Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin

Name: Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium 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; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I absolutely love making Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin as a special side dish for family gatherings. The creamy cheese sauce combined with perfectly roasted cauliflower creates a comforting and indulgent experience. Each bite is rich yet light, and it’s an excellent way to get more vegetables into our meals. Preparing this gratin requires minimal effort but delivers impressive flavors that everyone will rave about. Plus, it’s a great option for those looking for a vegetarian delight that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or stands alone as a hearty vegetarian dish.

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:13:35.063Z

When I first made this Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin, I was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward the process was. The aroma of roasted cauliflower combines with the nutty scent of melted cheese, making it irresistible. Experimenting with different cheeses, I found that Gruyère provides the perfect depth of flavor while adding a real creaminess.

One tip I can share is to ensure your cauliflower florets are well-seasoned before roasting. I like to toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast them until golden brown—this extra step really enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Trust me, your family will ask for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, cheesy goodness that pleases everyone
Nutty undertones from roasted cauliflower
Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests

The Importance of Roasting

Roasting the cauliflower not only enhances its natural flavors but also adds a lovely caramelization that brings out its nuttiness. The high temperature of 400°F (200°C) is key; this helps achieve golden edges while keeping the florets tender inside. Make sure to spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow even roasting. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which won’t achieve that desired texture.

During roasting, keep an eye on the cauliflower around the 15-minute mark. You want to turn the florets for a uniform roast and avoid burning. The cauliflower should appear golden brown with slightly crispy edges and be fork-tender when properly done. If you find that some pieces are cooking faster than others, it's okay to remove them earlier and let the rest continue roasting.

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is truly the heart of this gratin, providing richness and depth of flavor that elevates the dish. Using heavy cream is essential here, as it gives the sauce a luscious consistency that clings beautifully to the cauliflower. Gruyère cheese melts smoothly, creating a creamy texture; however, if you don’t have Gruyère, feel free to substitute with Swiss cheese or a good sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Take care when combining the cheese with the cream over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent the sauce from scorching. A whisk works well to integrate the ingredients thoroughly and ensure a lump-free sauce. If your sauce turns out too thick, you can add a splash more cream to loosen it up. The goal is a glossy, smooth mixture that pours easily over the roasted florets.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

1 medium 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
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Make sure to prepare all the ingredients before starting the cooking process to ensure a smooth experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the gratin:

Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until golden and tender.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, Gruyère cheese, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.

Combine and Bake

In a baking dish, layer the roasted cauliflower and pour the cheese sauce over it. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake in the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to mix in some sautéed onions or herbs into the cheese sauce before pouring it over the cauliflower.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great advantages of this roasted cauliflower gratin is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the roasted cauliflower and cheese sauce a day in advance. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, layer the ingredients in your baking dish and proceed to bake as directed, allowing an extra few minutes if the mixture is cold.

If you're planning to freeze the gratin, consider freezing it before baking. Assemble the dish completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored for up to two months in the freezer. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or holiday gatherings!

Serving Suggestions

This Sunday Roasted Cauliflower Gratin pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, particularly roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork. Its creamy texture and cheesy richness provide a lovely contrast to the flavors of savory proteins. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or oven-roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the gratin.

Consider garnishing the dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness. A sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg on top can also enhance the flavor. And if you want an extra crispy topping, consider broiling the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking—watch closely to avoid burning!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before roasting for the best texture.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for this gratin?

Absolutely! You can substitute vegan cheese and coconut cream for a plant-based version.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the gratin ahead of time, then bake just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this gratin?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, beef, or a fresh green salad.