Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy roasted cauliflower is a simple, delicious way to transform a humble vegetable into a flavorful side dish. With a crispy, golden exterior and melted sharp cheddar, it’s sure to please even picky eaters.

Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower (cut into small similar sized florets)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Step 2: Cut the cauliflower into small, similarly sized florets to ensure even cooking.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower with salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and olive oil until evenly coated.
4. Step 4: Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Step 5: Roast in the oven for 20 minutes.
6. Step 6: Remove the baking sheet and flip the florets using a spatula to promote even browning.
7. Step 7: Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, until tender with browned edges.
8. Step 8: Flip the cauliflower again, then sprinkle the freshly grated sharp cheddar evenly over the top.
9. Step 9: Roast for 5 more minutes until the cheese is melted and crispy around the edges.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes before roasting.
• Try using mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for a different cheesy taste.
• Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish.

Storage

Store leftover cheesy roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the cheese melty without drying the florets.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Fresh cauliflower works best for roasting, but if using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry to avoid soggy results.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Substitute the cheddar cheese with your favorite vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 80 reviews

• Author: Elara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A deliciously simple recipe for Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower featuring tender roasted cauliflower florets seasoned with garlic and onion powder, then topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese for a crispy, savory finish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cauliflower

• 1 head of cauliflower (cut into small similar sized florets)

Seasonings & Oil

• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Topping

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for roasting your cauliflower to perfection.
2. Prepare the cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into small florets of similar size to ensure even cooking and roasting.
3. Toss with seasoning and oil: Place the cauliflower florets in a mixing bowl, then add salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and olive oil. Stir well to coat all pieces evenly with the seasoning and oil.
4. Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets out in a single, even layer on a baking sheet to allow proper roasting and browning.
5. Initial roasting: Roast the cauliflower at 400°F for 20 minutes to begin softening and browning the florets.
6. Flip and stir: Use a spatula to flip and stir the cauliflower, promoting even browning on all sides.
7. Continue roasting: Return the cauliflower to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes to develop tenderness and brown edges.
8. Add cheese topping: Flip the cauliflower once more, then generously sprinkle freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the florets.
9. Final roasting: Roast for a final 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and crispy on the edges, then remove from oven and serve hot.

Notes

• To make cutting easier, remove the leaves and trim the stem of the cauliflower before cutting it into florets.
• Ensure florets are of similar size for even roasting.
• Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
• You can customize the seasoning by adding smoked paprika or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat can help with easy cleanup.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: cheesy roasted cauliflower, roasted cauliflower recipe, baked cauliflower with cheese, easy vegetable side dish, cheddar cauliflower