A simple yet flavorful side dish, this crispy Parmesan roasted cauliflower is perfectly seasoned with garlic, lemon, and a crunchy Parmesan coating. It’s a delicious and easy way to elevate cauliflower into a dish that pairs well with any meal.
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
¼ cup olive oil
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Add the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cauliflower, tossing until everything is well mixed and the florets are fully coated.
Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden and crispy.
Remove from the oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve immediately as a tasty side dish.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: 180 kcal
Variations
Spicy Kick: I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for some heat.
Cheesy Upgrade: Mixing in a little shredded mozzarella or cheddar with the Parmesan creates an even cheesier crust.
Herb-Infused: Fresh thyme or rosemary can add extra aroma and flavor to this dish.
Panko Crunch: For extra crunch, I sometimes mix in a couple of tablespoons of panko breadcrumbs with the Parmesan.
Vegan Option: Using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan gives a similar cheesy flavor without dairy.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, I reheat the cauliflower in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or in an air fryer for a few minutes. The microwave works, but it softens the texture.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the cauliflower tends to become mushy when thawed.
FAQs
How do I make the cauliflower extra crispy?
To get the crispiest texture, I make sure to spread the florets in a single layer on the baking sheet with enough space between them. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of roasting.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but I thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before roasting to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispier texture.
What can I serve with crispy Parmesan roasted cauliflower?
I often serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pasta. It also makes a great topping for grain bowls or salads.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a mix of different cheeses work well for a similar crispy and savory effect.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! I air fry the cauliflower at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Conclusion
This crispy Parmesan roasted cauliflower is a simple yet satisfying side dish that turns ordinary cauliflower into something truly delicious. With its crispy texture, bold flavors, and easy preparation, it’s a recipe I keep coming back to. Whether served as a side dish or a snack, it’s a guaranteed hit.
Recipe:
Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Parmesan roasted cauliflower is an easy, flavorful side dish with a golden, crunchy coating. Seasoned with garlic, lemon, and Parmesan, this roasted cauliflower recipe is the perfect way to elevate a simple vegetable into a delicious, restaurant-quality dish.
Ingredients
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
¼ cup olive oil
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Coat Cauliflower: In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil until evenly coated.
- Season: Add Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast: Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Finish: Remove from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice and fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately as a delicious side dish!
Notes
For Extra Crispiness: Ensure cauliflower florets are spaced apart on the baking sheet to prevent steaming.
Alternative Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor.
Vegan Option: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
Spicy Variation: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 180 kcal
