Baked Cauliflower with Garlic, Paprika, and Parmesan Recipe
This Baked Cauliflower recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy cauliflower with a crispy, golden finish. Tossed with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and optionally finished with Parmesan cheese, this dish is perfect as a healthy snack or a flavorful side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower
- 1 head of cauliflower, chopped into bite-sized florets
Seasoning & Oil
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Optional Topping
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a high heat environment that will create a nicely roasted, crispy cauliflower.
- Prepare Your Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and then sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss well using your hands or tongs until the florets are evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Spread and Roast: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer without overlapping to ensure even roasting on all sides.
- Bake to Perfection: Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the florets halfway through cooking so they brown evenly. You’re aiming for crisp edges and a golden-brown color.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of baking so it melts and crisps up beautifully.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the baked cauliflower hot directly from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with dips such as ranch or garlic aioli for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to cut the cauliflower into similar sized florets for even cooking.
- For extra crispness, do not overcrowd the baking sheet.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and aid in easy cleanup.
- Adjust seasoning quantities according to your taste preferences.
- The optional Parmesan adds a nutty and cheesy finish but can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be reheated but may lose some crispness.
Keywords: baked cauliflower, roasted cauliflower, healthy side dish, easy vegetable recipe, low fat side, vegetarian
