This cheesy, yet completely dairy-free Vegan Cauliflower Gratin is the ultimate showstopper side dish, perfect for holiday feasts, special occasions, or comforting family dinners. Bursting with wholesome vegetables and a rich, creamy sauce, this indulgent gratin comes together in just 30 minutes, proving that plant-based can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
Creating an incredibly creamy and utterly decadent au gratin side dish doesn’t require any dairy at all! This Vegan Cauliflower Gratin stands as delicious proof. Each spoonful offers a delightful medley of tender cauliflower florets, nutrient-rich spinach, earthy mushrooms, and a truly cheesy, velvety dairy-free cream sauce. Its versatility makes it a fantastic addition to your holiday spread, complementing dishes like a healthy vegan green bean casserole, or serving as an impressive yet easy weeknight side. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this healthy, plant-based dish becomes a family favorite.
Every layer of this vegan cauliflower gratin is designed for maximum flavor and minimal effort. The components—perfectly cooked cauliflower, a luscious dairy-free cream sauce, and tender sautéed vegetables—are prepared effortlessly on the stovetop. Simply combine them, transfer to a baking dish, and let the oven work its magic. In a mere 30 minutes, you’ll have a bubbling, golden-brown gratin that’s so good, everyone will be asking for seconds, whether it’s a bustling holiday gathering or a relaxed evening meal.
Discover Why This Vegan Cauliflower Gratin is a Must-Try
- Effortless Preparation: All the vibrant vegetable layers and the luxurious creamy sauce come together seamlessly on your stovetop before being baked to perfection in a single casserole dish. This streamlined process means less cleanup and more time to enjoy.
- Versatile & Time-Saving: Whether you’re planning an elaborate holiday menu or seeking a wholesome, quick 30-minute side for busy weeknights, this vegan gratin fits the bill beautifully. It’s designed to impress without demanding hours in the kitchen.
- Light Yet Indulgent: Enjoy all the comforting richness and cheesy satisfaction of traditional gratin recipes, such as our popular Cheesy Cauliflower Bake, but with a lighter, plant-based twist. Packed with nutrient-dense vegetables, it leaves you feeling energized and satisfied, never heavy.
- Dietary Friendly: This recipe is naturally vegan and nut-free, catering to a wide range of dietary needs. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to adapt to be gluten-free by simply choosing your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs, making it accessible for almost everyone.
- Flavorful & Comforting: Experience the perfect balance of savory flavors from the roasted cauliflower, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that truly mimics its dairy counterpart, providing ultimate comfort in every bite.
What Exactly is Cauliflower Au Gratin? (And How Our Vegan Version Shines!)
Traditional cauliflower au gratin is a classic French-inspired side dish renowned for its rich, comforting qualities. It typically features tender, steamed cauliflower florets generously coated in a luxurious béchamel sauce, a creamy white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, often enhanced with decadent Gruyère cheese. This cheesy, savory concoction is then baked until bubbly and golden, usually finished with a crispy, buttered breadcrumb topping, resulting in an irresistible dish that’s a staple at holiday tables and family gatherings.
Our vegan rendition of this beloved classic offers a delightful twist, delivering all the familiar creaminess and cheesy flavor without a single drop of dairy. Instead of a traditional béchamel, we craft a luscious, dairy-free cream sauce using a plant-based milk base, skillfully thickened with cornstarch. This clever substitute perfectly replicates the velvety texture of its dairy counterpart, ensuring your casserole isn’t watery but wonderfully rich. The “cheesy” essence is masterfully achieved through a harmonious blend of nutritional yeast, a culinary staple in vegan cooking known for its savory, umami flavor profile reminiscent of cheese, and vegan parmesan cheese. This combination, alongside the tender cauliflower, creates a deeply satisfying and undeniably cheesy experience that rivals the classic, proving that plant-based dishes can be just as indulgent and flavorful.
