Crispy Parmesan Smashed Cauliflower

Name: Crispy Parmesan Smashed Cauliflower
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 0.25 tsp Black Pepper; 1 whole Cauliflower; 1 bunch Fresh Parsley; 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tbsp Olive Oil; 0.5 tsp Onion Powder; 3 oz Parmesan Cheese; 1 to taste Ranch Dressing; 1 tsp Salt; 0.5 cup Water

Side Dish 🥗 American Vegetarian 🥦Halal 🕌Kosher ✡️Comfort-Food Pescatarian 🐟

Crispy Parmesan Smashed Cauliflower delivers tender florets with crunchy, cheesy edges and a whisper of garlic and onion. The contrast of creamy interiors and a salty Parmesan crust makes it a standout side for weeknight dinners or gatherings, especially with a cool ranch dip on the side. Serve it hot to enjoy the best texture and aroma.

Prep15 mins
Cook30 mins
Serves6
DifficultyEasy

1

Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
2

Place the cauliflower in a large microwave-safe bowl. Add water; cover with plastic wrap. Microwave on HIGH until the stalks are just tender enough to pierce with a paring knife, about 4 minutes. Drain well. Wipe the bowl clean and return the drained cauliflower to the bowl.
3

Sprinkle 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese in an even layer over the prepared baking sheet.
4

Add the oil, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper to the cauliflower; toss until evenly coated. Arrange in an even layer on top of the Parmesan cheese on the baking sheet.
5

Use a heavy-bottomed glass or jar to smash the cauliflower florets, taking care not to break them completely apart. Sprinkle evenly with the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan.
6

Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is crispy and golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes.
7

Break apart if needed. Garnish with parsley and serve with ranch dressing, if desired. Recipe developed by Melissa Gray.