Cauliflower Au Gratin Recipe

Cauliflower Au Gratin is a classic French dish that brings out the best in this versatile vegetable. This recipe combines tender cauliflower florets with a rich, cheesy béchamel sauce, all baked to perfection with a golden breadcrumb topping. It's a comforting and elegant side dish that's perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner. With its creamy texture and savory flavor, Cauliflower Au Gratin is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite at your table.

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Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain well and transfer to the prepared baking dish.

Step 3:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Step 4:
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the Gruyère cheese, ¼ cup of the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5:
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower florets in the baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs and the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 6:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.

Cooking Note:

For an even richer flavor, you can use half-and-half or cream instead of whole milk. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Cheddar or Fontina for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Serving Suggestions:

Cauliflower Au Gratin makes a delightful side dish for roasted meats, poultry, or fish. It's also a wonderful addition to a vegetarian meal when served alongside a hearty salad or other vegetable dishes. Pair it with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay to complement its creamy, cheesy goodness.

Tips:

1. Blanching the Cauliflower: Ensure the cauliflower is tender but not mushy after boiling. This will help it maintain its texture during baking.
2. Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish up to the baking step a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

50 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 10g
• Sodium: 400mg

Conclusion

Cauliflower Au Gratin is a timeless and versatile dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. The combination of tender cauliflower, creamy béchamel sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping creates a deliciously satisfying side dish. Whether you're serving it at a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the comforting flavors and delightful textures of this classic French dish!

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