Crispy Roasted Cauliflower with Cheddar & Parmesan Recipe
This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower with Cheddar & Parmesan recipe features tender cauliflower florets roasted to golden perfection and topped with a savory blend of sharp white cheddar and nutty parmesan cheese. Seasoned with Old Bay, chili pepper, and freshly ground black pepper, this dish is a flavorful and satisfying side that combines crispy texture with cheesy richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 1 large cauliflower
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- ½ tsp chili pepper
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Oils
- 6 tbsp olive oil
Cheeses
- 8 oz sharp white cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 oz parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it is hot enough to crisp the cauliflower.
- Prepare Cauliflower: Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets. Make sure they are fairly uniform in size for even cooking.
- Season Cauliflower: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with the olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, chili pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh ground black pepper until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
- Roast Cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, turning the cauliflower once halfway through, until the florets are tender and crispy on the edges.
- Add Cheeses: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and evenly sprinkle the grated sharp white cheddar and parmesan cheeses over the hot cauliflower. Return the baking sheet to the oven.
- Broil to Melt Cheese: Switch the oven to broil mode and place the cauliflower close to the heating element. Broil for 2-4 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly, melted, and slightly golden. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a couple of minutes before transferring to a serving dish. Enjoy warm as a delicious side or vegetarian main dish.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of chili pepper based on how spicy you prefer the dish.
- For a crispier texture, make sure the cauliflower is dry before tossing with oil.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to keep crispiness.
