Gratin de Chou-fleur
A classic French cauliflower gratin featuring tender cauliflower florets enveloped in a rich, creamy Mornay sauce, topped with golden-brown breadcrumbs and melted Gruyère cheese. This comforting side dish is perfect for any occasion.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 large head (about 1kg) Cauliflower
- 60 g Unsalted Butter(about 4 tablespoons)
- 45 g All-purpose Flour(about 1/3 cup)
- 500 ml Whole Milk(about 2 cups, warmed)
- 150 g Gruyère Cheese(about 1.5 cups, divided)
- 50 g Panko Breadcrumbs(about 1/2 cup)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- pinch Nutmeg
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cauliflower florets and blanch for 3-4 minutes, until they are bright green and slightly tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). Immediately drain the cauliflower in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to drain thoroughly.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Make the Mornay sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste (a roux) and smells slightly nutty. Do not let it brown.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is incorporated before adding more. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and lump-free. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to a creamy, coating consistency. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of grated nutmeg if using.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Add most of the grated Gruyère cheese (reserving about 1/4 cup for topping) to the sauce and stir until melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 5
Assemble the gratin: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a medium-sized gratin dish or ovenproof baking dish (approximately 20x20 cm or similar).
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Arrange the blanched cauliflower florets evenly in the prepared dish. Pour the warm Mornay sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring all florets are well-coated.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 7
In a small bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs with the reserved grated Gruyère cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cauliflower and sauce.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 8
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crisp. If the top isn't browning sufficiently, you can briefly place it under the broiler (grill) for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 9
Let the gratin rest for 5 minutes before serving hot.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure cauliflower is blanched until just tender; overcooked cauliflower will become mushy.
- ✓The Mornay sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. Adjust with a splash more milk if too thick.
- ✓A golden, bubbly crust is the hallmark of a great gratin. Don't be afraid to let it get nicely browned.
- ✓Using Panko breadcrumbs provides a superior crispiness compared to regular breadcrumbs.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon or pancetta to the cauliflower before adding the sauce.
- Stir 1-2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard into the Mornay sauce for a subtle tang.
- Incorporate other grated cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan along with the Gruyère.