Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin

Name: Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love nothing more than a warm, creamy dish that feels like a hug on a plate, and this Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin delivers just that! It's become my go-to comfort food for family gatherings. The preparation requires only a few ingredients, yet the flavors are rich and satisfying. The method of roasting the cauliflower first enhances its natural sweetness, while the cheesy sauce adds a beautiful creaminess that's hard to resist. It’s an indulgent yet simple recipe that guarantees happy faces around the table.

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:18:38.359Z

Throughout my kitchen adventures, I've tried countless ways to elevate vegetables, but there’s something particularly exquisite about roasting cauliflower. It caramelizes beautifully, and when paired with a creamy cheese sauce, it's transformative. This gratin is not only delicious but it feels like a special occasion dish that can be made any day of the week.

The secret to the perfect texture lies in the roasting process. By allowing the cauliflower to cook until golden before smothering it in the sauce, you achieve a delightful contrast between the tender florets and the creamy topping. I always make extra sauce because it’s simply irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Caramelized cauliflower enhances the dish's depth of flavor
Creamy and cheesy sauce brings a luxurious touch
Easily adaptable with your favorite cheeses and spices

      

The Importance of Roasting

Roasting the cauliflower before combining it with the cheese sauce is key to this gratin's success. When you roast at 400°F (200°C), the high heat caramelizes the edges, bringing out a depth of flavor that simply boiling or steaming can’t achieve. Aim for a golden-brown exterior and a tender interior after about 25 minutes in the oven. This process not only intensifies the natural sweetness but also contributes to a delightful contrast in textures.

This technique elevates the dish beyond ordinary comfort food. As the cauliflower roasts, it develops a slightly nutty flavor, which pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce. Be sure to turn the florets halfway to ensure even cooking. If you're looking for a more robust flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin to the olive oil before tossing the cauliflower.

The Role of Cheese

The choice of cheese in your gratin plays a crucial role in achieving that rich, creamy texture. Gruyère is perfect due to its meltability and nutty flavor, while Parmesan adds a sharp contrast that enhances overall taste. If you wish to mix things up, feel free to substitute with other cheeses like Fontina or a mild cheddar, but be aware that this may alter the dish's primary flavor profile. Adjust quantities as needed, but maintain at least one high-melt cheese for the best results.

When preparing the cheese sauce, keep the heat medium to prevent the cream from scorching. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely into a glossy, homogenous mixture. If the sauce seems too thick after you've combined everything, a splash of milk or broth can help loosen it to the desired consistency. Remember, a well-emulsified sauce prevents a grainy texture, ensuring that each bite is smooth and creamy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped for an easier cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious gratin:

Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Spread the florets out on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes or until golden brown, turning halfway through.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in the Gruyère and Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and nutmeg until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Bake

In a baking dish, layer the roasted cauliflower and pour the cheese sauce over it. Make sure all the florets are well-coated. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Serve warm and enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this gratin by adding cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or even layer in some spinach for additional flavor and nutrition.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about this Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin is that it can be prepared in advance. You can roast the cauliflower a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to make the gratin, prepare the cheese sauce, layer the cooked cauliflower, and bake as directed. This not only saves time on the day of an event but also allows the flavors to meld.

If you're considering making it even further ahead, you can assemble the entire dish and freeze it unbaked. Just ensure you wrap it well in plastic and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to serve, transfer it from the freezer to the fridge the day before to thaw, then bake it directly from there, adjusting the baking time if it’s still a bit cool in the center.

Serving Suggestions

This gratin pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, which balances the richness of the dish. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside roasted meats or a hearty stew. The creamy texture and earthy flavor of the gratin make it a flexible side dish that enhances various main courses.

If you're embracing a vegetarian menu, adding a few sautéed mushrooms or spinach can give the gratin an extra layer of flavor and nutrients. Just be sure to sauté them separately to avoid excess moisture that could make the dish watery. A sprinkle of crunchy breadcrumbs on top before the final bake can also add an inviting texture contrast, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, frozen cauliflower works well, but make sure to thaw and drain it completely before roasting.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can try cheddar, feta, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.

→ Is there a vegetarian version?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it doesn’t include any meat products. Just ensure your cheese is suitable for vegetarians.