This Cauliflower Au Gratin is a delicious and cheesy twist on a classic comfort food. Tender cauliflower florets are bathed in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, then topped with a buttery breadcrumb topping and baked to golden perfection. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a holiday side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Cheesy: This dish is packed with cheesy goodness, thanks to a creamy sauce made with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Versatile: Serve it as a side dish for your holiday table, a potluck, or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cauliflower Au Gratin:

Cauliflower: Cut into florets and cleaned, for a healthy and flavorful base.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce.
Milk: Hot, creates a creamy base for the sauce.
Salt, black pepper, and nutmeg: For seasoning the sauce.
Gruyère cheese: Grated, adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
Parmesan cheese: Grated, adds a salty and nutty flavor.
Butter: Melted, for the breadcrumb topping.
Panko breadcrumbs: Adds a crispy and crunchy topping.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Cauliflower Au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the cauliflower florets in a large pot of salted boiling water for about 5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Drain the cauliflower and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 2 minutes to cook the roux. Gradually pour in the hot milk while whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth. Bring the sauce to a boil, whisking constantly, and cook for another minute, or until thickened. Remove from the heat and stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, 1 cup of the grated Gruyère cheese, and ½ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Gratin

In a 9×13 inch casserole dish, spread about ⅓ of the cheese sauce evenly over the bottom. Arrange the cooked cauliflower florets in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring all the florets are coated. Sprinkle the remaining grated Gruyère and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 4: Make the Breadcrumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and Panko breadcrumbs. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the cauliflower.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use high-quality cheese: The better the quality of your cheese, the better the flavor of the gratin.
Don’t overcook the cauliflower: Cook the cauliflower just until tender-crisp to prevent it from becoming mushy in the oven.
Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.

How to Serve Cauliflower Au Gratin

Side Dish: This Cauliflower Au Gratin is a perfect side dish for roasted chicken, grilled meats, fish, or your favorite protein.
Holiday Side: It’s a delicious and festive addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas table.
Vegetarian Main Course: Serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating:

To reheat, bring the leftovers to room temperature, then bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, such as almond flour, buckwheat flour, or amaranth flour, to make the sauce. Also, make sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.

Can I add other vegetables to this gratin?

Yes, you can add other vegetables, such as broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, or diced bell peppers.

How can I make this dish vegan?

You can use vegan butter and cheese substitutes, and plant-based milk.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Cauliflower Au Gratin that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!