Cauliflower-Goat Cheese Gratin is a creamy, cheesy, and elegant side dish that’s perfect for Christmas dinner. It combines tender cauliflower florets baked in a smooth sauce made with goat cheese, cream, and a touch of garlic. The golden crust on top adds a little crunch, while the tangy cheese gives this gratin a rich, slightly earthy flavor. It’s simple to prepare yet fancy enough to grace any holiday table.
1. Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup crumbled goat cheese (about 5 ounces)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
2. Cooking Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
3. Serving Quantity
- Serves 6 people
4. Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes, until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Add the Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in goat cheese, half of the Parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Assemble: Add the cauliflower to the sauce and toss to coat. Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish.
- Add the Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and the remaining Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. The sauce will thicken as it sits.
5. Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 19 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 6 g
6. Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcook the cauliflower before baking—it should stay slightly firm.
- Use a mix of goat cheese and cream cheese if you want a milder flavor.
- For extra crunch, mix chopped walnuts or almonds into the breadcrumb topping.
- A touch of fresh thyme or rosemary can add lovely aroma and depth.
- This gratin pairs beautifully with roast chicken, turkey, or beef during Christmas dinner.
Cauliflower-Goat Cheese Gratin brings warmth and flavor to any holiday meal. Its creamy sauce, golden crust, and rich aroma make it a comforting dish that everyone will want seconds of.
