Creamy Thanksgiving WW Cauliflower Gratin with Crispy Panko Topping

Thanksgiving is all about indulgence, but what if you could enjoy a dish that’s just as luxurious as the classics without the post-dinner guilt?

Enter the WW Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin with Crispy Panko Topping—the ultimate side dish for your holiday spread.

Thanksgiving Side Dish That Will Wow Your Guests

Imagine this: creamy, cheesy cauliflower topped with golden, crispy breadcrumbs. It’s elegant, satisfying, and light enough to leave room for that second slice of pie. Plus, its stunning presentation makes it a standout on any table. Trust me, this healthy cauliflower gratin will have your guests raving.

Pair it with roasted turkey, green beans, and cranberry sauce for a meal that’s as balanced as it is delicious. Bonus? It frees up valuable oven space, as it can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving. Thanksgiving just got a little easier—and a lot tastier!

Table of Contents

Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights)

Here’s why this WW Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin with Crispy Panko Topping deserves a spot on your table:

1. Comfort Food Vibes, Guilt-Free: This dish delivers all the creamy, cheesy goodness you crave without derailing your health goals. It’s indulgent yet Weight Watchers-friendly!
2. A Crunchy, Golden Topping: The crispy panko and Pecorino topping takes this gratin to the next level, adding texture and a savory finish that’s simply irresistible.
3. Family-Approved: It’s kid-tested and husband-approved. My kids don’t even realize they’re eating a veggie-loaded dish, and my guests always ask for the recipe.
4. Versatile and Easy: Whether you’re planning a holiday menu or need a quick side for a weeknight dinner, this gratin fits right in. It’s elegant enough for special occasions but easy enough to whip up anytime.
5. Weight Watchers-Friendly: With just 4 WW points per serving, you can enjoy seconds without the guilt.

This recipe is all about taking simple, wholesome ingredients and turning them into something extraordinary.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy, delicious dish:

• Cooking spray
• Cauliflower florets
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Grated Pecorino cheese
• Kosher salt
• Unsalted butter
• All-purpose flour
• 1% low-fat milk (warmed)
• Gruyère cheese (shredded)
• Part-skim mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• Jarred minced garlic
• Ground nutmeg
• Fresh parsley

How to Make WW Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin

Overview of the Steps:

Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 400°F and coat a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.

Cook the Cauliflower: Boil the cauliflower florets until fork-tender, then drain well.

Create the Cheese Sauce: Prepare a roux with butter and flour, then whisk in warm milk. Stir in Gruyère, mozzarella, garlic, and seasonings until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Dish: Arrange cauliflower in the baking dish, pour the cheese sauce over, and mix to coat. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumb mixture on top.

Bake: Bake until the topping is golden brown and crispy, then garnish with parsley before serving.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gratin stays delicious and creamy, even after reheating!
2. Reheat Like a Pro: For the crispiest topping, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10–15 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but the topping won’t stay as crunchy.
3. Make Ahead Magic: You can assemble the gratin up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed—perfect for stress-free entertaining.
4. Freezer-Friendly? Not Quite: While the gratin tastes best fresh, freezing isn’t ideal since the cheese sauce can separate. Stick to enjoying it fresh or reheated within a few days!

Serving Tips

1. Pair It Up: Serve this cheesy cauliflower gratin alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a lean beef roast for a balanced, elegant meal.
2. Vegetarian Feast: Pair it with a crisp green salad and crusty whole-grain bread for a satisfying meatless dinner.
3. Holiday Star: This dish shines on a holiday table. It’s the perfect side to complement turkey, ham, or any festive main course.
4. Portion with Care: Each serving is about ½ cup—just enough to indulge while keeping things WW-friendly.
5. Garnish to Impress: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a pinch of smoked paprika before serving adds a pop of color and a touch of extra flavor.

This dish is so versatile—it can go from weeknight dinners to the centerpiece of a special occasion without skipping a beat!

Tips & FAQs

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.

What Cheese Can I Use Instead of Gruyère?

Swiss or even Parmesan can be substituted for Gruyère if needed. They’ll still provide that rich, cheesy flavor.

