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Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Cauliflower Bake

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A cozy, creamy, and cheesy cauliflower bake that is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for comforting dinners without heavy carbs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 pounds / 900 grams), cut into bite-sized florets
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 60 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free flour)
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (120 ml)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ cups sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 170 grams)
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (about 110 grams)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about 50 grams)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Fresh thyme (optional), a few sprigs or 1 teaspoon dried

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, then steam or boil for about 5 minutes until just tender but still firm. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Slowly add 2 cups whole milk and ½ cup heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let simmer gently until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Stir in minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and fold in shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Add a splash more milk if sauce is too thick.
  6. Gently mix the cauliflower florets into the cheese sauce, ensuring they are well coated but not broken up. Transfer mixture into a prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  7. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, followed by a light dusting of smoked paprika. Add thyme if using.
  8. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  9. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce.

Notes

Do not overcook the cauliflower to avoid mushiness. Use freshly grated cheese for best melt and flavor. Whisk sauce constantly to prevent lumps. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly. Let rest before serving for easier slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower bake, au gratin, cheesy cauliflower, comfort food, easy side dish, creamy cauliflower, gluten-free option, low-carb, vegetarian

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/creamy-cheesy-au-gratin-cauliflower-bake-easy-comfort-recipe/