Description
A comforting, low-carb twist on classic au gratin, combining creamy cheese sauce with savory smoked sausage and tender florets.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Cauliflower Florets (Fresh or pre-chopped)
- 2 cups Broccoli Florets (Lightly steamed)
- 1 pound Sliced Smoked Sausage (Your favorite variety)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (For sautéing)
- 1 medium Onion (Diced)
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Sauté briefly)
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Softened)
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Main flavor component)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized ovenproof skillet.
- Prepare veggies: If using fresh broccoli and cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets. Steam them for 3–4 minutes or until just tender-crisp. Drain well and pat dry.
- Brown the sausage: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until golden, about 4–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Reduce heat to low and add softened cream cheese, stirring to melt. Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream while stirring until smooth. Stir in half the shredded cheddar until melted, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
- Combine: Add the lightly steamed cauliflower and broccoli to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the cheese sauce. Fold in browned sausage slices.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes or until bubbly and golden. For a crispier top, finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes.
- Rest the dish for 5 minutes before serving warm.
Notes
For best texture, ensure vegetables are well-dried after steaming. The dish can be made vegetarian by substituting sausage with plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Keto