Cauliflower Gratin with Almond Crust

This side dish is definitely a keeper. It is very creamy with a crusty top, and left-overs are just as good. I couldn't find the Gruyere cheese in my grocery store, but any soft cheese will work. I used Monterey Jack, which melted just fine. This would be perfect to make for a new mom or a dinner party.

Ingredients:
1/4 cup butter
1 head cauliflower (about 2 1/4 pound), separated into florets
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup whipping cream
1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
2/3 cup Japanese breadcrumbs (panko)
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400-degrees. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cauliflower and next 2 ingredients; saute 10 minutes or until golden and just tender. Sprinkle with flour and next 2 ingredients; stir well. Remove from heat.

Spoon cauliflower mixture into an 8x8-inch baking dish, and drizzle with cream. Sprinkle with Gruyere cheese and next 3 ingredients.

Bake at 400-degrees for 18-20 minutes or until golden.
Makes 6 servings.

Source: Southern Living