Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower: A Game-Changing Side Dish
Looking for a vegetable dish that’ll make everyone at the table reach for seconds? This Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower transforms the humble cauliflower into an addictively crispy, cheesy delight that might just steal the show from your main course!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Move over, basic steamed veggies! This roasted cauliflower is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with savory Parmesan flavor. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make and works perfectly as both a side dish or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Cauliflower
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cut cauliflower into evenly sized florets – not too small or they’ll burn, not too large or they won’t crisp up.
- Wash and thoroughly dry the florets (this is crucial for achieving crispiness!).

Season to Perfection
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add cauliflower florets and toss until evenly coated.
- Add 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese and toss again.
Roasting Magic
- Spread cauliflower on a large baking sheet in a single layer – don’t crowd!
- Roast for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with remaining Parmesan.
- Return to oven for 5-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Pro Tips for Success
- Pat the cauliflower completely dry before seasoning
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – give each floret space to crisp
- Flip the florets halfway through cooking
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results
Variations to Try
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving
- Sprinkle with breadcrumbs for extra crunch
- Mix in other herbs like thyme or rosemary
- Add nutritional yeast for a vegan option
Storage Tips
Best served immediately while crispy, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Final Note
This recipe has converted many cauliflower skeptics into believers! It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients and proper roasting technique can transform this vegetable into something truly crave-worthy. Give it a try – I bet it’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation!
Happy cooking! Let me know in the comments if you try this recipe and what you think! 🥦✨