Essential Ingredients for Your Dairy-Free Gratin
Crafting this incredible vegan cauliflower bake requires a handful of accessible ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Here’s a closer look at the key components you’ll need to gather:
- Cauliflower: The star of our gratin! You can either purchase a whole head of cauliflower and chop it into bite-sized florets yourself, or opt for pre-chopped cauliflower florets from the grocery store to significantly save on prep time. Look for firm, white florets with no brown spots for the best flavor and texture.
- Mushrooms and Spinach: These power-packed vegetables are sautéed until tender and add a wonderful depth of flavor, moisture, and nutritional boost to the cauliflower casserole. Feel free to experiment with other quick-cooking greens like kale or chard if spinach isn’t available, or add extra veggies like finely diced bell peppers or zucchini for more variety.
- Dairy-Free Milk: The foundation of our creamy sauce. Virtually any unsweetened dairy-free milk will work beautifully here. For the richest flavor, we recommend unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk. If you don’t need the dish to be vegan, you can easily substitute with regular dairy milk.
- Cornstarch: This crucial ingredient acts as our thickening agent, ensuring the creamy sauce achieves the perfect consistency and doesn’t turn out watery. It helps create that luxurious, clinging texture that coats every piece of cauliflower. For an alternative, you can use arrowroot powder or a small amount of all-purpose flour.
- Breadcrumbs: A sprinkle of Panko breadcrumbs on top is key to achieving that irresistible golden-brown, crispy crust that defines a classic gratin. Panko offers a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. For a delicious gluten-free cauliflower gratin, simply swap in your preferred brand of gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Vegan Parmesan: This ingredient delivers that iconic salty, savory, and umami-rich “cheese” flavor. You can readily find excellent store-bought vegan parmesan cheese options in most supermarkets. Alternatively, for a truly homemade touch, consider making your own using this simple recipe from Minimalist Baker.
- Nutritional Yeast: A secret weapon in vegan cooking, nutritional yeast is what truly elevates the “cheesy” flavor of our sauce. It provides a distinct umami profile and a savory, nutty, cheese-like taste that is irreplaceable in dairy-free recipes.
- Vegetable Broth: Adds additional savory depth and helps thin the sauce to the right consistency while adding flavor.
- Vegan Butter, Onion, Garlic: These aromatics and fat form the flavorful base for sautéing our vegetables, building layers of taste from the very beginning.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors into balance.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Optional, but a lovely fresh finish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Vegan Cauliflower Gratin
Follow these simple instructions to create a wonderfully creamy and cheesy dairy-free cauliflower gratin that will impress everyone at your table:
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cauliflower florets into a large saucepan and add enough water to fully cover them. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, then cook the cauliflower for approximately 3 minutes, or until it is just fork-tender but still retains a slight bite. Be careful not to overcook, as it will continue to soften in the oven. Drain the cauliflower thoroughly and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables. While the cauliflower is cooking, melt the vegan butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced yellow onion and sliced mushrooms to the pan. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the mushrooms have released their moisture and started to brown slightly. Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped spinach. Continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes, just until the spinach has fully wilted. This creates a flavorful and tender vegetable base for your gratin.
Step 3: Craft the Creamy Vegan Cheese Sauce. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the dairy-free milk, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, and cornstarch until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and no lumps remain. Pour this mixture directly into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring continuously, until it begins to thicken slightly, typically 2-3 minutes. Once thickened to a desirable consistency, remove the skillet from the heat. Carefully fold in the cooked cauliflower florets, stirring gently to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated in the rich, creamy sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection. Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer the cauliflower mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs generously over the top, followed by the vegan parmesan cheese, creating a delightful crunchy crust. Place the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 14 minutes, allowing the sauce to become bubbly and warm through. For an extra golden-brown and crispy topping, briefly broil the gratin for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley (if desired) for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly baked Vegan Cauliflower Gratin!
Expert Tips & Frequently Asked Questions for Your Vegan Cauliflower Gratin
Achieving the perfect vegan cauliflower gratin is simple with these helpful tips and answers to common questions:
- Cauliflower Cooking Alternatives: If boiling isn’t your preferred method, you can steam the cauliflower florets until they are fork-tender. This preserves more nutrients and prevents the florets from becoming waterlogged.
