Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

Introduction

If you’re hunting for a dish that perfectly balances crunch and flavor, Crispy Roasted Cauliflower is about to become your new favorite side or snack! This easy recipe turns humble cauliflower into a golden, crispy delight with just a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower, then cut it into medium-sized florets for even cooking.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, toss the florets with olive oil to coat them evenly. Sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the cauliflower and mix until well distributed.
4. Step 4: Toss in the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using). Stir well to ensure the florets are evenly coated with the crumbly mixture.
5. Step 5: Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between the florets to maximize crispiness.
6. Step 6: Place in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden, crispy, and tender in the center.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy hot as a snack, side, or part of a bigger spread!

Tips & Variations

• Try regular breadcrumbs if you don’t have panko on hand, or omit Parmesan for a vegan version—nutritional yeast adds a similar cheesy flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; spacing florets ensures even roasting and maximum crunch.
• Flip the cauliflower halfway through roasting to get an even golden color on all sides.
• Add some chili flakes or cayenne with the spices if you want a spicy kick.
• Check your oven a few minutes early, as cooking times can vary to avoid burning the breadcrumbs.

Storage

Store any leftover Crispy Roasted Cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat in a single layer on a baking sheet in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-8 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy. You can also freeze roasted cauliflower, though it may lose some crunch; thaw overnight in the fridge and re-crisp in the oven before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the cauliflower florets and breadcrumb mixture a day ahead. Assemble and roast just before serving for the best crunch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As written, it is not gluten-free because of the panko breadcrumbs. However, you can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 148 reviews

Crispy Roasted Cauliflower is a simple and delicious side dish that transforms humble cauliflower florets into a golden, crunchy delight. Coated with olive oil, seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic powder, and topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs and optional Parmesan cheese, this recipe is perfect as a snack, an appetizer, or a complement to your favorite meals. Roasted in the oven to perfection, it offers a satisfying texture and rich flavor with minimal effort.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cauliflower

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets

Seasoning & Coating

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Crunchy Topping

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and dry it completely. Cut the head into medium-sized florets to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
3. Season and coat: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil until well coated. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the cauliflower and mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings.
4. Add the crunch: Toss in the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using). Stir well so that the cauliflower florets are evenly coated with the crispy breadcrumb mixture.
5. Arrange and roast: Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave space between florets to promote crispiness.
6. Roast to perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Flip the florets once halfway through cooking to achieve an even golden and crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the cauliflower to cool slightly. Enjoy it hot as a tasty snack, flavorful side dish, or part of a larger meal spread.

Notes

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat leftovers in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-8 minutes to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• For a vegan option, omit Parmesan cheese and optionally add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even roasting and maximum crispiness.
• Turn the florets halfway through roasting for an evenly browned crust.
• Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning for a spicy kick if desired.
• Keep an eye on roasting time as ovens vary, and remove a few minutes earlier if needed to prevent burning.

Keywords: Crispy Roasted Cauliflower, easy roasted cauliflower, baked cauliflower, vegetarian side dish, healthy snack, gluten-free option, vegan adaptation