These cheesy cauliflower steaks are a savory and satisfying vegetarian dish that combines the mild flavor of roasted cauliflower with rich, melted cheese and fresh sliced tomatoes. The cauliflower steaks are roasted until tender and golden, then topped with cheese and baked until bubbly. This dish is perfect as a main course or as a side to your favorite protein!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large cauliflower, cut into 1-inch thick steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the cauliflower into 1-inch thick slices, making “steaks” from the center of the cauliflower head.
- Lay the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Season the Cauliflower:
- Drizzle the olive oil over the cauliflower steaks.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
- Use a brush or spoon to coat the cauliflower evenly with the oil and seasonings.
- Roast the Cauliflower:
- Roast the cauliflower steaks in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Add Cheese and Tomatoes:
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven and top each steak with a slice of tomato.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
- Bake Again:
- Return the cauliflower to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a light, refreshing contrast.
- Top with a fried egg for added protein.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
- Try drizzling with a balsamic glaze for a tangy kick.
Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of chili flakes before roasting.
- Make sure to use a sharp knife when cutting the cauliflower to get even steaks.
- You can substitute the mozzarella with cheddar or gouda for a different cheese flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cauliflower is rich in vitamins C and K, and is a good source of fiber.
- This dish is low in carbs and high in antioxidants from the tomatoes.
- Cheese provides a good amount of protein and calcium.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
- Low-carb
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesy cauliflower steak recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious, low-carb vegetarian dish. The combination of roasted cauliflower, melted cheese, and fresh tomatoes is a winner every time. It’s quick to make and customizable with your favorite cheeses and seasonings. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients while still being indulgent!
Conclusion
Cheesy cauliflower steaks are a delightful dish that offers all the comfort of a cheesy, savory meal without the guilt. The roasted cauliflower adds a lovely depth of flavor, while the melted cheese brings a rich creaminess. Whether you’re serving this as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how satisfying it is to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh cauliflower, as frozen cauliflower tends to get mushy when roasted. - Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini along with the cauliflower for added flavor and texture. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the cauliflower steaks and store them in the fridge before roasting. Just add the cheese and tomatoes before baking. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese. - Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this dish is low in carbs and perfect for keto or low-carb diets. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this dish vegan or dairy-free. - Can I grill the cauliflower steaks instead of roasting?
Yes, grilling the cauliflower steaks will give them a smoky flavor, which is also delicious. - How do I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat. - Can I make the cauliflower steaks thicker or thinner?
Yes, you can adjust the thickness to your preference, but thinner steaks may cook faster. - Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best to freeze the cauliflower steaks before adding the cheese. Once ready to bake, top with cheese and cook as usual.