why make this recipe
Cheesy Crispy Cauliflower Gratin is a delicious and comforting dish. It combines the goodness of cauliflower with rich and creamy cheese, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. This recipe is not only tasty but also a great way to encourage kids and adults alike to eat more vegetables. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be loved by everyone.
how to make Cheesy Crispy Cauliflower Gratin
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyere)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the cauliflower florets for about 5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the shredded cheese until well mixed.
- Add the blanched cauliflower to the cheese mixture and gently toss to coat.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cauliflower and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
how to serve Cheesy Crispy Cauliflower Gratin
Serve Cheesy Crispy Cauliflower Gratin hot from the oven as a side dish. It pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or fish. You can also enjoy it as a main dish, especially for vegetarian meals.
how to store Cheesy Crispy Cauliflower Gratin
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Then, cover it well with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven until warmed through.
tips to make Cheesy Crispy Cauliflower Gratin
- Make sure to not overcook the cauliflower when blanching. It should be slightly tender but still firm.
- Experiment with different cheese blends to find your favorite flavor combination.
- For a little kick, add some red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture.
variation
You can add cooked bacon or ham to the cauliflower mixture for a heartier dish. Another variation is to include other vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw it and drain excess moisture before using it in the recipe.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when you are ready to serve.
3. How can I make this recipe lighter?
You can use low-fat cheese and replace heavy cream with a lighter alternative, like milk or a dairy-free cream.
