Elevate your dining experience with our unique take on the classic Cauliflower Au Gratin. Roasted cauliflower and broccoli come together in a luscious cheese sauce, enriched with the perfect blend of spices. Topped with a zesty Ritz cracker crumb topping, this gourmet dish will leave your taste buds tingling with delight. Follow our step-by-step guide to transform these humble vegetables into a culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 1 small head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 small head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 large cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 1/4 cups shredded artisanal white cheddar
- Pinch of freshly ground nutmeg
- Salt & pepper to taste
Crumb Topping:
- 20 Ritz crackers
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat and Roast: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Spray a generously sized baking dish with nonstick baking spray. Arrange broccoli and cauliflower, roasting for 15 minutes or until they achieve a delicate golden brown hue.
- Savory Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add finely chopped onion, cooking for 5 minutes. Introduce minced garlic, sautéing for an additional 30 seconds. Whisk in flour, cooking for 90 seconds while whisking constantly. Gradually introduce milk and vegetable broth, alternating between the two. Reduce heat to low, add cheddar, and whisk until the cheese melts, creating a smooth and creamy mixture. Incorporate nutmeg and season with salt & pepper to taste. Pour this luxurious sauce over the roasted broccoli and cauliflower.
- Zesty Crumb Topping: In a food processor, pulse the Ritz crackers until crushed. Add oregano, onion powder, and melted butter, pulsing a couple of times. Sprinkle this zesty crumb topping over the cheese sauce.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the dish achieves a light golden brown perfection.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the harmonious blend of roasted vegetables and velvety cheese sauce, crowned with a zesty crumb topping. Our Gourmet Cauliflower Au Gratin is a celebration of flavors and textures that will make every bite a moment to savor. Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses and let the joy of cooking guide your culinary adventure. Elevate your dinner table with this sophisticated twist on a timeless classic.
source of the picture : small town woman
