Description
Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Get ready to turn a humble vegetable into the star of your meal! This Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is baked to golden perfection with garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of paprika. It’s the ultimate side dish that pairs wonderfully with pasta, meats, or as a guilt-free snack. No frying here—just a healthier, flavor-packed way to enjoy cauliflower that’s irresistibly crunchy and tasty!
3-4 cups cauliflower florets
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp paprika
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp melted butter
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Coat cauliflower florets with melted butter.
3. Mix Parmesan, paprika, and pepper, and toss to coat.
4. Bake on a lined baking sheet for 20 min until crispy.
Prep Time: 10 min
Kcal: 120 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut one large head of cauliflower into uniform, bite-sized florets. In a large bowl, toss the florets thoroughly with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter, ensuring every piece is lightly coated. In a separate bowl, combine the ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Sprinkle this dry mixture over the buttered cauliflower and toss again until the florets are evenly and generously coated. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching for maximum crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are deeply golden brown and crispy. For extra crispness, you can broil for the final 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve it as a standout side with grilled chicken, steak, or baked salmon. For a vegetarian meal, toss it into a grain bowl with quinoa and a lemon-tahini dressing. It also makes a fantastic topping for a hearty salad or can be stirred into warm pasta with a little olive oil and extra Parmesan. Don’t forget it’s a delicious, healthy snack all on its own, perfect with a side of marinara or ranch for dipping.
How-to Summary
Cut cauliflower, toss with melted butter, then coat in a mix of Parmesan, paprika, and pepper. Bake at 425°F on a lined sheet for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
It’s not recommended. Frozen cauliflower releases too much water during baking, preventing the crispy texture that makes this recipe special.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or a 400°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness; microwaving will make it soggy.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese and use a high-heat oil like avocado oil instead of butter.
Why isn’t my cauliflower getting crispy?
The most common cause is overcrowding the pan. Ensure florets are in a single layer with space between them. Also, verify your oven is fully preheated.
Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely! Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or a pinch of cayenne for heat are all excellent additions to the Parmesan coating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: This steams the cauliflower instead of roasting it. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Using Pre-Grated Bagged Parmesan: These often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent proper crisping. Freshly grate your Parmesan for the best melt and texture.
- Skipping the Butter: The butter is crucial for helping the cheese and spices adhere and for promoting browning. Don’t substitute with a cooking spray for the same effect.
- Not Cutting Uniform Pieces: Uneven florets will cook at different rates, resulting in some burnt and some undercooked pieces.
Conclusion
This Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower recipe is a simple yet transformative way to enjoy a nutritious vegetable. With its golden, crunchy exterior and savory, cheesy flavor, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your side dish rotation. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Give it a try and watch this humble veggie disappear from the plate!