Creamed Cauliflower

1 medium head cauliflower, broken into florets (about 7 cups)
1 ½ teaspoons salt, divided
½ cup dry bread crumbs, divided
1 cup half-and-half cream
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
Minced fresh parsley, optional

Place cauliflower in a saucepan; add 1 in. of water and 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 6-7 minutes or until crisp-tender; drain. Grease the bottom and sides of a 2-qt. baking dish; sprinkle with 2 tablespoons bread crumbs. Add cauliflower. Pour cream over top. Dot with butter; sprinkle with remaining salt and bread crumbs. Bake, uncovered, at 350 for 25-30 minutes or until cauliflower is tender. Garnish with parsley if desired.