- Streamlined Cooking (One-Pan Option): For even easier cleanup, consider preparing the vegetable and creamy cauliflower filling directly in an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan. Once the filling is ready, simply add the topping and bake it in the same pan, turning this into an almost one-pan recipe!
- Boost the Protein & Flavor: For a heartier gratin with a smoky depth, stir in some crumbled tempeh bacon along with the cauliflower and cream sauce. Its savory, chewy texture adds another delicious dimension.
- Extra Cheesiness: Craving even more stretchy, melty cheese? Incorporate a handful of your favorite shredded vegan cheese directly into the casserole mixture before baking. This will create gooey, cheesy pulls with every scoop.
- Enhance the Herbaceousness: This gratin recipe is lightly seasoned to maintain a versatile, mild flavor profile. If you desire more warmth and aromatic notes, feel free to mix in dried oregano, basil, sage, thyme, or a pinch of smoked paprika with the sautéed vegetables or sprinkled over the breadcrumb topping before baking.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the entire gratin, including the topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this gratin?
Absolutely! Using frozen cauliflower is a convenient alternative to fresh. Just be sure to thaw the frozen florets completely before using them. After thawing, it’s crucial to thoroughly drain any excess moisture by pressing them gently in a clean kitchen towel. This step is important to prevent your gratin from becoming watery. Once drained, stir them into the skillet with the sauce and vegetables as per the recipe instructions.
What do you serve with vegan cauliflower gratin?
Traditionally, a dairy-full cauliflower gratin is a fantastic accompaniment to hearty mains like a whole roasted chicken, Thanksgiving turkey, meatloaf, or glazed ham. However, since this is a delicious vegan recipe, we recommend pairing it with lighter, more plant-forward main dishes to create a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s wonderfully versatile! Consider serving it alongside perfectly roasted artichokes for an elegant touch, flavorful vegan stuffed peppers, or a hearty lentil lasagna. Its creamy texture also makes it an excellent contrast to crispy tofu or tempeh dishes, or even a simple baked sweet potato.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers
Proper storage ensures your delicious vegan cauliflower gratin remains fresh and enjoyable for days:
- Refrigerator: Allow any leftover vegan gratin to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation and maintains freshness. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the gratin. Once cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat individual portions, simply warm them in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier topping, or to reheat the entire casserole, pop it into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and the breadcrumbs have regained their delightful crunch.
Explore More Easy & Delicious Vegan Cauliflower Recipes
If you’re a fan of cauliflower and plant-based cooking, you’ll love these other fantastic recipes that celebrate this versatile vegetable:
- Creamy Vegan Cauliflower Soup with Tempeh
- Flavorful Chimichurri Cauliflower Steaks
- Spicy Kung Pao Cauliflower Stir-fry
We hope you enjoy this Vegan Cauliflower Gratin as much as we do! If you made this recipe, please consider leaving a comment and star rating below to share your experience. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!
Vegan Cauliflower Gratin
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 8 oz. bella mushrooms, sliced
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 oz. spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup almond milk, or milk of choice
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp cornstarch, or more
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup vegan parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 375°. Place the cauliflower into a large saucepan and fill it with water until it covers the cauliflower. Bring it to a boil, then cook for about 3 minutes until it can easily be pierced with a fork; drain then set aside.
-
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the onion and mushrooms and sauté until soft, about 8 minutes.
-
Add the garlic and spinach to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Whisk the milk, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, and cornstarch together in a bowl, then pour it into the skillet. Simmer over medium-low heat until the sauce has thickened, 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat, then add the cauliflower and stir to coat. Add salt and pepper to taste.
-
Grease an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with nonstick spray, then pour the cauliflower mixture into the dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and vegan parmesan overtop.
-
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 14 minutes, then broil for 1-2 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden on top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley (optional) and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
UPDATE NOTE: This post was originally published in January 2018. It was updated with new text and photos in November 2022 to provide more comprehensive information and an enhanced user experience.
