Description
Cheesy Cauliflower Bites are a delicious, healthy snack or appetizer made from finely chopped cauliflower blended with cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices. Baked to perfection, these golden-brown bites offer a crispy exterior with a cheesy, tender interior, perfect for serving with a variety of dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Bites
- 3 cups cauliflower florets (finely chopped or grated)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Steam or microwave the cauliflower for 5–6 minutes until just tender. Drain well and pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. Then finely chop the cauliflower or pulse it in a food processor until it resembles rice.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the prepared cauliflower, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until fully incorporated and the mixture holds together well.
- Shape the Bites: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and form them into small balls or patties. Place the formed bites evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. Flip the bites halfway through the baking time to ensure both sides become golden brown and crispy along the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, optionally garnish the bites with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as ranch, marinara, or sriracha mayo for added flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, serve with ranch, marinara, or sriracha mayo dips.
- These bites can be air-fried at 375°F for 10–12 minutes as an alternative cooking method.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Make sure to dry the cauliflower thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
- Using fresh parsley as garnish adds a nice color and fresh taste, but it’s optional.
