Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a crispy, flavorful side dish that’s easy to make and packed with savory goodness. Roasting cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness while the combination of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs adds irresistible flavor. This dish pairs well with almost any meal and is perfect for a healthy yet satisfying side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & Flavorful – Roasting gives cauliflower a golden, slightly crispy texture.
• Simple & Easy – Just toss everything together and bake!
• Healthy & Low-Carb – A great alternative to starchy sides.
• Pairs with Any Meal – Perfect with chicken, steak, or seafood.
• Kid-Approved – Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, garlicky taste.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh cauliflower, cut into florets
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika (optional, for color)
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the cauliflower – In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread & Roast – Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
4. Serve & Enjoy – Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Extra Crispy – Toss with panko breadcrumbs before roasting.
• Lemon-Garlic Flavor – Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cauliflower before serving.
• Cheesy Upgrade – Mix in shredded mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
• Herb Blend – Use fresh thyme or rosemary for a gourmet touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as cauliflower can become soggy when thawed.
• Reheating: Warm in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for extra crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but thaw and pat dry before roasting to prevent sogginess.

How do I make it extra crispy?

Use a high oven temperature (425°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

What dipping sauces go well with this?

Ranch, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce make great pairings.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free option.

What’s the best way to cut cauliflower?

Remove the core and separate into even-sized florets for even roasting.

Can I roast this in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

How do I prevent burnt garlic?

Mix garlic into the oil before tossing with cauliflower, or add it halfway through roasting.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Cut the cauliflower and season it a day in advance, then roast when ready.

What main dishes go well with this?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, salmon, or pasta dishes.

Conclusion

Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a simple yet delicious side dish that turns a basic vegetable into something truly crave-worthy. With its crispy edges, garlicky flavor, and cheesy goodness, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any meal. Try it today and enjoy a healthy, flavorful twist on roasted cauliflower!

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