How Can I Add More Protein?

You can toss in cooked, shredded chicken or turkey to make this dish a main course instead of a side.

Can I Make It Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready.

What Other Vegetables Can I Use?

Broccoli, carrots, or even roasted zucchini are great alternatives or additions to the cauliflower.

Why This Recipe Fits Your WW Plan

This baked cauliflower with cheese is perfect for anyone following the Weight Watchers program. Here’s why:

• Low in Points: With just 4 WW points per serving, this dish is a guilt-free way to enjoy cheesy comfort food.
• High in Nutrients: Cauliflower is rich in vitamins C and K, low in carbs, and packed with fiber to keep you full longer.
• Versatile: Pair this dish with lean proteins like grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced meal.

Plus, the use of low-fat milk, part-skim mozzarella, and just a touch of Gruyère ensures you’re getting maximum flavor with fewer calories and fat.

More Healthy Side Dish Ideas

• WW Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• Skinny Mac and Cheese with Veggies
• Zucchini Noodle Alfredo

I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share a photo of your dish on social media and tag me.

Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who are looking for the WW Cauliflower Gratin with Crispy Panko Topping—they’ll thank you for it! 🥚✨

Healthy

Creamy Thanksgiving WW Cauliflower Gratin with Crispy Panko Topping

Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 25 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 35 mins Difficulty: Beginner Cooking Temp: 400  °C Servings: 8 Estimated Cost: $  11 Calories: 130 Best Season: Winter, Fall

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Author: Kristy Cook Cooking Method: Baking Cuisine: American Courses: Healthy, Healthy Snacks, Side Dishes, Weight Watcher Lunch, Weight Watcher Snack, Weight Watchers Recipes Recipe Keys: Baking Kid-Friendly Quick Meals Summer vegetables

Description

This WW Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin with Crispy Panko Topping is a creamy, crunchy, and Weight Watchers-friendly side dish that’s perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

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1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• Cooking Spray: (To coat the baking dish and keep everything light.)

• 3 pounds Cauliflower: (of fresh florets for a hearty base.)

• ¹⁄₂ cup Panko Breadcrumbs: (for that crisp, golden topping.)

• ¹⁄₄ cup Grated Pecorino Cheese: (adds salty, nutty depth to the topping.)

• Kosher Salt: (Divided for seasoning the water, sauce, and topping.)

• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: (to create a velvety roux.)

• 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour: (to thicken the cheese sauce.)

• 1 cup 1% Low-Fat Milk: (, warmed, for a creamy yet light base.)

• 2 ounces Gruyère Cheese: ((about ½ cup), shredded for its nutty, rich flavor.)

• ¹⁄₂ cup Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese: (, for a gooey, cheesy finish.)

• 2 teaspoons Jarred Minced Garlic: (for a hint of savory depth.)

• Ground Nutmeg: (A pinch to add warmth and complexity.)

• 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley: (, chopped, for a pop of freshness.)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and coat a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.

Prepare the Cauliflower

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook until fork-tender, about 5–6 minutes. Drain well and set aside.

Make the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Pecorino cheese, and ½ teaspoon salt. Set aside for sprinkling later.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, cooking until the mixture thickens. Stir in Gruyère, mozzarella, garlic, remaining teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Gratin

1. Spoon the cauliflower into the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower and gently toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle the panko topping evenly over the dish.

Bake to Perfection

1. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 130kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 7g11%

Sodium 280mg12%

Total Carbohydrate 9g3%

Dietary Fiber 2g8%

Protein 7g15%

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Points per serving 4

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

As a mom of two picky eaters and a husband who’s a true comfort food enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of dinner table critiques. But this WW Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin with Crispy Panko Topping? It was a home run! My kids cleaned their plates (and didn’t even realize they were eating cauliflower), while my husband kept asking, “Are you sure this is Weight Watchers-approved?” It’s a proud moment when a dish can win over everyone and still align with my healthy eating goals. Trust me, if it’s a hit in my house, it’s bound to be a winner in yours too!

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