Creamy Cauliflower Gratin: A Comforting Classic with a Velvety Twist

When it comes to comforting side dishes, creamy casseroles and cheese-baked vegetables are always at the top of the list. This Creamy Cauliflower Gratin takes that beloved cozy pairing and turns it into a rich, indulgent, and irresistibly satisfying dish. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, a holiday gathering, or simply craving a warm, creamy treat, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and wholesome cauliflower flavor.

Unlike traditional potato gratin, this recipe uses cauliflower, making it a lighter and lower-carb option without sacrificing a hint of comfort. Each bite offers melt-in-your-mouth cauliflower coated in a luxurious, homemade cheese sauce featuring mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan. The trio of cheeses adds depth—creamy melt, rich sharpness, and savory nuttiness—while garlic brings the perfect aromatic touch. Finished in the oven until golden and bubbling, this gratin is everything creamy comfort food should be.

Serve it alongside roasted meats, holiday entrees, grilled chicken, or even as a vegetarian main course paired with a crisp green salad. It’s versatile enough to elevate a special occasion yet simple enough for everyday cooking. And the best part? It’s ready in just 35 minutes.

Creamy Cauliflower Gratin

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower and cook for 5–6 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly, and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking until the mixture thickens.
6. Add mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Arrange cauliflower florets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 300 kcal per serving | Servings: 6

Whether you serve it as a standout side or enjoy it spooned generously into a warm bowl on its own, this creamy cauliflower gratin is sure to satisfy every cheese lover at your table. Rich, velvety, and beautifully golden on top, it transforms a humble vegetable into a decadent treat—proving once again that comfort food can be incredibly elegant in its simplicity.

Try it once, and it just might become a new staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy, golden-topped bite!