This baked cauliflower recipe is a perfect balance of crispy edges and tender florets, roasted with a mix of aromatic spices, topped with savory Parmesan cheese, and finished off with a fresh sprinkle of parsley. Whether I enjoy it as a healthy snack or as a delightful side dish, this recipe never fails to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy this baked cauliflower recipe is to make, yet the flavors are rich and satisfying. The spices blend perfectly to enhance the natural flavor of the cauliflower, and the Parmesan adds a wonderful salty, nutty touch that perfectly complements the dish. It’s the ideal combination of health and flavor, making it a perfect addition to any meal or a quick snack. Plus, it’s gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by leaving out the Parmesan!
Ingredients
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the cauliflower. Toss again to evenly distribute the spices.
Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and the edges are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot cauliflower.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. This dish makes a great side or a healthy snack.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Variations
I love experimenting with different seasonings to keep this recipe exciting! You can add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder if I’m in the mood for a spicy kick. For a smoky flavor, I sometimes add smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. If I want a creamier dish, I can mix in a little bit of ranch seasoning or sour cream before serving.
Storage/Reheating
If I have any leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I simply place the cauliflower back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. For an extra crispy texture, I can pop it under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes.
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FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
Yes, I can use frozen cauliflower, though I find that fresh cauliflower works better for this recipe. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain the cauliflower to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this recipe without Parmesan?
Absolutely! If I want to make it dairy-free, I can omit the Parmesan or substitute it with a vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! I can prepare and roast the cauliflower ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just reheat it in the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley before serving.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
If I enjoy a bit of heat, I can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes along with the paprika for an extra spicy kick.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
I can definitely add other vegetables, like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the size and type of the vegetables.
Conclusion
This baked cauliflower recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful side dish or snack. With its crispy edges, tender texture, and savory Parmesan topping, it’s sure to be a hit every time. I love that it’s so versatile, and it’s one of those dishes that I can customize with my favorite spices and flavors. Whether I’m serving it at a family dinner or just enjoying it as a quick snack, this recipe never disappoints!
📖 Recipe:
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Baked Cauliflower
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This baked cauliflower recipe offers the perfect blend of crispy edges and tender florets, roasted with aromatic spices and topped with savory Parmesan cheese. Ideal as a healthy snack or a delightful side dish, it’s gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by omitting the cheese. Simple, flavorful, and versatile!
Ingredients
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the cauliflower and toss again to evenly distribute the spices.
- Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For an added kick, experiment with cayenne pepper or chili powder for extra spice.
If you want a smoky flavor, swap regular paprika for smoked paprika.
To make it dairy-free, simply leave out the Parmesan and try nutritional yeast as a cheesy substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Snack
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 150 kcal
