These crispy, golden cauliflower bites are roasted until crunchy on the outside and tender inside, then served with a creamy dipping sauce.
🥦 Ingredients
For the cauliflower:
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For the creamy dipping sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower. Cut it into medium-sized florets.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil.
- In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the seasoning mixture to the cauliflower and toss well until the florets are evenly coated.
- Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer, leaving space between the pieces.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning the florets halfway through, until deeply golden and crispy.
- For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
🥣 Creamy Dipping Sauce
Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before serving.
⭐ Tips
- Dry the cauliflower very well before seasoning for better crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
- For an extra-crispy version, use an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12–16 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: 4
Category: Appetizer / Side Dish
Cuisine: American-inspired