Indulge in the cheesy goodness of this Cauliflower Parmigiana with Gruyere Sauce recipe. Made with tender cauliflower florets coated in a flavorful marinara sauce, topped with creamy Gruyere cheese sauce, and baked to perfection. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic eggplant Parmigiana. With its combination of textures and flavors, it is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Prepare this comforting and delicious dish in just under an hour and enjoy a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups Gruyere cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the coated cauliflower florets in the skillet and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom. Arrange the cooked cauliflower florets on top of the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the cauliflower florets.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Stir in the grated Gruyere cheese and continue cooking until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Pour the Gruyere sauce over the cauliflower and marinara sauce in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve the Cauliflower Parmigiana warm as a main dish or as a delightful side dish to complement your favorite Italian meals.