Baked Cauliflower with Garlic and Parmesan Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
