Baked Cauliflower with Garlic and Parmesan Recipe

Introduction

Baked cauliflower is a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With a crispy golden exterior and tender inside, it’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. This recipe highlights minimal ingredients for maximum taste.

Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower (chopped into bite-sized florets)
• 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional – for that nutty, cheesy finish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps achieve a golden, crispy texture.
2. Step 2: Place the cauliflower florets in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss with your hands or tongs until evenly coated.
3. Step 3: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer without overlapping to ensure even roasting.
4. Step 4: Roast the cauliflower for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Look for crisp edges and a golden color.
5. Step 5: If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of roasting. This allows the cheese to melt and crisp nicely.
6. Step 6: Serve the baked cauliflower hot from the oven. It pairs well with dips like ranch or garlic aioli.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley before serving.
• Try using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a subtle smoky twist.
• To make it vegan, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Storage

Store leftover baked cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread it on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the cauliflower soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Frozen cauliflower tends to release more moisture and may not crisp as well. Fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the cauliflower from becoming soggy?

Make sure to spread the florets in a single layer without overcrowding the baking sheet. Also, roasting at a high temperature helps evaporate moisture and achieve a crispy result.

Baked Cauliflower with Garlic and Parmesan Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 67 reviews

This simple baked cauliflower recipe transforms bite-sized florets into a crispy, golden, and flavorful side dish. Seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, and optionally topped with nutty Parmesan cheese, it’s perfect as a healthy snack or accompaniment to any meal.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower, chopped into bite-sized florets
• 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving a deliciously golden and crispy texture on your cauliflower.
2. Prepare Your Cauliflower: Place the chopped cauliflower florets into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss everything thoroughly with your hands or tongs until all florets are evenly coated with oil and spices.
3. Spread and Roast: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer without overlapping to ensure even roasting and crispiness on all sides.
4. Bake to Perfection: Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through the cooking time. Watch for crispy edges and a golden-brown hue as signs of doneness.
5. Add Cheese (Optional): If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the florets during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow it to melt and crisp beautifully without burning.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve hot. For extra flavor, pair with dips like ranch dressing or garlic aioli.

Notes

• Ensure cauliflower florets are uniformly sized for even cooking.
• Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; this can cause steaming instead of roasting.
• For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
• Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cumin or chili powder for different flavor profiles.

Keywords: baked cauliflower, roasted cauliflower, healthy side dish, crispy cauliflower, vegetarian recipe, easy oven roasted vegetables