Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

Introduction

Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a simple and satisfying side dish featuring tender cauliflower florets coated in a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb crust. Roasted to golden perfection, this recipe delivers a deliciously crunchy texture that’s perfect alongside your favorite main courses.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the cauliflower is evenly coated.
3. Step 3: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs (if using) to the cauliflower and toss again, ensuring the florets are well coated with the cheese mixture.
4. Step 4: Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan for optimal crisping.
5. Step 5: Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Tips & Variations

• Dry the cauliflower florets thoroughly with paper towels before tossing with oil to help achieve extra crispiness.
• Try adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
• For a gluten-free option, omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free alternatives.

Storage

Let the roasted cauliflower cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To revive crispiness, reheat in a single layer in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for a few minutes. While reheated cauliflower may not be as crispy as fresh, it remains delicious and makes for a convenient leftover side.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower?

While fresh cauliflower delivers the best texture, you can use frozen in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it super dry with paper towels before roasting. Excess moisture prevents crisping and can lead to steamed cauliflower instead of crispy florets.

How do I get the Parmesan cheese to stick to the cauliflower?

Coat the cauliflower evenly with olive oil and seasonings first; the oil acts like glue for the Parmesan. Toss the florets with the cheese and press the cheese gently onto the cauliflower to help it adhere. Adding breadcrumbs with the Parmesan can also help enhance crispiness and keep the cheese in place.

Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 84 reviews

Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a deliciously golden, tender, and crunchy vegetable side dish featuring cauliflower florets coated in olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and savory spices, then oven-roasted to perfection. This easy-to-make recipe offers a flavorful way to enjoy cauliflower as a snack or accompaniment to your favorite main courses.

• Author: Rami
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cauliflower

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets

Seasonings and Coating

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier.
2. Toss Cauliflower with Oil and Spices: In a large bowl, add the cauliflower florets and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the cauliflower. Toss thoroughly to ensure each floret is evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
3. Add Parmesan and Breadcrumbs: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and optional breadcrumbs to the bowl. Toss again gently, making sure the cauliflower florets are well coated with the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, which helps create a crispy crust.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the florets to allow for optimal crisping during roasting.
5. Roast Cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Midway through cooking, flip the florets carefully to encourage even browning. Roast until the cauliflower is tender inside and golden brown with a crispy exterior.

Notes

• For longer storage, let the roasted cauliflower cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To revive the crispiness, reheat the cauliflower in a single layer in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for a few minutes.
• Serve immediately as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, fish, or as a flavorful topping for salads.
• Dry the cauliflower florets thoroughly with paper towels before tossing with oil; this helps achieve extra crispiness during roasting.

Keywords: cauliflower recipe, roasted cauliflower, crispy Parmesan cauliflower, easy vegetable side dish, healthy roasted vegetables