Amazing Baked Cauliflower au Gratin 🥦🧀

This scrumptious Baked Cauliflower au Gratin is a delightful twist on the classic dish, perfect for any occasion! Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crunchy, golden layer, it transforms humble cauliflower into a star dish that will have everyone asking for seconds! Pair it with a fresh salad or serve it as a side to your favorite main course for a truly satisfying meal. 🍽️✨

Ingredients

For the main dish

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup of Gruyère cheese, grated
• 1 cup of milk
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional)

For the topping

• 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Steam the cauliflower: In a large pot, steam the cauliflower florets for about 5-7 minutes, until just tender but still firm. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the cheese sauce:

   • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
   • Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
   • Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking to combine. Continue to cook, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
   • Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
   • Remove from heat and add the grated cheddar and Gruyère cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

4. Combine cauliflower and cheese sauce: Place the steamed cauliflower florets in a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower, making sure each piece is well coated.

5. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter together until combined.

6. Top it off: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese-covered cauliflower.

7. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

8. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

🥄 For an extra flavor kick, consider adding crumbled bacon or chopped green onions to the cheese sauce or topping for a heartier version!

Variations

• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for the topping. 🌾🚫
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a spicy twist! 🔥
• Creamier: Increase the heavy cream to 1 cup for a rich and creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the cauliflower. 😍
• Herbaceous: Mix in some fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the cheese sauce for a fragrant flavor boost. 🌱

Enjoy this Amazing Baked Cauliflower au Gratin as a delectable vegetarian delight that everyone will love! 🎉🥂