Description
This creamy cauliflower gratin is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Featuring tender cauliflower florets baked in a rich, cheesy béchamel sauce, it’s a vegetarian-friendly dish that’s both satisfying and sophisticated—ideal for holidays, Sunday dinners, or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg for added depth
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Cauliflower: Boil or steam florets for 5–6 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well and pat dry.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter and cook onions for 3–4 minutes. Stir in flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened, about 5–6 minutes. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in cheddar and half the Parmesan until melted.
- Assemble: Spread cauliflower in prepared dish. Pour cheese sauce evenly over top and sprinkle remaining Parmesan.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Dry cauliflower thoroughly after cooking to avoid a watery sauce.
- Use sharp cheese for maximum flavor and a creamy melt.
- Add a breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter for extra crunch.
- Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and bake before serving.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F until warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Cauliflower Gratin, Creamy Cauliflower Gratin, Cheesy Baked Cauliflower, Vegetarian Side Dish, French Gratin, Cauliflower Casserole, Low Carb Gratin, Holiday Side Dish, Comfort Food, Easy Cauliflower Recipe