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

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If ever there was a dish that could woo a crowd and steal the show on a dinner table, the Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe is it! Creamy, luxurious cheese sauce wraps around tender cauliflower, coming together in a bubbling, golden casserole that is as comforting as it is impressive. With classic French inspiration and approachable, wholesome ingredients, this gratin is the kind of recipe you’ll keep returning to—whether for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight treat.

Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of kitchen staples, you can create incredible flavors and rich textures. The ingredients in this Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe are carefully chosen—each one brings something essential, from creaminess to that irresistible golden crust.

Cauliflower: The base of this dish, with a mild flavor that soaks up every bit of the cheesy sauce.
Butter: Essential for forming a smooth, rich roux that sets the tone for the sauce.
All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to just the right consistency, so it hugs every floret.
Whole milk: Adds creamy body and a subtle sweetness.
Garlic powder: Boosts the flavor, giving a gentle savory warmth in each bite.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch deepens the flavor and gives the sauce extra dimension.
Salt: Brings all the flavors to life and ensures the dish is never bland.
Black pepper: Adds a little kick without overpowering the delicate balance.
Shredded Gruyère cheese: The classic choice for gratin, lending an unsurpassed nutty meltiness.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds depth and a tangy contrast to the Gruyère.
Grated Parmesan cheese: For a richly flavored topping that crisps under the broiler.
Breadcrumbs (optional): Sprinkled over the top, they bake up irresistibly golden and crunchy.
Chopped parsley (optional): Brings freshness and a pop of color right before serving.

How to Make Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by setting your oven to 375°F, giving it plenty of time to get nice and hot. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish—this ensures that nothing sticks and you’ll get beautiful, clean slices for serving.

Step 2: Blanch the Cauliflower

Bring a large pot of salted water to a brisk boil, then add your cauliflower florets. Cook them for just 5 minutes, until they’re crisp-tender; you want them to hold their shape in the oven. Drain thoroughly and set aside, letting any lingering moisture escape.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. This is your roux—it gives the sauce body and silkiness. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking, watching as the mixture becomes thick and creamy in just a few minutes. Once thickened, stir in the garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Toss in the Gruyère and cheddar cheeses, stirring until everything’s perfectly melty and smooth. This moment is pure magic!

Step 4: Assemble the Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe

Scatter the drained cauliflower florets evenly in your prepared baking dish. Pour that luscious cheese sauce all over, making sure every piece gets coated. Scatter the Parmesan cheese over the top, and if you’re partial to a little crunch, sprinkle on the breadcrumbs too.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Transfer the whole dish to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling vigorously at the edges and the top is golden brown. That savory aroma filling your kitchen is almost impossible to resist!

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Just before serving, shower your gratin with chopped parsley. It adds a beautiful touch of color and a hint of freshness that brings the whole dish together.

How to Serve Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a final flourish of freshly chopped parsley or even a light dusting of extra Parmesan right before bringing the dish to the table. If you enjoy a bit of zest, add a curl of lemon peel or a few chives for bright flavor and visual pop.

Side Dishes

This Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted meats, like herby chicken or a juicy beef roast. It’s also a dreamy addition to a vegetarian spread: try it alongside a crisp salad, green beans, or a medley of roasted root vegetables for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner, portion the gratin into individual ramekins—perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party. Or, serve family-style, straight from the baking dish, with big, generous spoonfuls. For the holidays, arrange the gratin as part of a colorful vegetable platter with steamed greens and glazed carrots.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container to keep everything fresh and flavorful.

Freezing

For longer storage, the gratin can be frozen after baking. Cool it completely, then wrap securely in both plastic wrap and foil. Label with the date, and it will keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To revive that bubbly texture, reheat the gratin in a 350°F oven until warmed through and the cheese is bubbling. For individual servings, a quick turn in the microwave works too, but finish under the broiler for a minute or two to restore that golden top.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh for this Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it very dry to avoid excess moisture in the finished dish. The texture may be a bit softer than with fresh, but the flavor will still shine.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour, and be sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you choose to include them. The rest of the recipe remains the same and every bite will be just as creamy and satisfying.

What cheeses can I substitute for Gruyère and cheddar?

If you don’t have Gruyère, Swiss, Emmental, or even mozzarella make great alternatives. For the cheddar, go with any sharp cheese you like—just keep the amounts the same for that gooey melt.

Can I make Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe ahead of time?

You sure can! Assemble the dish right up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. When you’re ready to eat, bake as directed, adding a few minutes if your dish is going into the oven cold.

How can I lighten up this recipe?

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat milk and cheese or skip the breadcrumbs altogether. The sauce will still be delightfully creamy, and you’ll save a few calories while keeping all the flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both sophisticated and soul-soothing, this Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe should be at the top of your list. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to—give it a try and enjoy every golden, bubbly forkful!

Cauliflower au Gratin Recipe

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4.6 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Cauliflower au Gratin – a French-inspired side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Tender cauliflower florets smothered in a rich cheese sauce and baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is sure to be a hit at your table.

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
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cheese Mixture:

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Toppings:

1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon chopped parsley

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 2-quart baking dish. Boil cauliflower until tender, then drain.
Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk. Season with garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in Gruyère and cheddar until smooth.
Assemble and Bake: Place cauliflower in the baking dish, pour cheese sauce over it, and add Parmesan and breadcrumbs (if using). Bake until golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with parsley before serving.