Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

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Golden, crispy, and full of savory flavor, this Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is about to become your new favorite side dish or snack. Each floret is roasted to perfection—tender on the inside with a perfectly crunchy, cheesy crust on the outside. It’s a deliciously simple way to enjoy cauliflower, and it might just convert the veggie skeptics in your life.

This dish is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also low-carb, gluten-free, and easy to whip up with a handful of pantry staples. Whether you’re preparing it as a healthy snack, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a savory side to your favorite entrée, this roasted cauliflower recipe hits all the right notes.

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Why You’ll Love This Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

It’s the perfect combination of crispiness and cheesiness without deep frying or complicated steps. The edges of the cauliflower get beautifully browned and crunchy thanks to the Parmesan, while the inside stays moist and tender. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in extra veggies and it fits into keto, low-carb, and vegetarian diets.

This dish is incredibly versatile—you can serve it alongside your favorite proteins, add it to grain bowls, or just enjoy it with a dipping sauce. It also reheats well, making it ideal for meal prepping.

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What Kind of Parmesan Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese—not the pre-shredded kind from the bag or canister. Freshly grated Parmesan melts and crisps up more evenly, giving that irresistible golden crust. If you have access to Parmigiano-Reggiano, even better! It adds a deeper, nuttier flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted cauliflower.

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Ingredients for the Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

To bring out the best in this dish, each ingredient plays a unique role in creating that crispy, savory goodness.

• Cauliflower – The star of the show. Choose a firm, fresh head of cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets for even roasting.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps create that golden crispy crust.
• Olive Oil – Helps the Parmesan stick to the cauliflower and promotes even browning in the oven.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor with a rich, savory note.
• Paprika – Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the overall taste.
• Salt and Pepper – To season and balance all the other flavors perfectly.

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How To Make the Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a hot environment that helps the cauliflower roast and crisp up quickly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower

Wash and dry your cauliflower, then cut it into bite-sized florets. Drying is important to help the seasoning stick and prevent sogginess.

Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the florets with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan

Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan over the seasoned cauliflower and toss again until the florets are well covered.

Step 5: Arrange and Roast

Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the florets are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan.

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How to Serve and Store Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

This recipe serves about 4 people as a side dish or 2 if you’re serving it as a main veggie course. It’s best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven when the edges are at peak crispiness. If you’re hosting, serve it on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for presentation.

To store leftovers, let the cauliflower cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or an air fryer to bring back that crispy texture—it’s not the same when microwaved, so avoid that if you can.

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What to Serve With Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower?

Grilled Chicken

The juicy flavors of grilled chicken pair beautifully with the crispy, cheesy cauliflower.

Baked Salmon

Serve alongside baked or pan-seared salmon for a healthy, protein-rich meal.

Quinoa Salad

A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

The garlic-infused pasta blends wonderfully with the savory roasted cauliflower.

Garlic Aioli Dipping Sauce

This cauliflower is amazing dipped in creamy garlic aioli for an extra punch.

Roasted Chickpeas

Double down on the crunch with a handful of spiced roasted chickpeas.

Creamy Tomato Soup

Dunking crispy cauliflower into warm tomato soup? Totally satisfying.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but fresh is recommended for the crispiest texture. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry thoroughly before seasoning and roasting.

Can I make this in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. It yields extra crispiness in less time.

What can I use instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version?
Try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or your favorite dairy-free cheese that crisps well when baked.

How do I prevent soggy cauliflower?
Make sure the cauliflower is completely dry before seasoning, and spread it in a single layer with space between florets. Moisture and crowding are the top culprits for sogginess.

Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! You can cut and season the cauliflower up to a day ahead. Store it in the fridge, then add Parmesan and roast just before serving.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a spicy twist? Maybe a squeeze of lemon on top?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other roast smarter.

Find more daily recipes on my Life With Livia Pinterest

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Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is the kind of recipe that proves vegetables can be exciting, flavorful, and downright addictive. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you get a dish that’s versatile enough for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to holiday tables. Give it a try, and let the golden crunch speak for itself!

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