Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon is the kind of comforting, crave-worthy side dish that turns even the simplest family dinner into something special. Imagine tender cauliflower nestled in a silky cheddar sauce, flecked with crisp bacon, all baked until irresistibly bubbly and golden. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and just the right amount of crunch on top. Whether you’re looking to wow guests at a holiday gathering or just make your weeknight dinners more exciting, this Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon brings big flavor with surprisingly little fuss!

Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ready to whip up something indulgent but oh-so-easy? You’ll love how every ingredient in Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon has a job to do—whether it’s adding creaminess, depth, or that irresistible crispy topping. Here’s what you need and why:

10 slices of bacon (cooked and chopped): These smoky, crunchy bits take the gratin from tasty to truly unforgettable.
8 cups of cauliflower (cut into bite-sized pieces): Light and tender, cauliflower happily soaks up all the cheesy goodness.
6 Tbsp. flour: Essential for thickening the luscious cheese sauce and making it cling to every bit of veg.
3 Tbsp. butter: Starts the roux and adds a rich, buttery undertone to the dish.
4 cups 1% milk (or light whipping cream): Milk keeps things light, while cream brings extra decadence if you want to splurge!
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (plus a bit more for topping): Bold cheese is really the star—Tillamook’s Extra Sharp gives unbeatable flavor.
1 tsp. nutmeg: Just a pinch wakes up the sauce with lovely warmth and depth.
Salt & pepper: Seasoning is crucial—tasting as you go ensures the perfect flavor.
¾ cup breadcrumbs: The secret to an irresistible golden crust on top.
Fresh parsley (chopped): A sprinkle at the end brings brightness and beautiful color.

How to Make Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

Start by cooking your bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Take your time to let it get nice and crispy, because those crunchy bits scattered throughout the Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon make every bite special. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool, then chop it into savory little pieces.

Step 2: Blanch the Cauliflower

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and add in the cauliflower florets. Blanch them for just about 3 minutes—they should be barely tender, not mushy, since they’ll cook more in the oven. Drain the cauliflower and set it aside; this quick step ensures it stays perfectly cooked and soaks up the creamy sauce later!

Step 3: Whisk Up the Cheese Sauce

Now, using the same pot (hooray for fewer dishes!), melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and keep whisking while it forms a smooth, pale roux. Slowly pour in the milk (or cream) while whisking nonstop—this will help prevent lumps and make the sauce extra velvety. Once the mixture thickens, stir in the sharp cheddar cheese, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. When the cheese melts to a rich, dreamy consistency, you’ll know it’s ready.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble

Add the blanched cauliflower and chopped bacon into that luscious cheese sauce, folding gently to coat every bite. Pour the whole mixture into a 9×13 baking dish. Top it off with breadcrumbs and a generous sprinkle of extra cheddar, because that crispy top is what sets this Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon apart!

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Slide the dish into a 375°F oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and you see bubbling around the edges. Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing—a sure sign that Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon is nearly ready.

Step 6: Finish With Parsley and Serve

Once it’s hot and perfectly baked, remove the gratin from the oven. Scatter freshly chopped parsley over the top for a final touch of color and freshness. Let it cool for a few minutes to set the sauce, then dig in!

How to Serve Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only makes the Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon look inviting but also adds a little pop of flavor. For extra zing, you could also try a light dusting of smoked paprika or even some thinly sliced green onions.

Side Dishes

Serve this gratin next to roasted chicken, pan-seared pork chops, or a hearty steak for an unbeatable meal. Its creamy, cheesy richness pairs especially well with roasted or steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or even classic mashed potatoes for a truly comforting spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party twist, try baking the Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon in individual ramekins—everyone will love their own little bubbling portion! You can also spoon it into a hollowed-out squash or large bell peppers for a really eye-catching presentation that doubles as another tasty vegetable on the plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon (lucky you!), simply cover and refrigerate it. It will stay delicious for up to three days, and the flavors might even meld and become richer as they sit.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well. Just transfer cooled portions to airtight containers. When you’re ready for another comforting round, thaw overnight in the fridge. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese and breadcrumbs before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, cover loosely with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly—about 20-25 minutes. You can also use the microwave for individual servings, but crisping up those breadcrumbs under the broiler for a minute or two is highly recommended!

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Thaw and drain frozen cauliflower before using. You may want to reduce the blanching time since it’s often partially cooked, but it works well and makes Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon super convenient year-round.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs. The creamy cheese sauce and bacon flavor will still shine.

What other cheeses work well in this gratin?

While sharp cheddar is the classic choice for Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon, you can mix things up with Gruyère, fontina, or even a bit of smoked gouda for added depth. Just make sure the cheese melts smoothly.

Can I prep Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon in advance?

Definitely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Add breadcrumbs right before baking for the crispiest finish. It’s a great make-ahead option for holidays or busy weeknights.

What’s the best way to make this dish vegetarian?

Simply leave out the bacon and, if you’d like, add roasted mushrooms, sautéed leeks, or sundried tomatoes. The cheese sauce still packs plenty of flavor and comfort!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a go-to side that always gets devoured and earns you lots of love at the table, give Cauliflower Gratin with Bacon a try. It’s that perfect blend of cozy, cheesy, and just a little bit fancy without the fuss. Can’t wait to hear how it becomes your new family favorite!