Description
This Baked Cauliflower Parmesan recipe offers a delicious, vegetarian twist on the classic Italian dish by using cauliflower as the star ingredient. Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, baked until crispy, then baked again with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, this dish is perfect for a satisfying meatless meal that’s easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower and Coating
- 1 large head cauliflower (cut into ¾-inch thick slices or large florets)
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Sauce and Topping
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Coating: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a shallow bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give the cauliflower its flavorful and crispy exterior.
- Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower slice or floret into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then press it gently into the breadcrumb mixture so the coating adheres well. Place each coated piece on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake the Cauliflower: Lightly spray the tops of the coated cauliflower with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through baking to ensure an even, golden-brown, and crispy crust.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread ½ cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange a layer of the baked cauliflower slices on top of the sauce. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the cauliflower and then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake with Cheese: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve the baked cauliflower Parmesan warm, perfect alongside pasta or a crisp green salad.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute Italian-style breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Pair this dish with pasta or a crisp green salad to make a complete and balanced meal.
- Leftovers reheat well either in the oven or air fryer, retaining the crispy texture.
