Looking for a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy cauliflower? This Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is just the thing. With its crispy edges, cheesy coating, and a hint of paprika, this dish turns an ordinary vegetable into something delicious and exciting. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal or a tasty snack on its own. Plus, with both oven and air fryer instructions, you can choose the method that works best for you!

Ingredients

3-4 cups cauliflower florets
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats up, prepare the cauliflower.

2. Toss Cauliflower with Butter

In a large bowl, add the cauliflower florets and drizzle the melted butter over them. Make sure every piece is coated well. If you notice any pieces that aren’t covered, give them another toss or use a silicone pastry brush to spread the butter evenly.

3. Add the Parmesan Coating

In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, and black pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the butter-coated cauliflower florets in the large bowl. Cover the bowl with a lid and gently toss the cauliflower to evenly coat each piece with the cheese mixture.

4. Bake Until Crispy

Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick spray. Make sure the pieces aren’t overcrowded so they get nice and crispy. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden and crispy. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Air Fryer Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.

2. Prepare the Cauliflower

Spray the crisper plate with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray the tops of the florets with olive oil for extra crispiness.

3. Air Fry

Cook the cauliflower for about 20 minutes or until they reach your desired level of crispiness. Halfway through, you can gently turn the pieces over with a rubber-tipped spatula, though it’s not always necessary.

Time and Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Add Garlic: Toss the cauliflower with minced garlic or garlic powder before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Version: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Parmesan coating.
Herb Twist: Mix in some dried Italian herbs or fresh parsley for a more aromatic version of this dish.

Storage

Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop the cauliflower back into a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before tossing it with butter and the Parmesan mixture. Otherwise, the cauliflower may become soggy instead of crispy.

What other cheeses can I use?

While Parmesan adds a great salty crunch, you can also use finely grated Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor.

How do I keep the cauliflower from getting mushy?

The key is to make sure the cauliflower florets are well-coated with butter or oil and spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can trap steam and lead to softer, less crispy cauliflower.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

For the best texture, it’s ideal to serve the cauliflower right out of the oven. However, you can prepare the cauliflower with the butter and cheese mixture in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to roast or air fry.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any wheat products.

Conclusion

This Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a fantastic way to elevate a humble vegetable. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a snack, the crispy, cheesy coating will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different spices or cheeses to match your taste. Enjoy it hot from the oven or air fryer for the best results!