Roasted Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower Recipe

Introduction

Roasted Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower is a flavorful and crispy vegetable dish that’s perfect as a side or a snack. Coated with a savory parmesan and breadcrumb crust, this cauliflower is roasted to golden perfection for a deliciously satisfying bite.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, firm and not floppy
• 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• Black pepper, to taste
• Oil spray (preferably olive oil)
• Finely chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan, the sand-like type
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) for a standard oven, or 180°C (350°F) if using fan or convection mode.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, dried oregano or thyme, paprika, and black pepper to create the crust mixture.
3. Step 3: Break the cauliflower into large florets. Cut extra-large florets into 1.5cm (about 3/5 inch) thick slices, and medium florets in half, aiming for a large, flat surface for the crust to stick to.
4. Step 4: Line a 30×40 cm (12×16 inch) baking tray with parchment paper.
5. Step 5: Drizzle olive oil over the lined tray and use a piece of cauliflower to spread the oil evenly across the paper.
6. Step 6: Evenly sprinkle the crust mixture over the oiled tray. Avoid disturbing the mixture after spreading it.
7. Step 7: Place the cauliflower pieces onto the crust mixture, pressing lightly so the crust sticks. Make sure to leave a small gap between pieces to prevent steaming and sogginess.
8. Step 8: Spray the cauliflower generously with oil and add a light sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
9. Step 9: Bake for 20 minutes until the crust turns a deep golden color.
10. Step 10: Using tongs, carefully turn the cauliflower so the crusted side faces up. Bake for an additional 5 minutes to crisp it further.
11. Step 11: Serve immediately, garnished with finely chopped parsley or another fresh herb if you like.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or chili flakes to the crust mixture.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for the best texture and taste.
• Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier crust than regular breadcrumbs; substitute with gluten-free panko if needed.
• If you prefer, swap dried oregano with thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note.

Storage

Store any leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in an oven or toaster oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8-10 minutes to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cut cauliflower florets for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cut florets work fine, but for best results, cut larger pieces to create a flat surface so the crust adheres well.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts like almonds or pecans.

Roasted Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 105 reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Roasted Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower recipe features tender cauliflower florets coated in a crunchy, flavorful parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust, then roasted to golden perfection. It’s an easy, delicious side dish that combines crispy textures with savory spices for a delightful vegetable treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cauliflower

• 1 large head of cauliflower (firm, not old and floppy)

Crust Mixture

• 1/2 cup / 50g grated parmesan (the sand-like type)
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Other

• 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• Oil spray (olive oil recommended)
• Black pepper (optional, for sprinkling)
• Finely chopped parsley (for garnish, if desired)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) for standard ovens or 180°C (350°F) if using a fan/convection oven to ensure even roasting.
2. Mix Crust: In a small bowl, combine the grated parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, dried oregano or thyme, paprika, and black pepper to create the crust mixture.
3. Prepare Cauliflower: Break the cauliflower into large florets. Cut very large florets into approximately 1.5cm (3/5 inch) thick slices, and halve medium florets to provide large flat surfaces for the crust to adhere.
4. Prepare Baking Tray: Line a 30 x 40 cm (12 x 16 inch) baking tray with parchment paper. Drizzle the tray with olive oil and spread it evenly over the paper using the cauliflower pieces for coverage.
5. Apply Crust Mixture: Evenly sprinkle the crust mixture over the oiled baking tray but avoid touching or disturbing it once scattered to maintain distribution.
6. Place Cauliflower: Arrange the cauliflower pieces crust-side down onto the crust mixture, pressing lightly to help the crust stick. Keep a small gap between the florets to prevent steaming and sogginess.
7. Oil and Season: Generously spray the cauliflower with olive oil spray and optionally sprinkle with black pepper for additional seasoning.
8. Initial Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the crust turns a deep golden brown.
9. Flip Cauliflower: Using tongs, carefully turn each cauliflower piece so the crusted side faces up.
10. Final Bake: Bake for an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the crust side further.
11. Serve: Serve the cauliflower hot, sprinkled with finely chopped parsley or your choice of fresh herbs if desired for a fresh finish.

Notes

• Use the sand-like grated parmesan for best adhesion and texture in the crust.
• Panko breadcrumbs create a crisp crumb coating; regular breadcrumbs will result in a softer crust.
• Do not overcrowd cauliflower florets on the baking tray to avoid steaming and sogginess.
• Oil spray helps achieve a golden, crispy crust without excess oil.
• Allow the cauliflower to bake in two stages for optimal crust browning and crispness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: roasted cauliflower, parmesan crust, crispy cauliflower, baked vegetable side, easy vegetable recipe