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Baked cauliflower Recipe

Baked cauliflower Recipe

5.1 from 14 reviews

This baked cauliflower recipe transforms simple cauliflower florets into a crispy, golden, and flavorful side dish. Tossed in olive oil, seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and optionally topped with nutty grated Parmesan cheese, it’s a quick and healthy way to enjoy a nutritious vegetable with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 head of cauliflower, chopped into bite-sized florets
  • 23 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – for that nutty, cheesy finish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is essential for achieving the golden, crispy texture on the cauliflower.
  2. Prepare Your Cauliflower: In a large bowl, place your cauliflower florets and drizzle them with 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss everything using your hands or tongs to ensure the florets are evenly coated with seasoning and oil.
  3. Spread and Roast: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer without overlapping, which ensures even roasting and crispiness.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cauliflower for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the florets once halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning. Look for crisp edges and a lovely golden hue as a sign of doneness.
  5. Add Cheese (Optional): If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it onto the cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the cheese to melt and crisp up beautifully on top.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the baked cauliflower hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with dips like ranch or garlic aioli for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

  • For best results, make sure the cauliflower pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
  • You can swap paprika with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
  • If you want a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan cheese.
  • Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder if desired, adjusting quantity for flavor intensity.
  • Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly before serving to let the crispiness set.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked cauliflower, roasted cauliflower, healthy side dish, easy vegetable recipe, crispy cauliflower