Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Bites
Description
These crispy parmesan roasted cauliflower bites are tender on the inside, golden and crunchy on the outside, and bursting with savory garlic-parmesan flavor. They make an easy appetizer, side dish, or healthy snack—ready in under 30 minutes. No deep frying needed; the oven does all the work.
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
For the Parmesan Coating
½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crispiness)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
For Garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan (optional)
Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
1. Prep the Cauliflower
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Rinse cauliflower and pat dry completely (dry florets = crispier bites).
2. Season
In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with:
olive oil
salt
pepper
garlic powder
paprika
3. Add Parmesan Coating
In a separate bowl, mix:
Parmesan
breadcrumbs
Italian seasoning
Sprinkle this mix over the cauliflower and toss until evenly coated.
Tip: Press some coating onto the florets with your fingers for extra crispiness.
4. Bake
Spread florets in a single layer on the baking sheet (space prevents steaming).
Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
They are done when:
Golden brown
Crispy edges
Fork-tender inside
5. Serve
Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley.
Optional: Squeeze with fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Tips for Best Results
High heat = maximum golden crisp.
Use freshly grated Parmesan, not pre-shredded (it melts and crisps better).
If you want even more crunch, add an extra tablespoon of panko.
For a keto version: skip the breadcrumbs (still delicious!).
Variations
Spicy Version
Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
Extra Garlic
Add 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic in addition to the garlic powder.
Lemon Herb
Toss roasted bites with lemon zest + parsley after baking.
Cheesy Melt
Add ¼ cup mozzarella over the top in the last 5 minutes of baking.
Serving Ideas
As a snack with marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli
As a side dish for chicken, steak, or salmon
Tossed into salads or grain bowls
As a low-carb appetizer for parties
FAQ — Questions & Answers
Q1: How do I keep the cauliflower crispy?
A: Dry the cauliflower completely, roast at high heat, and avoid crowding the baking sheet.
Q2: Can I make these in an air fryer?
A: Yes! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
Q3: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: You can cut and season the cauliflower beforehand, but bake right before serving for best crispiness.
Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes—use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.
Q5: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
A: It’s not recommended because frozen cauliflower releases water and becomes soggy. If you must use it, thaw and dry thoroughly first.
Q6: What dipping sauces go well with these?
A: Garlic aioli, ranch, sriracha mayo, marinara, or pesto.