Cauliflower Casserole (Casserole de Chou-Fleur)

Casserole de Chou-Fleur is a comforting and creamy dish that transforms cauliflower into a culinary delight. This French-inspired casserole combines tender cauliflower florets with a rich béchamel sauce and a generous sprinkle of cheese, all baked to create a golden, bubbling masterpiece. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that serves as a perfect side or a vegetarian main course. Casserole de Chou-Fleur is ideal for those seeking a cozy and satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious and promises to bring a touch of French elegance to your dining experience.

AuthorJulia ForesekCategory, , DifficultyIntermediate

Yields6 Servings
Prep Time20 minsCook Time35 minsTotal Time55 mins

 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
 2 cloves garlic, minced
 1 small onion, finely chopped
 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
 2 cups milk
 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or cheddar if preferred)
 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
 Salt and pepper to taste
 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
 Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

1

Pre-cook the Cauliflower:

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 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

2

Pre-cook the Cauliflower:

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 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

3

Assemble the Casserole:

Place the cauliflower florets in a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, remaining Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the cauliflower and sauce.

4

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

5

Serve:

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Ingredients

 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
 2 cloves garlic, minced
 1 small onion, finely chopped
 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
 2 cups milk
 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or cheddar if preferred)
 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
 Salt and pepper to taste
 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
 Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1

Pre-cook the Cauliflower:

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 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

2

Pre-cook the Cauliflower:

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 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

3

Assemble the Casserole:

Place the cauliflower florets in a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, remaining Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the cauliflower and sauce.

4

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

5

Serve:

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Cauliflower Casserole (Casserole de Chou-Fleur)

Perfect Wine Pairing:

  • Chardonnay: A creamy, oak-aged Chardonnay complements the rich and cheesy flavors of the casserole.
  • Alternative: A Sauvignon Blanc offers a crisp contrast to the dish, with its zesty and herbal notes balancing the creaminess.

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