Parmesan Cauliflower Casserole

Are you looking for a twist on classic side dishes? Let Baked Cauliflower Parmesan Casserole take center stage at your dinner table. This creamy, cheesy casserole is a fantastic alternative to traditional potato side dishes and a flavor-packed option that’s sure to impress.

With its golden, bubbly parmesan topping and a rich, velvety roux, this cauliflower casserole combines comfort with sophistication, making it a versatile and healthy choice for any meal.

Parmesan Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

This cauliflower au gratin is the perfect replacement for your ordinary potato side dish; lower in carbs but bursting with flavor!

Ingredients:

• head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• unsalted butter
• all-purpose flour
• milk
• heavy whipping cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese divided
• garlic powder, ground nutmeg, and Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)

⭐Prep before you get started: Before starting this cauliflower gratin casserole, you need to cook your cauliflower. The head of cauliflower needs to be roasted (recommended) or steamed to turn it into a casserole.⭐

How to make Baked Cauliflower Parmesan

Preheat Oven & Prep Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam the cauliflower florets until just tender, about 5-7 minutes, then drain well and set aside.

Make the roux:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour to create a smooth paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens.

• Making roux can be difficult for some, and it can thicken if heated too much and too quickly. You can add up to 1 more cup of heavy whipping cream, should you need to, to thin out the roux.

Add Cheese and Seasonings

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted—season with garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Combine and bake casserole:

1. Place the steamed cauliflower in a casserole dish.
2. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
3. If using, sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.

Bake to Perfection: Bake in the oven for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve & enjoy your casserole. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of your Cauliflower Au Gratin!

This dish pairs well with:

• Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
• Oven-Roasted Lamb Chops
• Air Fryer Salmon

Can I use frozen cauliflower with this dish?

Frozen cauliflower is already cleaned and cut, saving you time and effort. It’s also flash-frozen at peak freshness, locking in nutrients and flavor. However, just like steaming, it’s important to address the excess moisture frozen cauliflower can introduce to your dish.

Can I make parmesan cauliflower casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely!

Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How should I store casserole leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What main dishes pair well with cauliflower au gratin?

Basically, anything that you would pair with a potato side would be an excellent accompaniment to this cauliflower casserole.

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