Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Bites

Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer that combines the tender bite of cauliflower with the savory taste of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. These bite-sized pieces are lightly seasoned and coated with breadcrumbs for a crisp finish. With a hint of smoked paprika and garlic powder, they’re both satisfying and flavorful. This easy recipe makes a perfect snack, side dish, or party appetizer that everyone will love, even those who don’t usually enjoy cauliflower.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Steps to Make Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Bites

1. Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Coating

  1. Whisk Eggs: In a small bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to blend evenly.

3. Coat the Cauliflower

  1. Dip in Egg Mixture: Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off.
  2. Coat with Cheese Mixture: Roll each egg-coated cauliflower piece in the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating stick.

4. Arrange and Bake

  1. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for even baking.
  2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and the coating is golden and crispy.

5. Garnish and Serve

  1. Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
  2. Serve Hot: Serve the cauliflower bites hot, as they’re best enjoyed fresh from the oven.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used, but make sure to thaw and pat it dry thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, which can make the coating soggy.

2. How can I make this gluten-free?
Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

3. What dipping sauces pair well with these cauliflower bites?
These bites are delicious with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

4. Can I air fry these cauliflower bites?
Yes, you can air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

5. How do I make the coating extra crispy?
For a crispier coating, try using panko breadcrumbs, which add a lighter, crunchier texture compared to traditional breadcrumbs.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Bites

  1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
  2. Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow even browning. Overcrowding can result in a less crispy coating.
  3. Season Generously: Adjust the seasoning to your taste; adding a bit more garlic powder or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile.
  4. Serve Immediately: These bites are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, as the coating is crispiest right after baking.
  5. Add Extra Cheese on Top: For extra cheesy bites, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top during the last few minutes of baking.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover cauliflower bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) to retain crispiness.
  • Freezing: These cauliflower bites don’t freeze well after baking, as the texture may become soggy upon reheating. However, you can freeze them before baking and cook them directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Bites are a fun, flavorful way to enjoy cauliflower. With a crispy coating and cheesy center, they’re a hit with both kids and adults. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it a great choice for quick snacks, party appetizers, or even a light dinner side. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy a guilt-free snack that’s as tasty as it is healthy. Whether you’re looking for a way to get more veggies in your diet or simply love creative, cheesy snacks, these cauliflower bites are sure to become a household favorite.