Cauliflower and bacon gratin
This Cauliflower and Bacon Gratin features tender cauliflower paired with crispy bacon in a creamy cheese sauce, all topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. It's a comforting dish perfect for a cozy meal.
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1 cauliflower2 bacon strips
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
1.50 cups milk (1% fat)
2 tsp mustard
1 cup cheddar cheese
1/2 cup bread crumbs
Looking for a comforting and delicious dish? This Cauliflower and Bacon Gratin combines tender cauliflower with crispy bacon, all smothered in a creamy cheesy sauce and topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a main course on a cozy evening.
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes, or until just tender but still a bit firm.
- Drain the cauliflower and transfer it to a large, ovenproof dish.
- In a medium pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it turns crispy.
- Remove from the pan and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
- In the same pan, add the butter to the bacon fat and melt over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour to form a roux and cook for about 2 minutes, until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the mustard, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the cooked bacon. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the cauliflower.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter (optional) to help them brown better.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the cheese-topped cauliflower.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious cauliflower and bacon gratin as a comforting side dish or a hearty main course!
Voilà! Your Cauliflower and Bacon Gratin is ready to serve. With its delectable combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delightful dish as a side or a sumptuous main course that's perfect for any occasion.
Cauliflower and bacon gratin FAQ:
Bake the gratin in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Cook the cauliflower florets in boiling salted water for about 5 minutes. They should be tender but still slightly firm, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
Yes, you can prepare the gratin ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it is cold from the fridge.
You can substitute cheddar cheese with other melting cheeses such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your favorite cheeses, although the flavor will vary.
A medium to large ovenproof dish (about 2-quart capacity) works well for this recipe. Ensure it's large enough to hold the cauliflower and sauce while allowing for some topping.
Tips:
- Choose a fresh, firm cauliflower without any brown spots for the best results.
- You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner version of the dish.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add the milk while making the sauce to avoid lumps.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 430kcal
Protein 20g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 5g
Sugar 10g
Fat 27g
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