Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

This Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is the ultimate way to turn a humble veggie into a crowd-pleasing side dish or snack. Oven-roasted to perfection with a golden crust of parmesan cheese and garlic seasoning, each bite is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor—perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, or healthy snacking.

The first time I made Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower, I was trying to convince my daughter to eat more veggies—without begging or bargaining. I tossed some cauliflower with parmesan and garlic, roasted it until crispy, and hoped for the best. My husband walked in, grabbed one off the tray, and said, “Wait—this is cauliflower?” My daughter? She called them “cheesy veggie bites” and asked for seconds. Safe to say it’s become a go-to in our kitchen.

✔Ingredients Notes For Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

• Cauliflower Florets: Fresh, cut into bite-sized pieces for even roasting

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated works best for crisp texture

• Olive Oil: Helps everything roast up golden and flavorful

• Garlic Powder: For bold, savory flavor without burning

• Paprika (Optional): Adds subtle warmth and color

• Salt & Black Pepper: Basic but essential seasoning

• Fresh Parsley (Optional): For a fresh finish

✔Recipe Steps

1. Preheat Oven: Set to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.

2. Toss Cauliflower: In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add grated parmesan and toss again to coat.

3. Spread & Roast: Spread cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.

4. Serve: Sprinkle with more parmesan or fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot as a side or snack.

✔Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

• Reheat: Best reheated in the oven or air fryer for crispiness—avoid the microwave

• Freezer: Not ideal—the texture softens when thawed

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne

• Lemon Zest Finish: For a bright, citrusy pop

• Vegan Option: Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cauliflower? You can, but it won’t get as crispy—fresh is best for texture.

How do I keep it crispy? Don’t overcrowd the pan—give each piece space to roast instead of steam.

Can I add breadcrumbs? Yes! Panko mixed with parmesan adds even more crunch.

Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

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Course: Side Dish, Snack

Kitchen: American, Mediterranean-Inspired

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ 1 large head of cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
• ▢ 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ▢ ½ teaspoon salt
• ▢ ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional for extra flavor
• ▢ ½ cup 0.25 lbs grated Parmesan cheese
• ▢ 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Instructions

• Preheat Oven:
• Preheat to 425°F (220°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
• Season the Cauliflower:
• In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
• Add the grated Parmesan and toss again to coat the florets with the cheese.
• Roast:
• Spread cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
• Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
• Serve:
• Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving if desired.
• Serve hot as a side dish or enjoy it as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce!