Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

I take pride in my Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower recipe featuring tender florets tossed in olive oil and garlic powder, then layered with panko and Parmesan. Perfect for Dinner Ideas With Cauliflower, this dish offers a savory crunch with hints of parsley and freshly ground black pepper that beckon a try.

I’ve been experimenting in the kitchen lately and came across a recipe that really surprised me – Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower. I took 1 medium head of cauliflower and cut it into florets, then tossed it with 3 tbsp of olive oil until every piece was nicely coated.

After that, I mixed in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder along with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. The end result was a side dish that had the perfect balance of crunch and savory flavor, ideal for when you’re looking for something different for dinner or even as a tasty snack.

It instantly became one of my go-to recipes for a low-carb twist on roasted veggie dinner ideas. I might even sprinkle 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley on top if I’m feeling extra fancy.

Enjoy the flavor explosion!

Why I Like this Recipe

I really like this recipe because it’s super easy to prep and cook. I love that I can just toss the cauliflower in olive oil and seasonings without doing too much work, which means even on busy days I can whip it up without stress.

What really gets me is the crispy, cheesy crust that forms when the Parmesan and panko come together during roasting. It brings this awesome flavor and texture that makes every bite a little celebration.

Also, I feel good about eating it since it’s a healthy twist on a snack or side dish. The cauliflower gives me a nutritious boost and the spices just add the right amount of kick without being too overpowering.

Ingredients

• Cauliflower: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, low calorie and supports a healthy gut.
• Olive oil: Source of healthy fats that help absorb vitamins and add moisture.
• Parmesan cheese: Provides savory flavor, protein boost, and essential calcium for bones.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Offers a light, crunchy texture that enhances dishes without overpowering flavors.
• Garlic powder: Infuses a mild, aromatic garlic essence, balancing other ingredients effortlessly.
• Salt and Pepper: Elevate taste balance, enhancing the natural flavors of each element.
• Parsley: Adds freshness and color, cutting through the rich savory profile.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 1.5 lbs)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make this

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and get a baking sheet ready.

2. Break up the cauliflower into florets (you should get about
1.5 lbs) and put them in a large bowl.

3. Drizzle the olive oil over the cauliflower and toss it so all pieces are evenly coated.

4. Next, add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste; mix everything together.

5. In another bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese with the panko breadcrumbs.

6. Transfer the cauliflower to the baking sheet in a single layer so they roast evenly.

7. Sprinkle the Parmesan-panko mixture over the cauliflower, ensuring every floret gets some crispy goodness.

8. Pop it in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning.

9. Once they’re golden and crispy, take the tray out and sprinkle chopped parsley if you like.

10. Enjoy your dish while its still hot and crispy, perfect as a side or a snack!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven – used for roasting the cauliflower at a high temperature which maxes out the flavor and texture
2. Baking sheet – to spread out the cauliflower evenly for a crisp finish
3. Knife and cutting board – for breaking up the cauliflower into florets
4. Large mixing bowl – to toss the cauliflower in olive oil and spices
5. Medium mixing bowl – to combine the Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs evenly
6. Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate portions of olive oil, cheese, and spices
7. Spatula or tongs – to stir and turn the cauliflower when roasting, ensuring even cooking
8. Grater – only needed if you are grating a block of Parmesan cheese by yourself

FAQ

Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Olive oil: Try using melted butter or avocado oil for a different twist on the flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: You can swap it with pecorino romano or even nutritional yeast if you’re avoiding dairy.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Crush up some cornflakes or use homemade breadcrumbs from toasted bread as a substitute.
• Garlic powder: Fresh minced garlic works too, although you might need a little extra to match the flavor intensity.
• Salt: Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt can be used instead for a slightly different taste.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure all your cauliflower pieces are pretty much the same size so they cook evenly; uneven pieces might get burnt or end up underdone.
2. Don’t crowd the baking sheet. If the florets are too close together they’ll steam instead of get that crispy crunch you want.
3. Be sure to toss the cauliflower a couple of times while roasting to keep everything evenly crisp.
4. For a little extra kick, try drizzling a tiny bit of lemon juice or adding a bit more Parmesan right when you take them out; it really brings out the flavor.