I've never been a fan of cauliflower, until this dish! Smoky Cauliflower Cheesy au Gratin is an easy side dish with a smoky flavor full of cheesy goodness!
Add olive oil and cauliflower florets to a medium bowl. Stir with a large spoon to coat each floret well with oil.Mix together the paprika, garlic powder, sweet mesquite seasoning, and seasoned salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning over the florets. Stir to combine and coat each of the florets well.
Line a medium or large cast-iron skillet with foil and place the seasoned cauliflower florets on the skillet. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes on the grill (or oven) until the cauliflower begins to soften.
Meanwhile ...
In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Then whisk in the flour until combined. Slowly whisk in the milk continuing to stir until smooth. Add cheese, whisk until completely melted. Sprinkle with pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set to the side.
Pull the cauliflower from the grill (or oven). Transfer the veggies from the skillet to an 8x8-inch baking dish (or 9x9-inch baking dish) and the pour cheese sauce over the top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350° F oven for 30 minutes. Remove from oven, top with a bit of cheddar cheese and sprinkle with dried parsley. Serve hot.