Oven-Baked Cauliflower Recipe

Cauliflower might not always be the star of your meals, but this Oven-Baked Cauliflower Recipe will change that. These golden, crispy bites are not just delicious—they’re also a healthier alternative to fried snacks. Whether you’re making a side dish, a snack, or a party appetizer, this recipe delivers every time. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare, you’ll find yourself reaching for it often.

Why You’ll Love Oven-Baked Cauliflower

If you’ve ever thought cauliflower was boring, this recipe will prove you wrong. Baking cauliflower with a crispy breadcrumb coating transforms it into a crunchy, flavorful treat. It’s the perfect way to add a nutritious vegetable to your meal without sacrificing taste. You can even customize it with your favorite spices and dipping sauces for endless variety.

Ingredients for Oven-Baked Cauliflower

Here’s everything you need for this simple yet tasty recipe:

Ingredient	Quantity
Cauliflower	1.3 kg (about 1 large head)
Panko breadcrumbs	150 g
Garlic, minced	1 clove
Flour	100 g
Eggs, beaten	3
Extra virgin olive oil	5 tbsp
Italian herbs	1 tsp
Parsley, chopped	2 tsp
Parmesan cheese, grated	50 g
Salt and pepper	To taste

How to Make Oven-Baked Cauliflower

1. Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
2. Cut the Cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized florets. Pat dry to remove any excess moisture.

2. Prepare the Coatings

1. Breadcrumb Mixture: In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian herbs, parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well to blend the flavors.
2. Flour Mixture: Place the flour in a shallow dish.
3. Egg Mixture: In another shallow dish, beat the eggs until smooth.

3. Coat the Cauliflower

1. Dredge in Flour: Lightly coat each cauliflower floret with flour, ensuring an even layer. Shake off any excess.
2. Dip in Egg: Dip the floured florets into the beaten eggs, coating them fully.
3. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll the egg-coated florets in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs stick.

4. Bake the Cauliflower

1. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they don’t overlap for even cooking.
2. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle the florets with extra virgin olive oil. This helps achieve that perfect golden crisp.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, turning the florets halfway through to ensure they bake evenly.

5. Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Remove the baked cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly on the baking sheet.
2. Serve: Transfer to a serving platter and serve hot. Pair it with marinara, ranch, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Cauliflower

1. Dry the Cauliflower: Removing excess moisture helps the coating stick better and ensures the florets turn crispy.
2. Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add extra crunch, but fresh breadcrumbs can work in a pinch.
3. Don’t Skip the Olive Oil: Drizzling with olive oil is crucial for achieving that irresistible golden-brown finish.
4. Turn Florets Halfway: Flipping ensures even cooking and prevents soggy spots.
5. Experiment with Seasonings: Swap Italian herbs for chili powder, smoked paprika, or curry powder to switch up the flavor profile.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	220
Carbohydrates	20 g
Protein	7 g
Fat	12 g
Fiber	3 g

Creative Variations

1. Spicy Baked Cauliflower

Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a fiery kick.

2. Cheesy Cauliflower

Sprinkle additional Parmesan or shredded mozzarella on the florets during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.

3. Herb-Infused Florets

Swap the Italian herbs for rosemary, thyme, or dill for an earthy, aromatic twist.

4. Gluten-Free Option

Replace flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free panko.

5. Vegan Version

Use a plant-based egg substitute and skip the Parmesan for a vegan-friendly recipe.

FAQs About Oven-Baked Cauliflower

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry the florets thoroughly before coating to prevent sogginess.

2. What dipping sauces pair well with baked cauliflower?
Marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, buffalo sauce, or even yogurt-based dips are excellent choices.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can coat the cauliflower ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before baking.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover baked cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

5. Can I air fry this recipe?
Yes! Air fry the coated florets at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

6. What can I serve with baked cauliflower?
Pair it with salads, grilled meats, or even pasta for a complete meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Oven-Baked Cauliflower Recipe is a perfect balance of health and flavor. It’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with herbs, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. Plus, it’s versatile enough for customization, so you can enjoy it in endless ways.

Final Thoughts

Ready to transform simple cauliflower into a crowd-pleasing dish? This Oven-Baked Cauliflower Recipe will become a go-to favorite for both kids and adults. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it’s the ultimate combination of healthy and delicious.

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