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Cauliflower Gratin Recipe

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This creamy Cauliflower Gratin is a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring tender cauliflower florets smothered in a rich cheddar-mayo topping, finished with a golden Parmesan crust. It's an easy, baked dish perfect for family dinners or holiday meals.

Ingredients

Cauliflower

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized pieces

Gratin Topping

  • 1 cup finely grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 4 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Fresh ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the gratin.
  2. Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces by slicing through the stem and pulling apart the florets carefully to avoid too many broken pieces.
  3. Cook Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower pieces in a small pot, cover with water by a few inches, bring to a boil, and cook for about 10 minutes or until the cauliflower is just starting to become tender.
  4. Drain Cauliflower: Drain the cooked cauliflower thoroughly in a colander placed in the sink to remove excess water.
  5. Make Topping Mixture: While the cauliflower cooks, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir in the finely grated sharp cheddar cheese to create a creamy topping.
  6. Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a large glass or ceramic baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  7. Assemble Gratin: Spread the drained cauliflower evenly in the prepared baking dish. Using a rubber scraper, spread the cheddar topping mixture over the cauliflower. This topping covers the top rather than fully coating the cauliflower.
  8. Add Parmesan and Bake: Sprinkle finely grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the gratin is bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
  9. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the Cauliflower Gratin hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a more intense flavor, use sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese.
  • Drain the cauliflower very well to prevent the gratin from becoming watery.
  • You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg into the topping mixture for a warm spice note.
  • Serve alongside roasted meats or as a vegetarian main with a salad.