Baked Cauliflower Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Cauliflower Bites are a crispy, flavorful, and wholesome snack or side dish that’s perfect for game days, healthy appetizers, or meatless meals. Coated in a savory seasoning blend and baked until golden, these bite-sized florets are irresistibly crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re easy to customize, fun to dip, and totally addictive!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 medium head of cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/3 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prep the Cauliflower:
   • In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil until evenly coated.
3. Coat with Seasoning:
   • In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Toss the oiled cauliflower in the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
4. Bake:
   • Spread the coated florets in a single layer on the baking sheet.
   • Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve:
   • Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, buffalo, or spicy mayo.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
• Buffalo Style: Toss baked bites in buffalo sauce and return to the oven for 5 more minutes.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh is best for crisp texture, but thawed and well-drained frozen cauliflower can work in a pinch.

Can I air fry these instead of baking?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

What’s the best dip for these bites?
Ranch, garlic aioli, marinara, or buffalo sauce are all great options!

Conclusion

Baked Cauliflower Bites are a guilt-free way to enjoy a crispy, flavorful snack or side. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick bake time, these bites are perfect for satisfying cravings in a healthier way. Customize them to your taste, and don’t forget the dip!

Print