Baked cauliflower Recipe
A simple and delicious recipe for baked cauliflower florets roasted to golden crispiness with garlic, paprika, and optional Parmesan cheese. This versatile side dish is easy to prepare, healthy, and perfect for a quick snack or accompaniment.
- Author: Hannah
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking/Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Cauliflower
- 1 head of cauliflower, chopped into bite-sized florets
Seasonings and Oil
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to achieve high heat that will help the cauliflower develop a golden and crispy texture.
- Prepare Your Cauliflower: In a bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until everything is evenly coated using your hands or tongs.
- Spread and Roast: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then spread the cauliflower florets out in a single layer without overlapping to ensure even roasting.
- Bake to Perfection: Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, turning the florets once halfway through. Look for crisp edges and a nice golden color as a sign of doneness.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it on the cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of baking so it melts and crisps up delightfully.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the baked cauliflower hot from the oven, complemented with a dip such as ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a higher smoke point if preferred.
- To add extra crunch, sprinkle a tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs over the cauliflower before roasting.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or ranch dip.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm the cauliflower in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 100g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: baked cauliflower, roasted cauliflower, healthy side dish, easy vegetable recipe, Parmesan cauliflower, gluten free side