This delicious recipe offers a nutritious twist on a classic dish, combining the health benefits of cauliflower with the flavor of everything bagels. Cauliflower is a low-carb, high-fiber vegetable packed with vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and compounds that support digestive health and immune function. The cheesy-seedy crust adds a satisfying crunch and a boost of protein and healthy fats, thanks to the seeds and cheese. This casserole is a great option for a holiday meal or as a hearty side dish with roast chicken, providing a delicious and wholesome complement to any main course.
Prep Time: 40 mins | Additional Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins | Servings: 12
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon unsalted butter, plus 4 tablespoons, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper, divided
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 large heads cauliflower, cored and cut into 2-inch florets
- ¼ cup finely sliced chives, divided
- 1 ⅓ cups finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (3 ounces)
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (Optional)
- 3 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 ½ teaspoons caraway seeds
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Coat a 3-quart broiler-safe casserole dish with 1 teaspoon butter.
- Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. When the foaming subsides, reduce heat to medium; add garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Add flour, whisk to combine, and cook, stirring constantly, until no flour smell remains, 2 to 3 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk, whisking between additions, until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a lively simmer. Cook, whisking, until thickened, about 2 minutes. Add cauliflower, 3 tablespoons chives and cayenne (if using), folding to combine. Transfer to the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake until the cauliflower is tender and beginning to brown, 35 to 40 minutes. Remove from oven.
- Position a rack in upper third of oven; preheat broiler to high.
- Combine cheese, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, caraway seeds and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl. Sprinkle on the casserole. Broil until the cheese is melted and the top is golden, about 2 minutes. Serve topped with the remaining 1 tablespoon chives.
To make ahead: Prepare through Step 3 up to 1 hour ahead; finish with Steps 4-5 just before serving.
Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size 1 cup; Calories 158; Total Fat 10g; Saturated Fat 5g; Cholesterol 25mg; Sodium 366mg; Total Carbohydrate 11g; Dietary Fiber 2g; Total Sugars 4g; Protein 7g; Vitamin C 29mg; Calcium 196mg; Iron 1mg; Potassium 305mg
