Cheesy Baked Cauliflower

Tender roasted cauliflower florets coated in garlic, herbs, and melted cheese make this easy side dish a delicious addition to any meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large baking sheet.
2. Season the cauliflower: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with the olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Bake: Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking dish or baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and lightly browned.
4. Add the cheese: Sprinkle the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan evenly over the cauliflower.
5. Finish baking: Return to the oven for 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
6. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips

• Cut the florets into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the cauliflower will steam instead of roast.
• For extra browning, broil for the last 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.
• Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.

Variations

• Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
• Bacon Cheddar: Top with cooked, crumbled bacon before serving.
• Mediterranean: Add crumbled feta cheese, olives, and fresh oregano instead of cheddar.
• Herb Parmesan: Increase the Parmesan and add fresh thyme and rosemary.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside:

• Roast chicken
• Grilled steak
• Baked salmon
• Pork chops
• Meatloaf
• Rice or mashed potatoes

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through (the cauliflower will be softer).