Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower, I was in need of a quick and tasty side dish that could elevate my weeknight dinners. I had just returned from the farmer’s market, arms full of fresh produce, including a gorgeous head of cauliflower. I wasn’t sure how to prepare it, but I knew I wanted something that would bring out its natural flavors. The thought of roasting it with cheese sounded mouthwatering. Little did I know, this dish would become a staple in my kitchen, bringing warmth and comfort to my family dinners.

Every time I make Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower, I’m reminded of cozy evenings spent around the dinner table, laughter mingling with the delicious aroma of roasting vegetables. It’s simple yet sophisticated, and it never fails to impress my guests. As the cauliflower roasts, the edges caramelize beautifully, creating a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the melted Parmesan cheese. You can even enjoy this dish as a main course or a hearty appetizer. Whether you’re having a casual family dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe fits seamlessly into any occasion.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! I love that I can prepare it quickly and still serve something that feels special. The flavors blend wonderfully, and the crispy topping adds a delightful texture. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. You might just find yourself craving it as much as I do!

Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Ingredients

Cooking is all about the ingredients. For this Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower, each component plays a crucial role. The star of the show is, of course, the cauliflower, which transforms into a deliciously tender and caramelized dish when roasted. The combination of extra-virgin olive oil, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese enhances the flavors and adds a lovely crunch. Together, they create a dish that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying.

• 1 head cauliflower – The main ingredient, it should be fresh and firm for best results.
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness and helps with roasting.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that gives the dish a wonderful flavor.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds a bit of heat and depth.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Provides a crispy, cheesy topping that’s irresistible.
• ¼ cup panko bread crumbs – These add an extra crunch to the topping.
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley – A fresh herb that brightens up the dish.

Cooking Method for Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

Cooking Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a straightforward process that only requires a few steps. You’ll find that it’s easy to follow and incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into the details to make this dish perfectly!

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. This high temperature is key to achieving that perfect roast.
2. Slice the head of the cauliflower in half from the top of the crown through to the stem. Be careful to cut evenly so they roast at the same rate. Remove the core of each half and discard the leaves.
3. Trim the cauliflower into florets. You can use your hands to break them apart or a knife for more precision. Aim for florets that are roughly the same size to ensure they cook evenly.
4. Scatter the florets on a high-sided baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss everything to coat the florets evenly.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, and parsley. This mixture will be your crunchy topping.
6. Lay the florets on the baking sheet in a single layer, cut side down. This positioning helps them caramelize beautifully.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them tender and starting to brown.
8. If you want them extra crispy, flip the florets halfway through the cooking time. This ensures all sides get that lovely golden color.
9. After 15 minutes, sprinkle the Parmesan mixture over the cauliflower and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
10. Once done, remove from the oven and serve warm. Be sure to scrape up all the little crispy bits from the pan; they are a treat!

Tips for Success

To make the most of your Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower, consider these tips:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers, but the texture may change upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. It also complements a hearty salad.
• Seasonal Options: Feel free to make this dish with seasonal vegetables for variety.
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.

Great Combinations for Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

Serving Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower can be as versatile as the dish itself. Here are some great combinations:

• As a Side Dish: This dish is perfect alongside roasted chicken or a light fish dish. Its cheesy, savory flavor complements meats beautifully.
• With a Salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
• For Lunch: Leftovers make a great addition to a lunch bowl. Just toss with some greens and a light dressing.
• Seasonal Feast: This makes a great addition to holiday dinners, especially in the fall.
• Snack Time: Serve it as a snack with a dipping sauce; it’s kid-friendly and delicious!

FAQ

Conclusion

The recipe for Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is special because it combines simplicity with flavor, making it a go-to dish for many occasions. I encourage you to try this delightful recipe and experience the comforting warmth it brings to your table. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

The ultimate comfort food, Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower delivers a delicious crunch with every bite. Roasted to perfection, this easy weeknight dinner offers crispy edges and gooey cheese that will have everyone coming back for more. Perfect for any occasion, you won't want to miss out on this scrumptious dish!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Oven
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 head Cauliflower
• 2 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup Panko bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon Minced fresh parsley

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 425°F. This high temperature is key to achieving that perfect roast.
• Slice the head of the cauliflower in half from the top of the crown through to the stem. Be careful to cut evenly so they roast at the same rate. Remove the core of each half and discard the leaves.
• Trim the cauliflower into florets. You can use your hands to break them apart or a knife for more precision. Aim for florets that are roughly the same size to ensure they cook evenly.
• Scatter the florets on a high-sided baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss everything to coat the florets evenly.
• In a small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, and parsley. This mixture will be your crunchy topping.
• Lay the florets on the baking sheet in a single layer, cut side down. This positioning helps them caramelize beautifully.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them tender and starting to brown.
• If you want them extra crispy, flip the florets halfway through the cooking time. This ensures all sides get that lovely golden color.
• After 15 minutes, sprinkle the Parmesan mixture over the cauliflower and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
• Once done, remove from the oven and serve warm. Be sure to scrape up all the little crispy bits from the pan; they are a treat!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers, but the texture may change upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. It also complements a hearty salad.
• Seasonal Options: Feel free to make this dish with seasonal vegetables for variety.
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.

Keyword Cauliflower recipe, Cheesy roasted cauliflower, Easy vegetable side dish, Healthy roasted cauliflower

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Meet Romina Scott

Welcome to my kitchen. I founded Recipes By Romina with a simple goal: to share the fresh, vibrant, and reliable flavors that I love most. I personally develop and approve every single dish on this site to ensure it is not only delicious but also easy for you to recreate at home. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dessert, I hope this recipe inspires you to grab an apron and get cooking!