Cheesy Cauliflower Bites are a delicious, crispy snack or side dish that’s perfect for satisfying your cheesy cravings while keeping things light.
Made with bite-sized cauliflower florets coated in a flavorful mixture of cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and spices, these bites are baked to golden perfection.
The combination of garlic, onion powder, and smoked paprika adds a savory kick, while the cheeses give them a gooey, indulgent texture.
Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, or healthy alternative to traditional fried bites, these cheesy cauliflower bites are sure to be a hit.
Cheesy Cauliflower Bites
Ingredients:
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Coating Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Beat the Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly.
Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully covered.
Then, roll it in the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure each piece is well coated with the cheesy breadcrumbs.
Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
For Cheesy Cauliflower Bites, there are numerous ways to customize the recipe to suit your taste.
You can switch up the cheeses by using mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor, or opt for panko breadcrumbs to achieve extra crunch.
For a low-carb version, almond flour or crushed pork rinds work well as a breadcrumb substitute.
If you’re looking to add more nutrition, mix in finely chopped spinach or kale.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes will add heat, and serving the bites with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli will elevate the dish.
To ensure a perfect result, make sure to thoroughly dry the cauliflower before coating it, spread the bites evenly on the baking sheet for even browning, and consider broiling them for a few minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
These bites are best served hot and fresh, garnished with parsley for a touch of freshness.
To store Cheesy Cauliflower Bites, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
Store the bites in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, use the oven or air fryer to help maintain their crispiness, as microwaving may make them soggy.
If you’d like to freeze them, place the cooled bites on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months, and should be reheated directly from frozen in the oven for best results.