Creamy Cauliflower Gratin is the epitome of comfort food with an elegant twist. This dish features tender cauliflower florets enveloped in a rich, cheesy béchamel sauce, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, it caters to vegetarians and those seeking a low-carb alternative. With a topping of golden cheese, this creamy cauliflower gratin will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cauliflower Gratin

There are countless reasons to adore this creamy cauliflower gratin. First, it’s a fantastic vegetarian option that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Second, it serves as a healthy alternative to traditional gratins while still delivering that creamy, comforting taste. Third, it’s versatile—perfect as a side dish for holiday gatherings or a weeknight family dinner. Additionally, this dish is low-carb, making it suitable for various diets. With the combination of cheddar and Parmesan, this cheesy cauliflower gratin recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Lastly, it’s simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy this delicious cheesy cauliflower dish without stress.

Ingredients for Creamy Cauliflower Gratin

Gather these items:

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
4 tablespoons butter
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of nutmeg for added depth

How to Make Creamy Cauliflower Gratin Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Boil or steam florets for 5–6 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well and pat dry.
Step 3: In a saucepan, melt butter and cook onions for 3–4 minutes. Stir in flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened, about 5–6 minutes. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in cheddar and half the Parmesan until melted.
Step 4: Spread cauliflower in prepared dish. Pour cheese sauce evenly over top and sprinkle remaining Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Let cool slightly before serving.

Irresistibly Creamy Cauliflower Gratin Recipe for Comfort - Creamy Cauliflower Gratin - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Cauliflower Gratin

Keep these in mind:

Ideal for holidays, Sunday dinners, or cozy weeknights.
Adjust seasoning according to taste.
Can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
For a crunchy top, consider adding breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter.
Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère for added flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Cauliflower Gratin

This creamy cauliflower dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can be served as a standalone vegetarian main. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It also makes an excellent accompaniment to a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Cauliflower Gratin

To store, place leftover creamy cauliflower gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This makes it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Cauliflower Gratin

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Cauliflower Gratin?

To achieve the best creamy cauliflower gratin, ensure your cheese sauce is thick before adding the cauliflower. This prevents sogginess and enhances the overall texture.

Can I make Creamy Cauliflower Gratin ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this creamy cauliflower bake ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Cauliflower Gratin?

To avoid common pitfalls, don’t overcook the cauliflower when pre-cooking it. It should be tender but not mushy, ensuring the final dish maintains its structure.

Variations of Creamy Cauliflower Gratin You Can Try

For a twist on this classic, consider adding different vegetables like broccoli or carrots for a creamy vegetable gratin idea. You can also make it a low-carb cauliflower gratin recipe by including more greens and using a lower-fat cheese. Another option is to create a version with breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

For more delicious recipes, check out Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil or Mediterranean Chickpea Salad. If you’re interested in the health benefits of cauliflower, you can read more here.

Irresistibly Creamy Cauliflower Gratin Recipe for Comfort

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This creamy cauliflower gratin is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Featuring tender cauliflower florets baked in a rich, cheesy béchamel sauce, it’s a vegetarian-friendly dish that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
4 tablespoons butter
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of nutmeg for added depth

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Instructions

Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Boil or steam florets for 5–6 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well and pat dry.
In a saucepan, melt butter and cook onions for 3–4 minutes. Stir in flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened, about 5–6 minutes. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in cheddar and half the Parmesan until melted.
Spread cauliflower in prepared dish. Pour cheese sauce evenly over top and sprinkle remaining Parmesan.
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Let cool slightly before serving.