Creamy Cauliflower Gratin
This creamy cauliflower gratin is baked with a rich cheese sauce, buttery breadcrumbs, and tender cauliflower for the perfect cozy side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 29 minutes
- Total Time: 44 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
2½ to 3 lb cauliflower florets
4 tablespoons salted butter
3 tablespoons flour
3 shallots (or ¼ cup onion, finely chopped)
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups half-and-half
1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup Gruyere cheese, freshly grated
1 cup sharp white cheddar, freshly grated (plus more for topping)
¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil cauliflower in salted water for 5–6 minutes until just tender. Drain well.
Make the sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add shallots and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add flour and stir for 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half. Bring to a boil while whisking until thickened (about 1 minute). Remove from heat.
Add seasonings: Stir in salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg.
Add cheese: Gradually stir in Gruyere and white cheddar, reserving ½ cup of each for topping. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
Combine: Add cauliflower to the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
Top & bake: Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the cheese and drizzle with 2 tablespoons melted butter.
Bake for 23–28 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. Serve hot or at room temperature.
Notes
Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
Add a pinch of cayenne for subtle heat.
Can be made ahead and reheated just before serving.
Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/creamy-cauliflower-gratin/
