The Best Modern Cauliflower Gratin Recipe

Ready for a Cauliflower Gratin that’s Naturally Amazing?

Ever find yourself craving comfort food that’s both incredibly delicious and somewhat good for you? Then get excited because this Modern Cauliflower Gratin is about to become your new best friend. Forget everything you think you know about boring old cauliflower, because this dish is here to naturally spice up your dinner routine, bringing flavor and joy to your table with every bite!

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s naturally rich and creamy, without being overly heavy, making it perfect for any occasion.
• The combination of Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses creates a delightfully nutty and savory flavor profile.
• It’s super easy to make, requiring minimal prep and ingredients, ideal for weeknight dinners.
• This gratin is naturally flexible, so feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices.
• It’s a naturally impressive dish, great for bringing to potlucks or serving alongside a special meal.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This isn’t your grandma’s overly-creamy, heavy cauliflower gratin. We’re lightening things up while packing in even more flavor. The focus here is on letting the naturally delicious taste of the cauliflower shine through, while the thoughtfully chosen cheeses and seasonings create a harmonious and balanced dish. We’re using a touch of nutmeg for warmth, and fresh thyme for a lovely herbaceous note, which makes this naturally sophisticated.

Ingredient List

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons of butter, unsalted
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, freshly grated
• 1 teaspoon of salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 cup of Gruyere cheese, shredded – this cheese naturally melts beautifully.
• 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Steam or boil the cauliflower florets for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re slightly tender but still have a little bite. Drain well.
3. While the cauliflower is cooking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, creating a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Then, stir in half of each type of cheese (Gruyere and Parmesan) until melted.
6. Add the cooked cauliflower to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat.
7. Pour the cauliflower mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Sprinkle the remaining Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses over the top, and then sprinkle with the chopped fresh thyme.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Let it stand for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This naturally allows the gratin to set a little.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take your gratin to the next level? Here are some delicious variations:

• Garlic Lover’s Delight: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the butter when making the roux for a richer flavor.
• Smoked Paprika Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika over the gratin before baking for a hint of smokiness.
• Breadcrumb Topping: Mix 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle over the gratin before baking for a crispy top.
• Bacon Bliss: Crumble 4-5 slices of cooked bacon over the top before baking for an irresistible savory addition.

Expert Tips

• Make sure to drain the cauliflower thoroughly after steaming to avoid a watery gratin. Nobody likes a soggy gratin!
• Freshly grated nutmeg makes all the difference! It naturally elevates the dish to a whole new level.
• Don’t overcook the cauliflower before baking. You want it to be a little tender but not mushy, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Use good quality cheeses for the best flavor and melt. The Gruyere and Parmesan really do make this naturally special!
• Let your gratin rest after baking for the best texture. It naturally allows the cheeses to settle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute the Gruyere cheese? Absolutely! If you don’t have Gruyere, you can substitute with another good melting cheese like Fontina or Jarlsberg. The taste may vary slightly, but it will naturally still be delicious.
• Can I make this ahead of time? You can assemble the gratin and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few minutes to the baking time to account for it being cold. It’s a naturally great dish to prep beforehand.
• How should I store leftover gratin? Store leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
• Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just be sure to thaw it thoroughly and drain any excess water before using. The texture might be slightly softer, but it’s naturally still a great option.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish, and make sure to adjust the baking time if necessary. It is naturally a perfect crowd-pleaser.

Variations and Customization Options

Feel free to put your own spin on this recipe! Here are a few more ideas to naturally make it yours:

• Add Some Heat: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Go Vegetarian: Use a vegetable broth instead of milk for a vegan version. Be sure to use vegan cheese.
• Spice it Up: Add different herbs like rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile.
• Include Veggies: Add other vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms to the gratin.
• Creamy: Substitute half of the milk with half and half for extra richness.

Serving Suggestions

This Modern Cauliflower Gratin is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, steak, or fish. It also makes a naturally amazing vegetarian main course, particularly when paired with a simple salad or some crusty bread. The rich and creamy texture makes it a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week, or bring it as an elegant dish for a special gathering!

Ready to Bake?

This Modern Cauliflower Gratin is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s naturally comforting, surprisingly easy to make, and packed with flavor. So, give this dish a try and you will be naturally surprised how amazing cauliflower can be! Snap a photo of your creation and share it with us! And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for recipes and cooking tips!