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Creamy Baked Cauliflower Gratin

Creamy Baked Cauliflower Gratin: A Comforting Low-Carb Delight

Creamy Baked Cauliflower Gratin is a comforting low-carb dish that replaces traditional mac and cheese, providing rich flavors and textures.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Gratin
  • 1 head Cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter for béchamel sauce
  • 3 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 cups Milk or non-dairy milk for vegan option
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme or dried thyme
  • 1 tsp Fresh Black Pepper to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Grated Nutmeg
  • 1 cup Gruyère Cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 cup Fresh Bread Crumbs or panko for extra crunch
Optional Variations
  • Different Cheese Blends like cheddar
  • Fresh Herbs such as rosemary
  • Transform into Cream Soup by blending with reduced roux

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • 8 x 11 x 2-inch casserole dish
  • Whisk
  • spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into florets, then steam or boil for 5-6 minutes until firm-tender. Drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat & Prepare Dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish.
  3. Make Béchamel: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk, stirring until thickened.
  4. Season & Incorporate Cheeses: Stir in thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper, then fold in cheeses until melted.
  5. Assemble: Layer cheese sauce, then cauliflower, followed by remaining sauce.
  6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle breadcrumbs and remaining cheese on top.
  7. Bake: Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
  8. Cool & Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish can be made ahead of time. Assemble and refrigerate, adding breadcrumbs before baking for best results.

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