This Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower is an easy side dish that turns simple cauliflower into something incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Fresh cauliflower florets are coated with olive oil and a savory blend of Old Bay seasoning, chili pepper, and black pepper, then roasted until tender with beautifully crisp, golden edges.
The best part comes at the end, when shredded sharp white cheddar and Parmesan are added over the hot roasted cauliflower. The cheeses melt into a rich, bubbly topping that gives every bite a delicious combination of crispy vegetables and creamy, savory flavor. It’s a simple way to make roasted cauliflower much more exciting for the whole family.
Serve this cheesy cauliflower recipe as an easy weeknight side dish alongside chicken, steak, pork, or your favorite main course. It also makes a great low-carb vegetable option when you want something comforting without a lot of complicated preparation. With just a handful of ingredients and one baking sheet, this recipe is perfect for busy dinners.
Ingredients:
1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets
6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
½ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste
8 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
4 ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Instructions:
- Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cover a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- Season the cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, chili pepper, and black Toss thoroughly until the seasoning and oil coat the cauliflower evenly.
- Arrange for roasting: Transfer the seasoned cauliflower to the prepared baking sheet. Spread the pieces into a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. This helps the edges become nicely browned and crisp.
- Roast until golden: Bake for approximately 25–30 minutes, turning the cauliflower pieces halfway through cooking. Continue roasting until the florets are tender and the edges are golden brown.
- Add the cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the cheddar and Parmesan evenly over the roasted cauliflower. Return it to the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese has completely melted and begins to bubble.
- Serve: Let the cauliflower cool for a minute or two, then serve immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey and the roasted edges are still crisp.
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the oven: Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cover a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- Season the cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, chili pepper, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until the seasoning and oil coat the cauliflower evenly.
- Arrange for roasting: Transfer the seasoned cauliflower to the prepared baking sheet. Spread the pieces into a single layer, making sure they aren't overcrowded. This helps the edges become nicely browned and crisp.
- Roast until golden: Bake for approximately 25–30 minutes, turning the cauliflower pieces halfway through cooking. Continue roasting until the florets are tender and the edges are golden brown.
- Add the cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the cheddar and Parmesan evenly over the roasted cauliflower. Return it to the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese has completely melted and begins to bubble.
- Serve: Let the cauliflower cool for a minute or two, then serve immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey and the roasted edges are still crisp.
