Crispy Baked Cauliflower Bites Recipe With Parmesan

Crispy Baked Cauliflower Bites Recipe With Parmesan – A Healthy Snack That Doesn’t Taste Boring!

If you’re looking for a snack that’s crispy, cheesy, and secretly healthy, these baked cauliflower bites with parmesan are about to become your new favorite. They’re golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, game-day snack, or a side dish for dinner, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.

What makes this recipe so great? It’s baked, not fried—so you get all the crunch without the guilt. Plus, the cauliflower soaks up the garlic, herbs, and cheesy goodness in a way that’s totally irresistible.

Why You’ll Love These Cauliflower Bites

These bites give you that deep-fried crunch without using oil or breadcrumbs. Instead, the magic comes from the combination of grated parmesan, spices, and a light dusting of cornstarch or flour to create the perfect crust. It’s the kind of snack that even non-veggie lovers go crazy for.

They’re also kid-friendly, gluten-free adaptable, and ideal for dipping in your favorite sauces—ranch, spicy mayo, marinara, or even buffalo sauce.

Ingredients

1. 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
2. 1½ tablespoons olive oil
3. ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
4. 2 tablespoons cornstarch or all-purpose flour
5. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
6. ½ teaspoon paprika
7. Salt and pepper to taste
8. Optional: chopped parsley or extra parmesan for garnish

How to Make It

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil until evenly coated.
3. In another bowl, mix together parmesan, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the cauliflower in the parmesan mixture until each piece is well-coated.
5. Spread the cauliflower on the baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish with parsley and a little extra parmesan if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dip.

Tips for the Crispiest Cauliflower

• Don’t overcrowd the pan—space helps them crisp.
• Use fresh, firm cauliflower for best texture.
• For extra crunch, broil for the last 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and dry it very well to avoid sogginess.

Q: Is there a vegan version?
Skip the parmesan and use nutritional yeast or a vegan parmesan alternative.

Q: What can I serve with it?
These bites go great with ranch, honey mustard, buffalo sauce, or even as a side for burgers or grilled chicken.