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Baked Cauliflower Au Gratin
Baked Cauliflower Au Gratin is a comforting, cheesy dish that transforms a simple cauliflower into a luxurious side or main dish. The creamy cheese sauce combined with the tender cauliflower and a golden breadcrumb topping makes this dish irresistible. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday meals.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer sauce)
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or cheddar for a sharper taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for the topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are just tender but still slightly firm. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should become slightly golden.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, nutmeg (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the shredded Gruyère cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
Assemble the Cauliflower Au Gratin:
- Place the cooked cauliflower florets in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower, making sure each piece is coated.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Stir in the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cauliflower and cheese sauce.
Bake the Cauliflower Au Gratin:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- For an extra crispy top, you can broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Serve:
- Remove the cauliflower au gratin from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish alongside roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course with a green salad.
- Pair with a glass of white wine or a light sparkling water for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
This Baked Cauliflower Au Gratin is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It’s a perfect way to turn cauliflower into a decadent and flavorful addition to any meal! Enjoy!
