Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower: A Deliciously Savory Side Dish

A Crispy, Cheesy, and Flavorful Cauliflower Recipe

There’s something magical about transforming simple cauliflower into a crispy, cheesy, and garlicky delight. Whether you’re searching for a savory side dish, a low-carb alternative to fries, or a flavorful snack, Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower is the answer.

This recipe delivers golden-brown, oven-roasted cauliflower florets coated in a rich garlic butter and a crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb topping. The best part? It’s baked, not fried, so you get all the crispiness without excess oil!

Let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that will turn even the biggest cauliflower skeptics into fans.

Ingredients for Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create this delicious dish:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Cauliflower head	1 medium
Butter, melted	½ cup
Garlic cloves, minced	2
Italian or plain breadcrumbs	1 cup
Parmesan cheese, grated	½ cup
Salt	¼ tsp
Black pepper	¼ tsp

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Ingredient	Quantity
Red pepper flakes (for spice)	¼ tsp
Fresh parsley (for garnish)	2 tbsp, chopped
Lemon zest (for brightness)	½ tsp
Smoked paprika (for depth)	½ tsp

How to Make Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower

1. Prepare the Cauliflower

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
• Remove the outer leaves and core from the cauliflower.
• Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and place them in a large mixing bowl.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Coating

• In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter.
• Stir in the minced garlic to infuse the butter with flavor.

3. Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating

• In a separate bowl, combine:
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper
• Stir the mixture until well combined.

4. Coat the Cauliflower

• Pour the garlic butter over the cauliflower florets and toss until evenly coated.
• Add the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture and toss again until each floret is fully covered.

5. Roast to Perfection

• Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
• Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through for even crispiness.
• The cauliflower is ready when it’s golden brown and crispy on the edges.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
• Serve hot as a side dish, appetizer, or healthy snack!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Recipe

✅ Crispy and Flavorful – Perfectly roasted with a crunchy coating.
✅ Healthier Than Fried Alternatives – Baked, not fried.
✅ Quick & Easy to Make – Ready in under 40 minutes.
✅ Kid-Approved – A fun way to sneak in veggies.
✅ Versatile – Works as a side dish, snack, or appetizer.

Health Benefits of Cauliflower

1. Rich in Nutrients

Cauliflower is high in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it great for immune health.

2. Supports Digestion

The fiber in cauliflower promotes a healthy gut and digestion.

3. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly

This dish is a perfect alternative to fries for those following a low-carb diet.

4. Packed with Antioxidants

Garlic and cauliflower contain powerful compounds that help reduce inflammation.

How to Customize Your Roasted Cauliflower

1. Make It Spicier

• Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

2. Try Different Cheeses

• Swap Parmesan for cheddar, feta, or Gruyère for a unique twist.

3. Experiment with Seasonings

• Use Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or lemon zest for a different flavor profile.

4. Make It Gluten-Free

• Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or almond flour.

Best Ways to Serve Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower

🍽 As a Side Dish – Serve with grilled chicken, steak, or salmon.
🥗 With a Fresh Salad – Complements a Caesar or Greek salad beautifully.
🍕 As a Pizza Alternative – A great low-carb swap for garlic bread.
🥑 In a Wrap or Bowl – Add to a grain bowl with quinoa, avocado, and chickpeas.

Storage and Reheating Tips

1. Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

2. Freezing

• Flash freeze the roasted cauliflower on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

3. Reheating

• Oven: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Not recommended (it will become soft).

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~180 kcal
Protein	6g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	12g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	250mg

This crispy, cheesy cauliflower dish is a nutrient-rich, low-carb alternative to fried snacks!

FAQs About Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but thaw and pat dry before roasting to prevent excess moisture.

2. How do I make my cauliflower extra crispy?

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
• Roast at 425°F instead of 400°F for an extra-crispy texture.

3. What dipping sauces go well with this dish?

Try it with:

• Ranch dressing
• Garlic aioli
• Marinara sauce
• Honey mustard

4. Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! Air-fry at 375°F for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

5. Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Coat the cauliflower in advance, then roast when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts: A Crispy, Cheesy, and Savory Cauliflower Dish

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and healthier alternative to fried foods, Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower is a must-try! Whether you serve it as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite.

So why wait? Try this recipe today and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness of roasted cauliflower!

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