
  3. Drizzle the olive oil over the cauliflower, and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
  4. Toss the cauliflower pieces to coat them evenly with the oil and seasoning.
  5. Bake the cauliflower in the oven for 8 minutes.
  6. After 8 minutes, take the baking sheet out and stir the cauliflower. Return it to the oven and bake for another 7-8 minutes, or until the cauliflower is crisp-tender and lightly browned.
  7. While the cauliflower is baking, make the cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  8. Stir in the flour until the mixture is smooth.
  9. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps.
  10. Bring the mixture to a simmer while continuously stirring. Keep cooking and stirring until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  11. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the Swiss cheese, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, ground mustard, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Mix until smooth.
  12. Pour 3/4 cup of the cheese sauce into a greased 2-quart baking dish.
  13. Top this sauce layer with the baked cauliflower.
  14. Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the cauliflower.
  15. Bake the dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until it is bubbly and lightly browned on top.
  16. If you desire, sprinkle some chopped fresh thyme on top for added flavor before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, try mixing in different vegetables or using various types of cheese.

  • Author: miguel-santiago
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Cauliflower Gratin, Vegetarian, Cheese Sauce, Side Dish