Mashed Potato and Cauliflower Gratin
Description
Looking for a rich, comforting side dish with a twist? This Mashed Potato and Cauliflower Gratin blends creamy potatoes with tender cauliflower and layers of melted cheese for a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.
Perfect for holidays or family dinners, this gratin delivers classic comfort with a slightly lighter touch.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- Salt
- 1¼ cups whole milk, divided
- 1 stick (8 Tbsp.) unsalted butter, divided
- 4 ounces grated Fontina or Gruyère cheese (about 1 cup)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 head cauliflower (2–2½ pounds), cut into pieces
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
- ¾ to 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, divided
Instructions
- Cook potatoes. Place potatoes and 2 teaspoons salt in a large saucepan. Cover with cold water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender.
- Warm milk mixture. While potatoes cook, heat ¾ cup milk and 3 Tbsp butter in a saucepan until butter melts and milk is hot (not boiling). Set aside.
- Mash potatoes. Drain potatoes and return to saucepan. Add warm milk mixture, Fontina cheese, and pepper. Mash to desired consistency. Season with salt and keep warm.
- Cook cauliflower. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower and garlic and cook for 13–15 minutes until very tender.
- Blend cauliflower. Drain and transfer to a food processor. Add remaining milk, ½ cup Parmesan, and 3 Tbsp butter. Blend until slightly chunky.
- Combine. Mix mashed potatoes and cauliflower mixture in a large bowl. Season to taste and transfer to a buttered baking dish.
- Bake. Preheat oven to 425°F. Brush top with remaining melted butter and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan. Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbling.
- Broil. Turn on broiler and cook for 1–2 minutes until top is lightly browned.
- Serve. Let rest briefly before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 233
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 17g
- Calcium: 8.6% DV
Why Dairy?
Milk, butter, and cheese create a creamy, rich texture while adding calcium and protein. Dairy enhances both flavor and structure in this comforting gratin.Make It Your Own
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary
- Use sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile
- Add breadcrumbs for a crispy topping
- Mix in roasted garlic for extra depth
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Reheat in the oven for best texture
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months