This cheesy, yet completely dairy-free Vegan Cauliflower Gratin is the ultimate showstopper side dish, perfect for holiday feasts, special occasions, or comforting family dinners. Bursting with wholesome vegetables and a rich, creamy sauce, this indulgent gratin comes together in just 30 minutes, proving that plant-based can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
Creating an incredibly creamy and utterly decadent au gratin side dish doesn’t require any dairy at all! This Vegan Cauliflower Gratin stands as delicious proof. Each spoonful offers a delightful medley of tender cauliflower florets, nutrient-rich spinach, earthy mushrooms, and a truly cheesy, velvety dairy-free cream sauce. Its versatility makes it a fantastic addition to your holiday spread, complementing dishes like a healthy vegan green bean casserole, or serving as an impressive yet easy weeknight side. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this healthy, plant-based dish becomes a family favorite.
Every layer of this vegan cauliflower gratin is designed for maximum flavor and minimal effort. The components—perfectly cooked cauliflower, a luscious dairy-free cream sauce, and tender sautéed vegetables—are prepared effortlessly on the stovetop. Simply combine them, transfer to a baking dish, and let the oven work its magic. In a mere 30 minutes, you’ll have a bubbling, golden-brown gratin that’s so good, everyone will be asking for seconds, whether it’s a bustling holiday gathering or a relaxed evening meal.
Discover Why This Vegan Cauliflower Gratin is a Must-Try
- Effortless Preparation: All the vibrant vegetable layers and the luxurious creamy sauce come together seamlessly on your stovetop before being baked to perfection in a single casserole dish. This streamlined process means less cleanup and more time to enjoy.
- Versatile & Time-Saving: Whether you’re planning an elaborate holiday menu or seeking a wholesome, quick 30-minute side for busy weeknights, this vegan gratin fits the bill beautifully. It’s designed to impress without demanding hours in the kitchen.
- Light Yet Indulgent: Enjoy all the comforting richness and cheesy satisfaction of traditional gratin recipes, such as our popular Cheesy Cauliflower Bake, but with a lighter, plant-based twist. Packed with nutrient-dense vegetables, it leaves you feeling energized and satisfied, never heavy.
- Dietary Friendly: This recipe is naturally vegan and nut-free, catering to a wide range of dietary needs. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to adapt to be gluten-free by simply choosing your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs, making it accessible for almost everyone.
- Flavorful & Comforting: Experience the perfect balance of savory flavors from the roasted cauliflower, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that truly mimics its dairy counterpart, providing ultimate comfort in every bite.
What Exactly is Cauliflower Au Gratin? (And How Our Vegan Version Shines!)
Traditional cauliflower au gratin is a classic French-inspired side dish renowned for its rich, comforting qualities. It typically features tender, steamed cauliflower florets generously coated in a luxurious béchamel sauce, a creamy white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, often enhanced with decadent Gruyère cheese. This cheesy, savory concoction is then baked until bubbly and golden, usually finished with a crispy, buttered breadcrumb topping, resulting in an irresistible dish that’s a staple at holiday tables and family gatherings.
Our vegan rendition of this beloved classic offers a delightful twist, delivering all the familiar creaminess and cheesy flavor without a single drop of dairy. Instead of a traditional béchamel, we craft a luscious, dairy-free cream sauce using a plant-based milk base, skillfully thickened with cornstarch. This clever substitute perfectly replicates the velvety texture of its dairy counterpart, ensuring your casserole isn’t watery but wonderfully rich. The “cheesy” essence is masterfully achieved through a harmonious blend of nutritional yeast, a culinary staple in vegan cooking known for its savory, umami flavor profile reminiscent of cheese, and vegan parmesan cheese. This combination, alongside the tender cauliflower, creates a deeply satisfying and undeniably cheesy experience that rivals the classic, proving that plant-based dishes can be just as indulgent and flavorful.
