Parmesan Cauliflower Bites

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are the perfect crispy, cheesy snack or side dish. Coated with Parmesan cheese and spices, these bites are baked or air-fried to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick and healthy treat, these cauliflower bites will satisfy your cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
• Quick to prepare with just a handful of ingredients.
• A healthy, low-carb, and gluten-free option.
• Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
• Versatile recipe with oven and air fryer instructions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 cups cauliflower florets (about 1 small head, washed and thoroughly dried)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Oven Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Coat the Cauliflower:
   In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with the melted butter. Use a silicone pastry brush to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
3. Add Seasoning:
   In a separate bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, paprika, and black pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the butter-coated cauliflower and gently toss to coat.
4. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer.
5. Bake:
   Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy.
6. Serve:
   Remove from the oven and serve hot.

Air Fryer Instructions

1. Preheat Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
   Follow the same steps to coat the cauliflower with butter, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and black pepper.
3. Cook in the Air Fryer:
   Spray the crisper plate with olive oil and arrange the cauliflower in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops of the florets with olive oil for extra crispiness.
   Cook for about 20 minutes, turning the florets halfway through with a rubber-tipped spatula.
4. Serve:
   Remove from the air fryer and enjoy immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~119 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add Herbs: Include dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning for an herby flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
• Vegan Option: Use olive oil instead of butter and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
• Extra Crunch: Toss the cauliflower in panko breadcrumbs after coating with butter and Parmesan.
• Cheese Blend: Mix Parmesan with shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes until warm and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bites soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but thaw and dry the cauliflower thoroughly to remove excess moisture before seasoning.

2. How can I make the bites crispier?

Ensure the cauliflower is completely dry before coating. Using an air fryer can also enhance crispiness.

3. Can I use grated Parmesan from a shaker?

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan, but shaker Parmesan can be a convenient substitute.

4. Are these bites keto-friendly?

Yes, they are low-carb and keto-friendly.

5. Can I make these ahead of time?

They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the seasoned cauliflower in advance and bake or air fry just before serving.

6. What dips pair well with Parmesan Cauliflower Bites?

Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo are great options.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but bake or air fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent crisping.

8. How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Mix the cheese well with the paprika and pepper, and monitor closely during the last few minutes of cooking.

9. Can I use a different vegetable?

Yes, broccoli, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts also work well with this recipe.

10. Can I freeze these bites?

It’s not recommended as the texture of cooked cauliflower may become mushy after freezing.

Conclusion

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a simple yet delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you bake or air fry them, these crispy, cheesy bites are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, and enjoy the satisfying flavors of this easy-to-make recipe!

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Snack, Appetizer
• Method: Baking, Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Enjoy these crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites, baked or air-fried to perfection! Coated with Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and spices, they’re a quick, low-carb snack or appetizer packed with flavor and crunch.

---

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups cauliflower florets (washed and thoroughly dried; about 1 small head)
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

Oven Method:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare Cauliflower: Toss cauliflower florets with melted butter in a large bowl, ensuring all pieces are coated.
3. Season: Mix Parmesan cheese, paprika, and black pepper in a separate bowl. Sprinkle over the buttered cauliflower and toss gently to coat.
4. Bake: Arrange florets in a single layer on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until edges are crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve: Enjoy hot as a snack or side dish.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
2. Prepare Cauliflower: Coat florets with butter and seasoning as described above.
3. Cook: Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil, place cauliflower in a single layer, and lightly spray florets with olive oil. Cook for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and crispy.

---

Notes

• Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
• For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes after baking.
• Serve with ranch or marinara dipping sauce for added flavor.

---

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: 119 kcal