Description
These Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a deliciously crunchy and flavorful appetizer perfect for snacking or serving at parties. Tender cauliflower florets are coated in a crispy panko-Parmesan crust seasoned with garlic and paprika, then baked to golden perfection. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a healthy, vegetarian treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
Breading
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- Olive oil spray or drizzle, for baking
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Set up the breading station: Arrange three bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a seasoned mix of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the cauliflower florets: Dip each cauliflower floret first into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat it thoroughly with the panko-Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well.
- Arrange and oil: Place the coated florets on the lined baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Lightly spray or drizzle the florets with olive oil to promote browning and crispiness during baking.
- Bake to crisp perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure even golden browning. Bake until the coating is crispy and browned.
- Serve warm: Once baked, remove from the oven and serve the crispy Parmesan cauliflower bites warm with your preferred dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Notes
- These bites pair wonderfully with marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli dips.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Make sure to flip the florets halfway through baking for even crispiness.
- Using olive oil spray helps keep the bites crispy without adding excess oil.