Essential Ingredients for Your Dairy-Free Gratin
Crafting this incredible vegan cauliflower bake requires a handful of accessible ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Here’s a closer look at the key components you’ll need to gather:
- Cauliflower: The star of our gratin! You can either purchase a whole head of cauliflower and chop it into bite-sized florets yourself, or opt for pre-chopped cauliflower florets from the grocery store to significantly save on prep time. Look for firm, white florets with no brown spots for the best flavor and texture.
- Mushrooms and Spinach: These power-packed vegetables are sautéed until tender and add a wonderful depth of flavor, moisture, and nutritional boost to the cauliflower casserole. Feel free to experiment with other quick-cooking greens like kale or chard if spinach isn’t available, or add extra veggies like finely diced bell peppers or zucchini for more variety.
- Dairy-Free Milk: The foundation of our creamy sauce. Virtually any unsweetened dairy-free milk will work beautifully here. For the richest flavor, we recommend unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk. If you don’t need the dish to be vegan, you can easily substitute with regular dairy milk.
- Cornstarch: This crucial ingredient acts as our thickening agent, ensuring the creamy sauce achieves the perfect consistency and doesn’t turn out watery. It helps create that luxurious, clinging texture that coats every piece of cauliflower. For an alternative, you can use arrowroot powder or a small amount of all-purpose flour.
- Breadcrumbs: A sprinkle of Panko breadcrumbs on top is key to achieving that irresistible golden-brown, crispy crust that defines a classic gratin. Panko offers a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. For a delicious gluten-free cauliflower gratin, simply swap in your preferred brand of gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Vegan Parmesan: This ingredient delivers that iconic salty, savory, and umami-rich “cheese” flavor. You can readily find excellent store-bought vegan parmesan cheese options in most supermarkets. Alternatively, for a truly homemade touch, consider making your own using this simple recipe from Minimalist Baker.
- Nutritional Yeast: A secret weapon in vegan cooking, nutritional yeast is what truly elevates the “cheesy” flavor of our sauce. It provides a distinct umami profile and a savory, nutty, cheese-like taste that is irreplaceable in dairy-free recipes.
- Vegetable Broth: Adds additional savory depth and helps thin the sauce to the right consistency while adding flavor.
- Vegan Butter, Onion, Garlic: These aromatics and fat form the flavorful base for sautéing our vegetables, building layers of taste from the very beginning.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors into balance.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Optional, but a lovely fresh finish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Vegan Cauliflower Gratin
Follow these simple instructions to create a wonderfully creamy and cheesy dairy-free cauliflower gratin that will impress everyone at your table:
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cauliflower florets into a large saucepan and add enough water to fully cover them. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, then cook the cauliflower for approximately 3 minutes, or until it is just fork-tender but still retains a slight bite. Be careful not to overcook, as it will continue to soften in the oven. Drain the cauliflower thoroughly and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables. While the cauliflower is cooking, melt the vegan butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced yellow onion and sliced mushrooms to the pan. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the mushrooms have released their moisture and started to brown slightly. Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped spinach. Continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes, just until the spinach has fully wilted. This creates a flavorful and tender vegetable base for your gratin.
Step 3: Craft the Creamy Vegan Cheese Sauce. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the dairy-free milk, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, and cornstarch until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and no lumps remain. Pour this mixture directly into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring continuously, until it begins to thicken slightly, typically 2-3 minutes. Once thickened to a desirable consistency, remove the skillet from the heat. Carefully fold in the cooked cauliflower florets, stirring gently to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated in the rich, creamy sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection. Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer the cauliflower mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs generously over the top, followed by the vegan parmesan cheese, creating a delightful crunchy crust. Place the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 14 minutes, allowing the sauce to become bubbly and warm through. For an extra golden-brown and crispy topping, briefly broil the gratin for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley (if desired) for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly baked Vegan Cauliflower Gratin!
Expert Tips & Frequently Asked Questions for Your Vegan Cauliflower Gratin
Achieving the perfect vegan cauliflower gratin is simple with these helpful tips and answers to common questions:
- Cauliflower Cooking Alternatives: If boiling isn’t your preferred method, you can steam the cauliflower florets until they are fork-tender. This preserves more nutrients and prevents the florets from becoming waterlogged.
