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:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3. 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:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should become slightly golden.
3. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the Dijon mustard, nutmeg (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
5. 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:

1. Place the cooked cauliflower florets in a lightly greased baking dish.
2. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower, making sure each piece is coated.
3. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Stir in the remaining Parmesan cheese.
4. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cauliflower and cheese sauce.

Bake the Cauliflower Au Gratin:

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
2. For an extra crispy top, you can broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Serve:

1. Remove the cauliflower au gratin from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
2. 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!