This Baked Cauliflower recipe is a delicious, crispy, and flavorful dish that rivals even your favorite meat-based meals! With a golden-brown crust and tender interior, these cauliflower florets are perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a main course. Packed with aromatic spices and optional Parmesan cheese for extra crispiness, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- 1 medium head of cauliflower , cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crispiness)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower
- Wash and dry the cauliflower thoroughly. Cut it into bite-sized florets, discarding the tough core. Place the florets in a large mixing bowl.
3. Season the Cauliflower
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil , garlic powder , smoked paprika , onion powder , dried oregano , salt , and black pepper .
- Drizzle the seasoning mixture over the cauliflower florets. Toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
4. Add Parmesan (Optional)
- If using, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned cauliflower and toss again. The cheese will help create a crispy, golden crust during baking.
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet
- Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even roasting and crispiness.
6. Bake
- Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes , flipping the florets halfway through cooking. The cauliflower should be tender on the inside and golden-brown and crispy on the outside.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
Tips for Success
- Extra Crispiness: For an even crispier texture, broil the cauliflower for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, tzatziki, marinara, or sriracha mayo for an extra burst of flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Cauliflower is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier, plant-based dish without sacrificing flavor or texture. The combination of aromatic spices and optional Parmesan creates a satisfying crunch, while the tender cauliflower inside makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, snack, or main course, this recipe is versatile, easy to make, and packed with goodness.
Indulge in this golden, crispy delight—it’s proof that vegetables can be just as exciting as any meat dish!
