Description
A crispy, cheesy roasted cauliflower recipe that serves as a healthier, homemade alternative to takeout. Coated in cornstarch and Parmesan, it delivers a fried texture without the heavy batter or oil.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head medium cauliflower (about 2–2.5 lbs / 1 kg), cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat cauliflower florets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss dry cauliflower florets with cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and half the salt until lightly dusted.
- Drizzle olive oil over the coated cauliflower and toss vigorously with tongs or hands until every floret is evenly coated and shiny.
- Spread cauliflower in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Do not overcrowd the pan; roast in two batches if necessary.
- Roast for 20 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle grated Parmesan evenly over the florets.
- Return to oven and roast for another 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes to allow cheese to set.
- Garnish with remaining salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not skip the cornstarch as it is essential for crispiness. Use fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano rather than pre-grated cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting. Ensure the oven is fully preheated and do not overcrowd the pan to prevent steaming. For extra crispiness, use a wire cooling rack on the baking sheet.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 to
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 10
Keywords: cauliflower, roasted cauliflower, crispy cauliflower, parmesan cauliflower, healthy side dish, keto friendly, gluten free, vegetarian, takeout alternative, easy dinner