Introduction

Welcome to an indulgent yet health-conscious recipe that’s perfect for those following a ketogenic lifestyle or anyone simply looking to enjoy a creamy, cheesy dish with a refreshing twist. This Keto Cauliflower Gratin with Lemon, Dill, and Cheese combines the mild, nutty flavor of cauliflower with a zesty lemon and fresh dill, topped with a melty cheese crust that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this gratin is a delightful way to enjoy a low-carb, high-flavor dish.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Gratin:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk (or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free version)
  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Cauliflower

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Rinse the cauliflower florets under cold water and pat dry with a kitchen towel. Cut them into uniform-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
  3. Season and Roast: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and slightly caramelized, turning halfway through for even roasting.

Making the Creamy Cheese Sauce

  1. Heat the Cream and Milk: While the cauliflower is roasting, heat the heavy cream and milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
  2. Add the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Continue to stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
  3. Flavor the Sauce: Stir in the chopped fresh dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste if needed.

Assembling the Gratin

  1. Combine Cauliflower and Sauce: Once the cauliflower is roasted, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the cauliflower and gently toss to coat the florets evenly.
  2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish. Pour the cauliflower and cheese sauce mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.

Adding the Topping

  1. Add Mozzarella: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the cauliflower mixture.
  2. Bake the Gratin: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. For an extra crispy top, you can broil the gratin for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
  3. Garnish and Serve: Remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg

SmartPoints Information (Weight Watchers)

  • SmartPoints: 8 SmartPoints per serving

Tips for Success

  1. Cauliflower Preparation: For best results, ensure the cauliflower florets are evenly cut and well-coated with oil and seasonings before roasting. This helps achieve a uniform texture and flavor.
  2. Creamy Sauce Consistency: If the cheese sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little additional milk. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer it gently until it reaches your desired consistency.
  3. Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of nutmeg can add unique flavors to the gratin.
  4. Make-Ahead Instructions: This gratin can be assembled up to a day in advance. Store the unbaked gratin covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
  5. Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond milk and vegan cheese alternatives. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as Dijon mustard, are compliant with your dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This Keto Cauliflower Gratin pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a hearty salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light protein such as grilled fish or chicken breast. The gratin also complements well with a fresh green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette.

Conclusion

This Keto Cauliflower Gratin with Lemon, Dill, and Cheese is a perfect example of how you can enjoy indulgent, comforting food while sticking to a low-carb, ketogenic diet. With its creamy cheese sauce, vibrant lemon flavor, and fresh dill, this dish delivers on both taste and texture. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this gratin is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying quality. Enjoy this delightful recipe as a versatile side dish or a satisfying main course that’s both keto-friendly and deliciously nutritious.