Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

This Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful side dish that’s incredibly easy to make. Tossed with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, the cauliflower caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a golden-brown, crunchy texture. Whether you serve it as a snack, side dish, or part of a healthy meal, this roasted cauliflower will be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy and flavorful – Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower with a crunchy Parmesan coating.
  • Healthy and low-carb – A nutritious, keto-friendly side dish packed with vitamins.
  • Easy to make – Just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
  • Pairs well with everything – Great with chicken, fish, or as a stand-alone snack.
  • Customizable – Add spices, lemon, or herbs for extra flavor.

Ingredients

Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower 10 This Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful side dish that’s incredibly easy to make. Tossed with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, the cauliflower caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a golden-brown, crunchy texture. Whether you serve it as a snack, side dish, or part of a healthy meal, this roasted cauliflower will be a hit!

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

  • Cauliflower (cut into florets)
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Salt & black pepper
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets and place in a large bowl.
  3. Season: Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  4. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower and toss again.
  5. Roast: Spread the florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
  • Lemon Zest: Sprinkle fresh lemon zest before serving for a bright, citrusy touch.
  • Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella in the last 5 minutes of baking.
  • Herb Infused: Toss with fresh thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
  • Air Fryer Version: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.

Storage & Reheating

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for a crispy texture.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may become mushy.

FAQs

Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower 11 This Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful side dish that’s incredibly easy to make. Tossed with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, the cauliflower caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a golden-brown, crunchy texture. Whether you serve it as a snack, side dish, or part of a healthy meal, this roasted cauliflower will be a hit!

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes! Roast frozen cauliflower without thawing but increase baking time by 5-10 minutes.

How do I make the cauliflower extra crispy?

Use less oil and spread florets in a single layer to avoid steaming.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?

Yes, but freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a richer flavor.

What dipping sauces pair well with this?

Try ranch, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Can I add breadcrumbs for extra crunch?

Absolutely! Toss cauliflower with panko breadcrumbs for added crispiness.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s naturally low-carb and keto-approved.

How do I prevent cauliflower from becoming mushy?

Avoid overcrowding the pan and roast at high heat (425°F/220°C).

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version.

What main dishes pair well with Parmesan roasted cauliflower?

It’s great with grilled chicken, salmon, steak, or pasta.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prep and season the cauliflower, then store in the fridge until ready to roast.

Conclusion

This Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a quick, easy, and flavorful side dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. With a crispy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it alongside your favorite meal or enjoy it as a delicious snack!

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Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This crispy roasted cauliflower is coated with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked until golden brown. It’s an easy, delicious way to enjoy cauliflower with tons of flavor and crunch!


Ingredients

Units Scale

1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets

3 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving (Optional):

Lemon wedges (for a fresh squeeze of citrus)

Ranch or garlic aioli (for dipping)


Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Season the Cauliflower

  1. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Add Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, tossing again to coat evenly.

Step 3: Roast

  1. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet.
  2. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve

 

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with lemon wedges or dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
  • Make it spicy: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.

 

  • Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or air fryer to crisp up.

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