Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin

Name: Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 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 Gruyère cheese, grated; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I absolutely adore this Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin! It's become a staple in my kitchen for weekend gatherings. The creamy sauce mixed with roasted cauliflower creates a comforting dish that my family and friends can't resist. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and it's a lovely way to elevate simple ingredients. I love how easy it is to prepare, and the baked cheesy topping is a fantastic finish that adds a delightful crunch. This dish has quickly become one of our favorites for Sunday dinners and special occasions.

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:09:36.190Z

When I first made this Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin, I was surprised by how much my family loved it. I chose cauliflower for its ability to absorb flavors, and paired it with a rich, creamy cheese sauce that ties everything together beautifully. As I roasted the cauliflower, the aromas filled my kitchen, setting the perfect atmosphere for a cozy family meal. The crispy topping creates a mouthwatering contrast that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!

One of my favorite tips is using a combination of cheeses for depth of flavor. I often go for Gruyère and Parmesan; they melt so well and provide a savory kick. I make this dish ahead of time, allowing the ingredients to meld together, which makes it even more delicious. Trust me, this gratin will impress your guests and become a crowd favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy cheese sauce with a crispy golden topping
Nutty flavors from roasted cauliflower enhance every bite
Perfect comfort food for gatherings and family meals

      

Roasting Cauliflower to Perfection

The key to achieving the perfect roasted cauliflower lies in the initial roasting technique. Tossing the florets in olive oil, salt, and pepper allows them to caramelize beautifully, enhancing their natural sweetness. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting. You’ll know they are ready when they turn golden brown around the edges and feel fork-tender, which typically takes about 25 minutes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C).

Be mindful to check on the cauliflower halfway through the roasting process. Give them a gentle stir to promote even browning. If you notice some pieces are coloring too quickly, a quick shuffle will ensure they cook evenly without burning. The result will be nutty and flavorful florets that serve as the perfect base for your creamy gratin.

Crafting the Creamy Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is where you can really customize the dish. Gruyère offers a rich, nutty flavor that complements the roasted cauliflower beautifully, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty kick. As you melt the cheeses in the cream over medium heat, be sure to stir constantly to prevent any burning at the bottom of the saucepan. This should take about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is glossy and smooth.

Incorporating minced garlic and a pinch of nutmeg elevates the sauce, adding depth of flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using cashew cream or a plant-based cheese alternative, but be cautious with the consistency. You may need to adjust the amount of cheese used to achieve a creamy texture that still coats the cauliflower nicely without being too runny.

Making Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin is that it can be prepared ahead of time. After assembling the dish but before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This gives the flavors time to meld beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or special occasions.

To reheat, simply bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through and the top is crisp again. If you want to add a fresh touch, consider sprinkling a bit more cheese or breadcrumbs on top right before baking to achieve that desirable golden crust once again.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin:

Ingredients

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients will combine to create a deliciously creamy and cheesy gratin.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your gratin:

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes until golden and tender.

Make the Cheese Sauce

While the cauliflower roasts, combine the cream, Gruyère cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and nutmeg in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the cheeses melt and the mixture is smooth.

Assemble the Gratin

Once the cauliflower is roasted, transfer it to a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring it is well coated. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.

Bake the Gratin

Bake the gratin in the preheated oven for an additional 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.

This gratin can be served warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider experimenting with different cheeses or adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions

This gratin pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, such as roasted chicken or grilled meats. The creamy richness complements savory meats beautifully and brings a comforting element to any meal. For a complete vegetarian feast, serve it alongside a fresh mixed greens salad to balance the dish’s richness.

You can also get creative with your serving style. Consider individual ramekins instead of a large baking dish for individual portions. This not only allows for better presentation but also makes serving easier during gatherings.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to add some variety, consider mixing in different vegetables along with the cauliflower. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or even sliced mushrooms can enhance the dish's texture and flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the roasting time based on the added vegetables to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

For an extra kick, you can add some cooked pancetta or bacon to the cheese sauce for a smoky flavor. Alternatively, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. These variations can elevate your gratin and make it a memorable addition to any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this gratin ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the gratin a day in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge, then bake it right before serving.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a slightly lighter version or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, but the flavor will differ.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli or Brussels sprouts make excellent additions to this gratin.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.