Cauliflower has never tasted this good! Imagine thick, hearty cauliflower steaks coated in a crispy, golden Parmesan crust, seasoned with garlic, paprika, and a touch of spice. These Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks are not just a side dish—they’re the star of the plate.
Perfect for a meatless meal, a healthy snack, or a flavorful side, this recipe delivers rich umami flavor, crunchy texture, and satisfying bite. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a cauliflower lover, or just looking for a unique way to enjoy veggies, this dish will impress you. Plus, the creamy avocado dip adds a refreshing balance to the crispy cauliflower.
Let’s dive into this easy, delicious, and healthy recipe!
Why You’ll Love Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks
This recipe is packed with bold flavors and an irresistible texture. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Crispy and Cheesy – Parmesan creates a golden, crunchy crust.
- Easy and Simple – Made with a handful of pantry ingredients in just 30 minutes.
- Healthy and Nutritious – High in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Perfect for Any Meal – Enjoy as a main dish, side, or snack.
- Paired with Creamy Avocado Dip – A refreshing and zesty addition.
Now, let’s gather the ingredients!
Ingredients for Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks
Cauliflower Steaks
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower head | 1 |
| Olive oil | ¼ cup |
| Grated Parmesan | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Paprika | ½ tsp |
| Onion powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Chili pepper flakes | ¼ tsp |
| Freshly grated Parmesan (for coating) | ½ cup |
Optional Garnish
- Fresh chives, chopped
Avocado Dip
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Avocado, halved | 1 |
| Scallions, rough chopped | 2 |
| Lime, juiced | ½ |
| Jalapeño, deseeded & rough chopped | 1 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast) | 1 tbsp |
| Parsley | ¼ cup |
| Water | ⅓ cup |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
- Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower but keep the core intact.
- Slice the cauliflower into ¾-inch thick steaks (you should get about 2–3 steaks per head).
2. Preheat and Season
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and chili flakes.
- Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks with the seasoned oil mixture.
3. Coat with Parmesan
- Sprinkle 2 tbsp grated Parmesan over the cauliflower, pressing gently so it sticks.
- Flip and repeat on the other side.
4. Bake Until Crispy
- Place the cauliflower steaks on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Sprinkle with ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan in the last 5 minutes of baking for extra crispiness.
5. Make the Avocado Dip
- Blend avocado, scallions, lime juice, jalapeño, olive oil, Parmesan, parsley, and water until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish the cauliflower steaks with fresh chives.
- Serve immediately with the creamy avocado dip.
Health Benefits of Cauliflower Steaks
1. Rich in Fiber and Antioxidants
Cauliflower supports digestion, gut health, and reduces inflammation.
2. High in Vitamins C and K
Great for immune support and bone health.
3. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly
Perfect for low-carb and keto diets while still feeling hearty and satisfying.
4. Packed with Healthy Fats
The avocado dip provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Best Ways to Serve Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks
This dish is versatile and pairs well with various meals. Try serving it with:
- Grilled Chicken or Fish – A light, balanced meal.
- Quinoa or Rice – A hearty, plant-based bowl.
- Roasted Vegetables – For a colorful, nutrient-packed plate.
- Pasta or Zoodles – A delicious Italian-style dish.
Tips for the Perfect Cauliflower Steaks
1. Cut Evenly for Even Cooking
Use a sharp knife to slice the cauliflower into even-sized steaks.
2. Don’t Skip the Parmesan Coating
This creates the crispy, golden crust that makes these steaks so irresistible!
3. Flip Carefully
Use a spatula and tongs to flip without breaking the steaks.
4. Roast at High Temperature
Baking at 425°F (220°C) ensures a crispy texture without making the cauliflower mushy.
5. Customize the Spices
Add curry powder, cumin, smoked paprika, or Italian herbs for different flavor variations.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storage
- Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as cauliflower loses texture when frozen.
Reheating
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes to crisp up again.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes.
- Microwave: Use short bursts, but note that it will soften.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 3g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make these cauliflower steaks in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Parmesan, Cheddar, or Gruyère work best for crispy texture and rich flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and skip the egg wash.
4. How do I keep cauliflower steaks from falling apart?
Leave the core intact when slicing to help hold the steaks together.
5. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh is best, but if using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before roasting.
6. What other dips pair well with this dish?
Try garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or classic hummus.
Final Thoughts: Try These Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks Today!
If you’re looking for a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish, these Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks are a must-try! With a golden crust, tender interior, and bold seasonings, they’re the perfect meatless meal or side dish.
Pair them with the creamy avocado dip for an extra layer of deliciousness. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these cauliflower steaks will impress everyone!
Ready to give them a try? Make them today and enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying meal!
Print
Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks: A Flavorful and Healthy Delight
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
Description
These Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy cauliflower. Coated in a savory Parmesan crust and roasted to golden perfection, these cauliflower steaks are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Paired with a creamy avocado dip, they make a perfect vegetarian main dish, snack, or flavorful side.
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Steaks:
- 1 large cauliflower head
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp chili pepper flakes
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan (for coating)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh chives, chopped
For the Avocado Dip:
- 1 ripe avocado, halved
- 2 scallions, roughly chopped
- ½ lime, juiced
- 1 jalapeño, deseeded and roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
- ⅓ cup water
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
- Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower, keeping the core intact.
- Slice the cauliflower into ¾-inch thick steaks (about 2–3 steaks per head).
2. Preheat and Season
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and chili flakes.
- Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks with the seasoned oil mixture.
3. Coat with Parmesan
- Sprinkle 2 tbsp grated Parmesan over the cauliflower, pressing gently so it sticks.
- Flip and repeat on the other side.
4. Bake Until Crispy
- Place the cauliflower steaks on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Sprinkle with ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan in the last 5 minutes of baking for extra crispiness.
5. Make the Avocado Dip
- Blend avocado, scallions, lime juice, jalapeño, olive oil, Parmesan, parsley, and water until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish the cauliflower steaks with fresh chives.
- Serve immediately with the creamy avocado dip.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Vegetarian