Cauliflower Gratin

This creamy cauliflower gratin is a comforting side dish featuring tender cauliflower florets baked in a rich, cheesy sauce and topped with a golden, bubbly crust. It’s perfect for holiday dinners or weeknight meals.

Ingredients

1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp paprika
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 4–5 minutes until just tender. Drain well and pat dry.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the cheddar, ¼ cup Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
Fold the cauliflower into the cheese sauce and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Mix the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan and sprinkle evenly over the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
Let the gratin rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Tips

Drain the cauliflower thoroughly to prevent a watery gratin.
Add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
For a crispier topping, broil for the last 2–3 minutes, watching carefully.
Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Roast chicken
Grilled steak
Baked ham
Pork chops
Roasted turkey
Fresh green salad

Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 280 calories per serving