- Streamlined Cooking (One-Pan Option): For even easier cleanup, consider preparing the vegetable and creamy cauliflower filling directly in an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan. Once the filling is ready, simply add the topping and bake it in the same pan, turning this into an almost one-pan recipe!
- Boost the Protein & Flavor: For a heartier gratin with a smoky depth, stir in some crumbled tempeh bacon along with the cauliflower and cream sauce. Its savory, chewy texture adds another delicious dimension.
- Extra Cheesiness: Craving even more stretchy, melty cheese? Incorporate a handful of your favorite shredded vegan cheese directly into the casserole mixture before baking. This will create gooey, cheesy pulls with every scoop.
- Enhance the Herbaceousness: This gratin recipe is lightly seasoned to maintain a versatile, mild flavor profile. If you desire more warmth and aromatic notes, feel free to mix in dried oregano, basil, sage, thyme, or a pinch of smoked paprika with the sautéed vegetables or sprinkled over the breadcrumb topping before baking.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the entire gratin, including the topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this gratin?
Absolutely! Using frozen cauliflower is a convenient alternative to fresh. Just be sure to thaw the frozen florets completely before using them. After thawing, it’s crucial to thoroughly drain any excess moisture by pressing them gently in a clean kitchen towel. This step is important to prevent your gratin from becoming watery. Once drained, stir them into the skillet with the sauce and vegetables as per the recipe instructions.
What do you serve with vegan cauliflower gratin?
Traditionally, a dairy-full cauliflower gratin is a fantastic accompaniment to hearty mains like a whole roasted chicken, Thanksgiving turkey, meatloaf, or glazed ham. However, since this is a delicious vegan recipe, we recommend pairing it with lighter, more plant-forward main dishes to create a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s wonderfully versatile! Consider serving it alongside perfectly roasted artichokes, flavorful vegan stuffed peppers, or a hearty lentil lasagna. Its creamy texture also makes it an excellent contrast to crispy tofu or tempeh dishes, or even a simple baked sweet potato.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers
Proper storage ensures your delicious vegan cauliflower gratin remains fresh and enjoyable for days:
- Refrigerator: Allow any leftover vegan gratin to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation and maintains freshness. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the gratin. Once cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat individual portions, simply warm them in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier topping, or to reheat the entire casserole, pop it into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and the breadcrumbs have regained their delightful crunch.
Explore More Easy & Delicious Vegan Cauliflower Recipes
If you’re a fan of cauliflower and plant-based cooking, you’ll love these other fantastic recipes that celebrate this versatile vegetable:
- Creamy Vegan Cauliflower Soup with Tempeh
- Flavorful Chimichurri Cauliflower Steaks
- Spicy Kung Pao Cauliflower Stir-fry
We hope you enjoy this Vegan Cauliflower Gratin as much as we do! If you made this recipe, please consider leaving a comment and star rating below to share your experience. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!
Vegan Cauliflower Gratin
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 8 oz. bella mushrooms, sliced
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 oz. spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup almond milk, or milk of choice
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp cornstarch, or more
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup vegan parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 375°. Place the cauliflower into a large saucepan and fill it with water until it covers the cauliflower. Bring it to a boil, then cook for about 3 minutes until it can easily be pierced with a fork; drain then set aside.
-
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the onion and mushrooms and sauté until soft, about 8 minutes.
-
Add the garlic and spinach to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Whisk the milk, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, and cornstarch together in a bowl, then pour it into the skillet. Simmer over medium-low heat until the sauce has thickened, 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat, then add the cauliflower and stir to coat. Add salt and pepper to taste.
-
Grease an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with nonstick spray, then pour the cauliflower mixture into the dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and vegan parmesan overtop.
-
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 14 minutes, then broil for 1-2 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden on top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley (optional) and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
UPDATE NOTE: This post was originally published in January 2018. It was updated with new text and photos in November 2022 to provide more comprehensive information and an enhanced user experience.