Cheesy Garlic Oven-Baked Cauliflower: A Crispy, Flavorful Side Dish
Cauliflower is one of those versatile vegetables that can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes, and this oven-baked version with cheese and garlic is a true crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a side dish or snack that’s both healthy and packed with flavor, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Whether you’re trying to add more veggies to your diet or searching for a lighter alternative to fried snacks, baked cauliflower offers the perfect solution.
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way a few basic ingredients work together to create something truly special. Tender cauliflower florets are boiled briefly to soften them just enough, then coated with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, garlic, and paprika. As the cauliflower bakes, the coating turns crispy, while the cheese melts into a golden layer of deliciousness. The result? Crispy, cheesy bites with a hint of garlic and smoky paprika, making every mouthful irresistible.
This dish also fits effortlessly into a variety of meals. Serve it as a side for your favorite main course, add it to a holiday spread, or even enjoy it as a stand-alone snack. The combination of textures—the crunch from the coating and the tender cauliflower inside—along with the rich, cheesy flavor, make this recipe a go-to option whenever you want something quick, nutritious, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
2 large eggs.
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets.
½ tsp garlic powder or 1–2 cloves fresh garlic, minced.
1 tsp paprika.
⅔ cup (80g) breadcrumbs.
½ cup (50g) grated cheese (Parmesan, cheddar, or mozzarella).
Salt and pepper to taste.
Vegetable oil for brushing the baking pan.
Servings: 4-6.
Total time: 35 minutes.
Instructions:
Step 1
Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
Step 2
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Step 3
Add the cauliflower florets and boil for 3-4 minutes, just until slightly tender.
Step 4
Drain and rinse the cauliflower under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Step 5
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 6
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs.
Step 7
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 8
Lightly brush the paper with vegetable oil.
Step 9
Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off.
Step 10
Then, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
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