This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower is the perfect healthy snack or side dish, packed with flavor and crunch! Golden, crispy, and seasoned to perfection, this dish is easy to make, gluten-free friendly, and pairs well with your favorite dipping sauce.
Roasting cauliflower enhances its natural sweetness while creating a crispy texture—without frying!
💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy & Flavorful – Golden, crunchy, and packed with seasonings.
✔ Easy & Healthy – A low-calorie alternative to fried snacks.
✔ Customizable – Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
✔ Dipping Sauce Included! – A creamy, spicy sauce for extra flavor.
📌 Ingredients (Serves 4)
🥦 For the Roasted Cauliflower:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crispiness)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for crunch!)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
🥣 For the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt and pepper
💡 Optional Additions:
✔ Swap breadcrumbs for crushed almonds or crushed pork rinds (keto-friendly option).
✔ Add grated lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
✔ Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra heat.
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Preheat the Oven
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2️⃣ Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
💡 Tip: A higher temperature ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
🥦 Step 2: Prep the Cauliflower
1️⃣ Wash and dry the cauliflower thoroughly.
2️⃣ Cut it into even, bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
💡 Want extra crispy cauliflower? Pat dry with a kitchen towel before roasting.
🧂 Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower
1️⃣ In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil until evenly coated.
2️⃣ In a separate bowl, mix:
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese (if using)
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper
3️⃣ Sprinkle the seasoned breadcrumb mixture over the cauliflower and toss to coat.
4️⃣ Press the coating gently onto the florets for better adhesion.
💡 Tip: For extra crunch, double coat the florets by tossing them again in a second round of breadcrumbs.
🔥 Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
1️⃣ Spread the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the baking sheet.
2️⃣ Don’t overcrowd—this ensures even roasting and crispiness.
💡 For ultimate crispiness, use a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate around the florets.
🍽 Step 5: Roast Until Golden & Crispy
1️⃣ Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.
2️⃣ Flip the florets halfway through to ensure even browning.
3️⃣ If you want extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
💡 Tip: The cauliflower is ready when the edges are golden brown and crispy.
🥣 Step 6: Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
1️⃣ While the cauliflower is roasting, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- Hot sauce
- Honey or maple syrup
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper
2️⃣ Adjust the seasoning to taste and refrigerate until serving.
💡 Want a tangy twist? Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce.
🍽 Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
1️⃣ Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes.
2️⃣ Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish.
💡 Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor!
🕰️ Recipe Timing & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: ~30 minutes
- Calories: ~180 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
👩🍳 Pro Tips & Variations
✔ Make It Vegan – Skip the Parmesan & use nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
✔ Spicy Version – Toss with cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
✔ Keto-Friendly? – Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
✔ Extra Crunch? – Double coat the florets with egg wash & extra breadcrumbs.
❓ FAQs
Can I air-fry this instead of roasting?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot oven for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the cauliflower and store it in a sealed container in the fridge until ready to roast.