Cauliflower Gratin - Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while maintaining flavor.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water + powdered milk

Almond milk is lower in calories and suitable for lactose intolerance.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier for heart health.

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: panko crumbs

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Crushed crackers are often less expensive and provide a similar texture.

Trim the cauliflower to make it nice and pretty, resulting in about 2 pounds of cauliflower.

Place the cauliflower in a steaming basket and steam for a few minutes to soften it slightly.

Butter the insides of an oven-safe dish lightly.

Set the steamer basket aside and let the cauliflower rest for a moment.

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Add flour to the melted butter and stir to combine, cooking for about 1 minute until slightly browned.

Measure out 2 cups of milk and gradually add half of it to the flour mixture, stirring continuously.

Once it thickens and clumps, add the remaining milk and continue stirring until well incorporated.

Season the mixture with black pepper and salt, then bring it to a simmer while stirring occasionally.

Add dried Italian seasonings, horseradish, and Dijon mustard to the sauce for flavor.

Stir in about 2 cups of cheese, using a combination of smoked gouda, Swiss, and parmesan, until melted and smooth.

Turn off the heat and set the cheese sauce aside.

Spread the steamed cauliflower in the buttered baking dish.

Add chopped celery, half a red bell pepper, and green onion tops to the cauliflower for added color and crunch.

Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring it is well covered.

Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the dish.

Bake in the oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes, keeping an eye on it as baking times may vary.

Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens