If you’re looking to add a new, flavorful, and healthy dish to your weeknight dinners, this Crispy Baked Cauliflower with Mozzarella & Parmesan is the perfect option. Combining the heartiness of roasted cauliflower with the rich taste of marinara, melted mozzarella, and crispy breadcrumbs, this dish is a vegetarian delight that even meat lovers will enjoy. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the texture of cauliflower while adding the comfort of Italian-inspired ingredients. The blend of spices gives this dish a boost of flavor, while the cheesy, golden crust makes every bite irresistible. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium cauliflower, broken into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) and preparing a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the cauliflower: Rinse and dry the cauliflower, then cut it into bite-sized florets. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Season the cauliflower: Drizzle the cauliflower florets with olive oil. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Roast the cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden and tender, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure even roasting.
- Add the marinara and cheese: Once the cauliflower is roasted, transfer it to a baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the cauliflower, tossing gently to coat all the florets.
- Top with breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil (this helps them crisp up in the oven).
- Bake until golden: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh basil over the top before serving for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Conclusion:
This Crispy Baked Cauliflower with Mozzarella & Parmesan is the perfect combination of wholesome ingredients and indulgent flavors. The cauliflower’s natural nuttiness pairs beautifully with the marinara sauce and cheesy crust, while the crispy panko adds a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s a fun way to introduce more veggies into your meals without sacrificing taste!