Description

A simple, high-heat roasted cauliflower recipe that yields golden-brown, crispy-edged florets coated in savory parmesan cheese. This kid-approved side dish is ready in under an hour and requires only five core ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large head cauliflower (about 2.5 lbs / 1.1 kg), cut into bite-sized florets
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a half-sheet baking pan with parchment paper.
Cut the cauliflower into uniform, bite-sized florets (approx. 1.5 inches). Chop the stem into small pieces as well.
Pat the cauliflower florets completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Spread the florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
Roast for 20 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure even browning.
Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the hot cauliflower.
Return to the oven and roast for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool for 2 minutes to allow the cheese to crisp up. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not crowd the pan, as overcrowding causes steaming instead of roasting. Always grate your own Parmesan cheese, as pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting and crisping. Pat the cauliflower dry thoroughly before roasting to remove excess moisture. If your oven runs hot, check the cheese after 4 minutes to prevent burning.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
Calories: 180
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 450
Fat: 12
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 12
Fiber: 3
Protein: 8

Keywords: roasted cauliflower, parmesan cauliflower, crispy vegetables, weeknight dinner, healthy side dish, gluten-free side, low carb side