5 Ingredient Skillet Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin

 

Ever crave comfort food that’s incredibly easy to make? This $5 Ingredient Skillet Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin is your answer! Silky textures meet cheesy goodness in this simple yet satisfying dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful side to impress your guests. Let’s explore the magic of this cheesy cauliflower gratin!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin

This recipe is a winner for several reasons:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Minimal Ingredients: Just 5 simple ingredients.
• Budget-Friendly: Costs approximately $5 to make.
• Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup than traditional gratins.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite cheeses or spices.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will love this cheesy goodness!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious gratin:

• 1 large head cauliflower: Cut into florets (about 700g). Pick a firm, white head of cauliflower.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: (120ml). This creates the rich and creamy base.
• 4 ounces cream cheese: Softened (113g). Ensure it’s softened for a smooth sauce.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: (150g). You can use pre-shredded or shred your own.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: (1g). Adds a subtle savory note.

For a flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce. It adds a warm, comforting depth that complements the cauliflower beautifully.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe – A complete meal that’s both delicious and easy!

Essential Equipment List

• Large oven-safe skillet: A 10-12 inch skillet is ideal for even cooking and browning.
• Steamer or pot: For cooking the cauliflower. A steamer helps retain nutrients.
• Colander: To drain the cauliflower thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensuring precise measurements helps achieve the best results.

Recipe Details

• • Prep Time: 10 minutes

this …

• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

Scale this cheesy cauliflower gratin recipe up for a crowd, or halve it for solo dining!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are tender-crisp. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the cauliflower thoroughly using a colander. Ensure the cauliflower is well-drained to prevent a watery gratin.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large oven-safe skillet, combine the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir continuously to prevent the cheese from burning or sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Add the drained cauliflower to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly with the cheese sauce. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Let the gratin cool slightly before serving. This allows the cheese to set a bit, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.

CHECK OUT: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake – Another cheesy delight your family will adore!

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the cauliflower: It should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
• Ensure cream cheese is softened: This helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce.
• Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the cheese sauce before adding the cauliflower and adjust the garlic powder or add a pinch of salt if needed.
• Broil for extra browning: For an extra golden and bubbly top, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Variations & Substitutions

• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for unique flavor profiles.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
• Add Veggies: Mix in other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
• Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Skillet Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin

This creamy and cheesy cauliflower gratin pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider these serving suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Enjoy as a vegetarian main course with a side of crusty bread.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables like carrots or asparagus.

Health Benefits

Cauliflower is packed with nutrients. It is a great source of fiber, which aids digestion. The recipe also provides calcium from cheese, good for your bones! Plus, garlic powder has antioxidant properties, supporting overall health. A tasty and relatively healthy dish!

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cheesy cauliflower gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the gratin in an oven-safe dish and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it for quicker reheating, but the texture may be slightly softer.
• Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze the gratin. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the cheese sauce. This will help prevent a watery gratin.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the gratin ahead of time and bake it just before serving. Assemble the cauliflower and cheese sauce in the skillet, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

What if my cheese sauce is too thick?

If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash more heavy cream or milk until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir well to combine.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella would all be delicious. Adjust the amount of cheese to your preference.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

To prevent the cheese from burning, bake the gratin in the middle rack of the oven. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, cover the skillet with foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 320mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 12g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 10g

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more cheesy goodness? Check out these recipes:

• The Best Broccoli Cheese Casserole – A classic comfort food dish.
• Cheesy Chicken Rice Casserole – A hearty and satisfying family meal.
• Loaded Veggie White Lasagna – A vegetarian twist on a classic lasagna.

Conclusion

This $5 Ingredient Skillet Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin is fast, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

Print