Name: Parmesan Cauliflower Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste

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These Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are one of my favorite go-to snacks when I want something savory and satisfying without the guilt. With just five simple ingredients, I can whip them up quickly and enjoy a crispy, cheesy treat that's both wholesome and seriously addictive. The cauliflower florets get a golden crust thanks to the Parmesan cheese, while garlic powder and olive oil add that extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients

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

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or giving it a light spray of cooking oil.

In a large bowl, I toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until they’re well-coated.

I then spread them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

I sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the cauliflower.

I bake for 25–30 minutes, giving them a stir halfway through to make sure they crisp up evenly.

Once they're golden and crispy, I pull them out of the oven and serve them right away.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, so I have a delicious snack or appetizer ready in just 40 minutes. Each serving comes in at around 150 kcal, making it a lighter option I don’t feel guilty about enjoying.

Variations

When I want to switch things up, I add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a kick of heat. Sometimes I swap the Parmesan for nutritional yeast if I’m making a dairy-free version. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme after baking also adds a nice pop of color and flavor. And if I’m feeling indulgent, I pair these bites with a side of ranch or marinara sauce for dipping.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers (which is rare!), I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 5–7 minutes to get them crispy again. I try to avoid the microwave since it tends to make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, I’ve made them in the air fryer and they turn out super crispy. I cook them at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

I prefer fresh for the best texture, but if I only have frozen, I make sure to thaw and dry it thoroughly before baking to avoid sogginess.

What kind of Parmesan works best?

I use grated Parmesan from a block for the best flavor and melt. Pre-shredded can work in a pinch, but it doesn’t crisp up quite the same.

Are these keto-friendly?

Yes, these bites are low in carbs and fit perfectly into a keto diet, especially since there’s no breading involved.

Can I make them ahead of time?

I find they’re best fresh, but I can prep the cauliflower and season it in advance, then just bake when I’m ready to serve.

Conclusion

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a simple yet flavor-packed snack that I keep coming back to. They’re easy to make, great for any occasion, and a clever way to enjoy more veggies. Whether I’m looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a light snack just for me, these crispy bites always deliver.

Recipe:

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a crispy, cheesy, and savory low-carb snack or appetizer made with just five simple ingredients. Perfect for gluten-free and keto diets, these baked cauliflower bites are packed with flavor from Parmesan and garlic, making them an addictive and wholesome choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray with cooking oil.
In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Spread cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the cauliflower.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.