Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a delicious way to enjoy cauliflower with a crunchy, golden-brown exterior and a cheesy, garlicky flavor. This recipe swaps frying for baking, making it a lighter, healthier option that’s perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack! Whether you bake or air fry, these cauliflower florets come out irresistible, with every bite packed with the goodness of Parmesan, garlic, and a hint of paprika.

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Why You’ll Love This Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower

• Healthier Option: By roasting or air frying instead of deep frying, you get a crispy texture with less oil and fewer calories.
• Simple and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want a quick snack.
• Versatile Flavors: Enjoy it as a side dish with meats or pasta, or add a drizzle of hot sauce to create a spicy snack reminiscent of hot wings.

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• Cauliflower: Choose a medium-sized head for fresh, firm florets that hold up well when baked or air fried.
• Butter or Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning and Parmesan adhere to the cauliflower while adding a rich flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic or garlic powder both work well to infuse each floret with robust, aromatic flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, cheesy coating that crisps up beautifully during roasting.
• Paprika and Black Pepper: Adds a mild warmth and depth, making every bite flavorful.

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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4

• 3-4 cups cauliflower florets
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil

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1. Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Prepare the Cauliflower

• Place cauliflower florets in a large bowl and toss them with melted butter or olive oil to coat each piece evenly.

3. Season the Cauliflower

• Add grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss gently to distribute the seasoning evenly over the cauliflower.

4. Bake

• Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower edges turn golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve

• Enjoy the roasted cauliflower hot from the oven as a side dish, or add your favorite sauce for extra flavor.

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1. Preheat Air Fryer

• Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.

2. Prepare for Air Frying

• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer, then spray the florets lightly with olive oil for enhanced crispiness.

3. Cook

• Air fry for about 20 minutes or until desired crispiness is achieved. For best results, flip the cauliflower halfway through the cooking time.

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Pro Tips for Perfectly Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

• Uniform Sizing: Cut cauliflower florets to a similar size to ensure even cooking.
• Extra Crunch: For an extra crispy texture, use panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
• Zip-Lock Coating: To save time, toss the florets with the seasoning in a zip-lock bag to ensure even coverage.
• Hot Sauce Variation: Add a few dashes of hot sauce before serving for a spicy, wing-like flavor.

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1. Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

• Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Thaw and pat it dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture that can prevent crispiness.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

• Store leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back some of the crispiness.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

• Yes! Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese to create a cheesy flavor without dairy.

4. Why is my cauliflower not crispy?

• Make sure the florets are well-coated with oil and spaced apart on the baking sheet or air fryer basket. Overcrowding can cause steaming, which makes them soft instead of crispy.

5. What sauces pair well with this cauliflower?

• Serve it with ranch dressing, marinara, or garlic aioli. For a spicy twist, drizzle hot sauce or buffalo sauce over the roasted cauliflower.

6. Can I add other vegetables?

• Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli work well with this recipe. Adjust cooking times as needed for different vegetables.

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This Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower recipe brings out the best in cauliflower, offering a crunchy, flavorful dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. Perfect for family dinners, snacks, or party appetizers, these roasted cauliflower florets are sure to be a hit. Experiment with toppings and seasonings to make this dish your own!