Of course! Baked cauliflower is a fantastic, versatile side dish that can be anything from simple and healthy to decadently cheesy. It’s a great low-carb alternative to potatoes.
Here are several delicious ways to bake cauliflower, from a basic roasted version to a full-on “cauliflower mac and cheese” experience.
Method 1: Simple Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower
This is the go-to method for incredible flavor and caramelization.
Ingredients:
· 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
· 3 tablespoons olive oil
· 4 cloves garlic, minced
· ½ teaspoon salt
· ¼ teaspoon black pepper
· ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
· ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
· 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for serving)
· 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is key for caramelization.
- Prep Cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower and cut it into evenly sized florets. Pat them very dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Season: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Arrange on Pan: Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a large, rimmed baking sheet. Do not overcrowd the pan. Use two sheets if necessary. Crowding will steam the cauliflower instead of roasting it.
- Roast: Bake for 20-25 minutes, without stirring, until the bottoms are deeply golden brown.
- Add Cheese & Finish: Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the cauliflower is tender and crispy on the edges.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a bright finish.
Method 2: Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Herb Glaze
An impressive, show-stopping centerpiece for a meal.
Ingredients:
· 1 whole head of cauliflower
· ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
· 2 tablespoons olive oil
· 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 tsp smoked paprika
· 1 tsp cumin
· ½ tsp salt
· ¼ tsp black pepper
· Juice of half a lemon
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prep Cauliflower: Remove the green leaves from the base and trim the stem so the cauliflower sits flat. Do not remove the core.
- Make Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), olive oil, mustard, garlic, spices, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Coat: Place the whole cauliflower in a cast-iron skillet or baking dish. Slather the glaze evenly over the entire surface, using your hands or a brush to get it in all the nooks and crannies.
- Roast: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and easily pierced with a knife. The outside should be a deep, golden brown. If needed, cover loosely with foil for the last 15 minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into “steaks” or wedges to serve.
Method 3: Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Gratin
The ultimate comfort food side dish.
Ingredients:
· 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
· 2 tablespoons butter
· 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
· 1 ½ cups milk, warmed
· 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
· ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
· ¼ tsp garlic powder
· Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
· Salt and pepper to taste
· ¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Cook Cauliflower: Steam or boil the florets for 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain very well.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the warm milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Add Cheese: Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar cheese, ¼ cup of the Parmesan, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Place the well-drained cauliflower in a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and gently toss to coat.
- Top: Mix the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan with the Panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the cauliflower.
- Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
General Tips for Perfect Baked Cauliflower:
· Dry It Well: This is the #1 rule for getting crispy, roasted cauliflower instead of steamed, mushy cauliflower.
· Don’t Crowd the Pan: Spread florets in a single layer with space between them. This allows moisture to evaporate.
· High Heat: A hot oven (400-425°F) is essential for caramelization.
· Season Generously: Cauliflower is a blank canvas. Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, garlic, and other spices like curry powder, chili powder, or Italian seasoning.
· Add Acid: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking brightens all the flavors beautifully.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy baked cauliflower! It’s a truly versatile vegetable.