If you are craving something that feels both cozy and sophisticated, Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. This dish takes humble cauliflower and elevates it into a rich, cheesy, and utterly delicious toast that’s perfect for any time of day. With its golden, bubbly topping and a perfect balance of creamy Gruyère, tangy Parmesan, and a hint of spicy red pepper flakes, it’s a standout recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal. Once you make it, this cauliflower toast will become your go-to comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its surprisingly simple and fresh ingredients, each one playing a crucial role in building its delightful flavor, texture, and color. From the roasted cauliflower that adds a nutty depth, to the cheeses that bring richness and gooey melt, every element counts.
- 1 small head of cauliflower (cut into large florets): The star vegetable, roasted to develop a tender, caramelized flavor perfect for the topping.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for roasting the cauliflower, adding richness and helping it brown beautifully.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors.
- 4 ounces grated Gruyère cheese: Provides a creamy, slightly sweet, and nutty character that melts beautifully.
- 2 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, savory notes that complement the Gruyère perfectly.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Gives a smooth, luscious texture and helps bind the topping together.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Injects a gentle tang and depth that cuts through the richness.
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: A subtle spicy kick to keep the flavor exciting.
- 4 slices thick-cut country bread (such as sourdough): The sturdy base, toasted to hold up under the creamy topping without getting soggy.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives: Fresh, mild onion flavor sprinkled on top for a lovely bright finish.
How to Make Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cauliflower florets on a sheet pan, drizzle them generously with olive oil, and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until each piece is tender and beautifully browned. Roasting not only softens the cauliflower but also brings out a slightly sweet, caramelized flavor that sets the foundation for this recipe’s irresistible taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower Mixture
Once the cauliflower has cooled just enough to handle, chop it finely so it mixes evenly with the other ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cauliflower with grated Gruyère, Parmesan, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. This mixture will be the creamy, cheesy topping that makes the toast so special.
Step 3: Toast the Bread
Place the thick-cut sourdough slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes. Toasting the bread before adding the topping ensures it stays crisp and can fully support the rich cauliflower spread without getting soggy. If you want an extra burst of flavor, rubbing the toasted bread with a cut garlic clove before adding the topping is a fantastic trick to try.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
After removing the toasted bread from the oven, spread the cauliflower-cheese mixture evenly across each slice, making sure to reach the edges for full coverage. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll want to see the topping bubble up and turn a gorgeous golden brown color, signaling that the cheeses are perfectly melted and that delicious crust has formed.
How to Serve Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe
Garnishes
One of the simple joys of this recipe is the finishing touch of chopped fresh chives sprinkled right after baking. They bring a burst of color and a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens the rich, creamy topping beautifully. Don’t skip this step—it’s what takes the toast from delightful to downright crave-worthy.
Side Dishes
This cauliflower toast pairs wonderfully with light, crisp salads or simple roasted vegetables to keep the meal balanced and fresh. If you’re serving it for breakfast or brunch, a side of scrambled eggs or a citrusy fruit salad will create a well-rounded, satisfying plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the toasts into smaller, bite-sized squares or triangles to serve as elegant appetizers at your next gathering. You can also add a drizzle of honey or a dash of smoked paprika on top for an unexpected flavor pop. These creative presentations make it both visually appealing and endlessly versatile!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cauliflower toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain texture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently to avoid drying out the bread.
Freezing
While freezing this toast is possible, it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated because the crispy bread may lose its texture after freezing and thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then use within one month for best results.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked magic, reheat your cauliflower toast in a 350°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave, which can make the bread soggy and the topping less tasty. This way, you preserve the crispy edges and bubbly, golden cheese topping everyone loves.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe?
Absolutely! While thick-cut country bread or sourdough works best for its sturdy texture and tangy flavor, you can experiment with rustic Italian bread or even a hearty multigrain. Just make sure the bread is thick enough to hold the topping without becoming soggy.
Is there a good substitute for Gruyère cheese?
If you can’t find Gruyère, fontina or a sharp white cheddar are excellent alternatives. They still melt nicely and provide a wonderful, rich flavor that complements the cauliflower just as well.
How spicy is this cauliflower toast?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick—not overpowering but enough to give the toast an extra layer of flavor complexity. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or omit it altogether if you prefer mild flavors.
Can I prepare the cauliflower topping in advance?
Yes, preparing the cauliflower mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerating it is a great way to save time. Just bring it to room temperature before spreading it on the toasted bread and baking for the best texture and flavor.
Is Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Definitely! This recipe contains no meat or fish, making it an ideal vegetarian dish packed with vegetables and cheese. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a hearty, meat-free meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe has an irresistible charm that comes from its simple ingredients combined in a way that feels special and comforting. Whether you’re looking for a tasty brunch idea, a cozy lunch, or a unique appetizer, this cauliflower toast delivers every time. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite that you want to share with everyone you know!
Print
Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast is a delicious and comforting vegetarian main course that features roasted cauliflower mixed with Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses, creamy mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard spread over toasted country bread, then baked to bubbly golden perfection. This dish combines rich flavors and a satisfying texture, perfect for a cozy meal or an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients
Cauliflower Mixture
- 1 small head of cauliflower (cut into large florets)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 ounces grated Gruyère cheese
- 2 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Bread
- 4 slices thick-cut country bread (such as sourdough)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Roast Cauliflower: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cauliflower florets on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and browned. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly, then finely chop the cauliflower.
- Prepare Cauliflower Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped roasted cauliflower with the grated Gruyère, Parmesan, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Toast Bread Slices: Arrange the bread slices on a sheet pan and toast them in the same oven for about 5 minutes until they are lightly toasted and crisp.
- Assemble Toasts: Remove the bread from the oven and evenly spread the cauliflower cheese mixture on each slice, covering all the way to the edges.
- Bake Topped Toast: Return the assembled toasts to the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the toasts with the chopped fresh chives and serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, rub the toasted bread with a cut garlic clove before spreading the cauliflower mixture.
- If Gruyère cheese is not available, you can substitute with another melting cheese such as fontina or sharp cheddar.
