Name: Cauliflower Parmesan: 7 Delicious Ways to Enjoy This Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 Tbsp olive oil (for the herb oil mixture); ½ tsp garlic powder (adds flavor); 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning blend (for seasoning); 1 tsp salt (for seasoning); ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper (for seasoning); 1 large head cauliflower cut into 4 thick slices vertically (for the ‘steaks’); 2 tomatoes sliced (preferably vine-ripe adds moisture and flavor); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided into ¼ cup portions (adds creaminess and melt); 8 slices provolone cheese (for topping each cauliflower steak)

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Cauliflower Parmesan is a delightful vegetarian dish that combines the rich flavors of cheese with the lightness of cauliflower. This savory, cheesy recipe features fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and provolone, making it a satisfying option for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a healthy side dish, this recipe will surely please your taste buds. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Cauliflower Parmesan

There are countless reasons to love Cauliflower Parmesan. First, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, low-carb dish without sacrificing flavor. The combination of Parmesan cheese and cauliflower creates a rich, creamy texture that is truly satisfying. If you’re a fan of baked cauliflower with cheese, this recipe takes it to the next level. Plus, it’s perfect for vegetarian diets, and even offers a vegan cauliflower Parmesan alternative if you swap out the cheese. This dish also works well for meal prep, making it a versatile addition to your weekly menu. Finally, its Italian roots bring a touch of warmth to your dining experience, making it a comforting choice for family dinners.

Ingredients for Cauliflower Parmesan

Gather these items:

3 Tbsp olive oil (for the herb oil mixture)
½ tsp garlic powder (adds flavor)
1 Tbsp Italian seasoning blend (for seasoning)
1 tsp salt (for seasoning)
½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper (for seasoning)
1 large head cauliflower cut into 4 thick slices vertically (for the ‘steaks’)
2 tomatoes sliced (preferably vine-ripe adds moisture and flavor)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided into ¼ cup portions (adds creaminess and melt)
8 slices provolone cheese (for topping each cauliflower steak)

How to Make Cauliflower Parmesan Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
Step 2: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
Step 3: Cut the cauliflower head vertically into 4 thick slices. Be mindful that the steaks without the stem may fall apart, but this is fine as they can be grouped together.
Step 4: Brush 2 Tbsp of the herb oil mixture evenly over both sides of each cauliflower steak. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Place 2-3 tomato slices on top of each cauliflower steak. This step helps keep the cheese from melting through the cauliflower and adds moisture.
Step 6: Evenly sprinkle ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese over each cauliflower steak. Then, add 2 slices of provolone cheese to the top of each.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the cauliflower is fork-tender and the cheese is golden. If the cheese starts to brown too much, lightly cover with aluminum foil.

Irresistible Cauliflower Parmesan fresh from the oven on a baking sheet

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cauliflower Parmesan

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to slice the cauliflower thickly to create sturdy steaks that hold up during baking.
Using a combination of cheeses like mozzarella and provolone enhances the flavor and texture.
For a gluten-free cauliflower Parmesan, ensure your seasonings are free from gluten.
Remember to check the cheese as it bakes; if it browns too quickly, cover it with foil.
This dish can be customized with breadcrumbs for extra crunch, making it an easy cauliflower Parmesan recipe.

Best Ways to Serve Cauliflower Parmesan

This Cauliflower Parmesan dish is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a main course paired with a light salad or as a side dish alongside pasta. Consider complementing it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. It’s also an excellent addition to a vegetarian meal spread, making it a hit at dinner parties.

How to Store and Reheat Cauliflower Parmesan

To store leftovers, place the Cauliflower Parmesan in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven for about 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or microwave for a quicker option. This makes it a great choice for Cauliflower Parmesan for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cauliflower Parmesan

What’s the secret to perfect Cauliflower Parmesan?

The secret to perfect Cauliflower Parmesan lies in the seasoning and the baking technique. Ensuring that the cauliflower is well-seasoned and not overcrowded on the baking sheet allows it to roast beautifully, resulting in a flavorful, tender dish.

Can I make Cauliflower Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Cauliflower Parmesan ahead of time by assembling it and storing it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cauliflower Parmesan?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that the cauliflower is cut into even slices for uniform cooking. Also, don’t skip the step of layering tomatoes on top, as it helps keep the cheese from sliding off and adds moisture.

Variations of Cauliflower Parmesan You Can Try

There are many ways to put a twist on Cauliflower Parmesan. For a healthier option, try a low-carb cauliflower Parmesan dish by skipping the breadcrumbs. You can also create a Cauliflower Parmesan casserole by layering it with pasta in a baking dish. For those following a vegan diet, use cashew cheese or nutritional yeast as a vegan cauliflower Parmesan alternative.

Delicious Cauliflower Parmesan served with fresh ingredients

For more delicious vegetarian recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for a sweet treat. If you’re interested in meal prep, this green bean casserole is a great option for the holidays!