Description
These Parmesan cauliflower bites are crispy, cheesy, and oven-roasted to golden perfection. With garlic, Parmesan, and optional spices, they make a light yet satisfying snack, side, or appetizer.
Ingredients
1 medium head cauliflower (about 1 to 1.5 lb), cut into bite-size florets
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1/2 tsp paprika or Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet (parchment optional).
- Pat cauliflower florets dry. Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and any optional seasoning.
- Sprinkle Parmesan over florets and toss until evenly coated.
- Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet without crowding.
- Bake 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway, until edges are crisp and golden.
- Cool slightly, then serve warm with marinara, ranch, or aioli if desired.
Notes
Swap paprika for Italian seasoning and finish with parsley and lemon for a fresh twist.
Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for spicier bites.
Mix in Pecorino or mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
Use the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway.
Finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes for added crunch.
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to re-crisp.
Coat florets ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to roast, or freeze raw and bake from frozen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg