Delicious Cauliflower Parmigiana with Creamy Gruyere Sauce

4 stars
3.94 (15)
Delicious Cauliflower Parmigiana with Creamy Gruyere Sauce
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
50 mins
Total Time:
70mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on November 23, 2023

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

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. 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.
  5. In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom. Arrange the cooked cauliflower florets on top of the sauce.
  6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the cauliflower florets.
  7. 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.
  8. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  9. Stir in the grated Gruyere cheese and continue cooking until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
  10. Pour the Gruyere sauce over the cauliflower and marinara sauce in the baking dish.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  12. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
  13. Serve the Cauliflower Parmigiana warm as a main dish or as a delightful side dish to complement your favorite Italian meals.

Interesting Facts

  • The word Parmigiana comes from the Italian word 'parmigiano,' which means Parmesan cheese.
  • Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable, rich in vitamins and minerals, and a great substitute for higher-carb ingredients in many dishes.
  • Gruyere cheese is a Swiss cheese known for its nutty and creamy flavor, which adds an irresistible taste to this recipe.
  • This cauliflower Parmigiana can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a convenient option for busy weeknight dinners.