Introduction

Crispy oven roasted cauliflower is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. With a hint of smoky spice and optional parmesan, it makes a perfect side dish or snack that’s both healthy and flavorful.

The image shows a baking tray filled with roasted cauliflower pieces, with about two layers mostly overlapping. Each cauliflower piece has a light golden-yellow color with crispy, browned edges and some darker charred spots scattered across the surface. The texture of the cauliflower is bumpy and slightly crumbly on top, with some areas showing tender, softer white interiors. The baking tray has some spots of caramelized juices and browned bits stuck around the cauliflower. The entire scene is placed on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
2 tablespoons grated parmesan (optional for a cheesy version)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Wash and thoroughly pat dry the cauliflower. Cut into bite-sized florets for even roasting.
Step 3: In a large bowl, toss the florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. If using parmesan, add it now.
Step 4: Spread the cauliflower evenly in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd the florets.
Step 5: Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve immediately as a side dish, snack, or salad topping. Enjoy with dips like ranch or garlic aioli if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, make sure the cauliflower is dry before roasting and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice after roasting for a bright, fresh flavor.
Try tossing roasted cauliflower with a little hot sauce or curry powder for a different twist.
Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a vegan cheesy flavor.

Storage

Store leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes to regain crispiness, or microwave briefly if preferred.

How to Serve

The image shows a metal roasting pan filled with roasted cauliflower florets. There are about three to four layers of cauliflower pieces, each with a light golden brown and slightly crispy texture on the outside while the inside remains white and soft. The florets are placed unevenly, covering the base of the pan with some smaller browned bits stuck to the pan's surface. The edges of the cauliflower have a mix of golden-yellow and light brown spots, showing good roasting. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for roasting?

It’s best to use fresh cauliflower for roasting as frozen cauliflower tends to be softer and can become mushy. If using frozen, thaw and thoroughly dry it before roasting.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Simply omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast to keep the cheesy flavor without dairy.

Crispy Oven Roasted Cauliflower Recipe Easy & Delicious Recipe

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This Crispy Oven Roasted Cauliflower recipe is an easy, delicious way to prepare cauliflower florets with a perfect balance of spices and optional parmesan for an extra cheesy flavor. Roasted until golden and crispy, this versatile dish can be enjoyed as a side, snack, or salad topping paired with your favorite dips.

Author: Sophie
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

Seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
2 tablespoons grated parmesan (optional for a cheesy version)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and pat it completely dry. Cut it into bite-sized florets to ensure even roasting and crispiness.
Season the Cauliflower: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly. If desired, add the grated parmesan and toss gently to distribute.
Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the florets are not overcrowded, which helps them roast evenly and become crispy.
Roast the Cauliflower: Bake the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Flip the florets halfway through to ensure both sides get crispy and golden brown.
Serve & Enjoy: Remove the cauliflower from the oven and serve immediately. It makes a perfect side dish, flavorful snack, or crunchy salad topping. Pair with dips such as ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or your favorite sauce.

Notes

Make sure the cauliflower is completely dry before roasting to achieve maximum crispiness.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level or omit for mild flavor.
For a vegan option, skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Leftover roasted cauliflower can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
You can customize the seasoning by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional aroma.

Keywords: crispy cauliflower recipe, oven roasted cauliflower, easy cauliflower side dish, healthy roasted vegetables, parmesan cauliflower, spicy roasted cauliflower