Superb Rigatoni and Cauliflower Au Gratin

By HeatherS

Ingredients

• 9 oz (260 g) rigatoni pasta
• 1 medium cauliflower, in florets
• 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter
• 1 tbsp (15 mL) vegetable oil
• 2 onions, coarsely chopped
• 2 tbsp (30 mL) cornstarch
• 3 cups (750 mL) milk
• 1 1/4 cups (300 mL) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) pepper
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup (50 mL) bread crumbs
• 2 tbsp (30 mL) finely chopped fresh parsley

Preparation

Step 1

In a large pot of lightly salted boiling water, cook pasta for 10 to 12 minutes, adding cauliflower florets after 4 minutes. Cook until pasta and cauliflower are tender.

Meanwhile, in large pan over medium heat, melt butter, add oil and onions, stirring, until onions are lightly browned. Stir in cornstarch and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk and cook, stirring, until sauce comes to a boil and is thickened.

Stir in 1 cup (250 mL) of the cheese, and salt, pepper, nutmeg, drained pasta and cauliflower.

Spoon into a buttered 13 x 9 inch (33 x 23 cm) baking dish. Sprinkle bread crumbs, remaining cheese and parsley over pasta mixture.

Place under preheated broiler. Broil until golden brown. Serve immediately.