Go Back
–+ servings

Crispy Baked Cauliflower

5 from 2 votes
This Crispy Baked Cauliflower has tender cauliflower inside and a golden Parmesan breadcrumb coating outside. The florets are lightly blanched, breaded, and baked until crisp for an easy vegetable side dish.
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients 

  • 1 medium head cauliflower about 2.2 lb. (1 kg), cut into bite-size florets
  • 7 oz. 200 g breadcrumbs, panko recommended for extra crunch
  • 2.8 oz. 80 g Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 5 garlic cloves minced
  • 5 tbsp. olive oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 2 tsp. fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp. dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Salt for blanching and seasoning
  • All-purpose flour for dredging

Instructions

  • Cut the cauliflower into bite-size florets. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the cauliflower, and blanch for about 5 minutes, just until slightly tender.
  • Drain the cauliflower well and pat the florets completely dry with paper towels.
  • In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, olive oil, garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, and black pepper. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and slightly moist.
  • Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and whisk until smooth.
  • Working with one floret at a time, lightly coat it in flour, dip it into the beaten egg, then press it gently into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture until evenly covered.
  • Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece.
  • Bake in a preheated 180°C / 350°F oven for about 20 to 25 minutes, until the coating is golden and crisp and the cauliflower is tender inside.
  • Remove from the oven and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal

Notes

  • Dry the cauliflower very well after blanching. Extra moisture can prevent the coating from becoming crisp.
  • Panko breadcrumbs give the cauliflower a lighter, crunchier coating, but regular breadcrumbs also work. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet.
  • Leave space between the florets so they bake instead of steam.
  • Press the breadcrumb mixture gently onto each floret so the coating stays in place during baking.
  • Serve right away for the crispiest texture.