Creamy Cauliflower Gratin with Mascarpone

Ingredients

• 3 pounds cauliflower (about 1 large or 2 medium heads) (separated into florets (8 cups))
• 1 tablespoon softened butter
• 4 ounces mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped rosemary (thyme or sage (or a combination))
• 1 garlic clove (grated on a rasp grater or pressed in a garlic press)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 425 (220 C) degrees, with the oven rack positioned in the center of the oven.

2. 2

   Blanch the cauliflower in a pot of boiling salted water for 3 minutes. Drain well and pat dry with a towel.

3. 3

   Spread the butter over the bottom of 3-4 quart shallow gratin or baking dish. Arrange the cauliflower in the dish.

4. 4

   In a medium bowl, whisk the mascarpone, cream, flour, ¼ cup of the Parmesan, herbs, garlic, salt and black pepper until smooth. Spoon the mixture evenly over the cauliflower. Sprinkle the top with the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan.

5. 5

   Bake 25 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the sauce is bubbling. Cool 5-10 minutes before serving.