This comforting, delightfully cheesy dish is perfect for relaxing evenings or dinner parties alike. Though based on the traditional French Gratin de Pommes au Terre, Cauliflower dauphinoise is lighter in calories and carbs. Cook up this hearty-but-relaxed dish whenever you need a little sunshine in your life.

 

 

Ingredients

1 large cauliflower (2 1/2 lbs.)

4 tbsp. olive oil

3 large garlic cloves, minced

 

Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp. unsalted butter

1 1/2 tbsp. all-purpose flour

1 cup whole milk

3/4 cup grated parmesan or other cheese (try Havarti, Gouda, or local Meadowrella) divided

1/2 cup chopped Italian parsley

1-2 tablespoons sambal sauce (optional)

 

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 F. Trim cauliflower stem by about 1 inch, then quarter the cauliflower and cut into florets.
2. Toss the cauliflower with the garlic and olive oil until evenly coated. Place on a baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until tender.
3. As the cauliflower bakes, begin preparing your cheese sauce. Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Once melted, begin whisking in your flour. Cook the flour and butter for one minute, then whisk in your milk. Continue to heat until the milk simmers and the mixture thickens, whisking all the while.
4. Remove the mixture from heat and whisk in 1/4 cup of the cheese, leaving the rest to the side.
5. Remove the cooked cauliflower from the oven and place into a baking dish. Add your parsley and, if you wish, your sambal sauce. Drizzle your cheese sauce generously over the top. Top with the remainder of your grated cheese.

Broil for five minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Let cool briefly, and then serve and enjoy!

This wonderful dish is simple to make and always a hit. Give cheesy dauphinoise a try for your next cozy night-in or family get-together!