Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Gratin

Ingredients

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup finely diced onion
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread on the sheet and roast 20-25 minutes until lightly browned.
3. In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat; add garlic and onion and sauté 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute, then gradually whisk in heavy cream; simmer 5 minutes until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and mix in cheddar, Parmesan, thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer roasted cauliflower to a 9‑x‑13‑inch glass baking dish and pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top.
7. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter; sprinkle over the sauce.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the topping is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
9. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.