Golden, garlicky, and irresistibly cheesy, this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower is the ultimate low-carb side dish that tastes just as indulgent as your favorite comfort food. Roasted until tender and tossed in a buttery parmesan garlic sauce, every bite is loaded with flavor and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Whether you’re serving it with dinner or enjoying it as a savory snack, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—even for picky eaters!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Low-Carb Comfort – All the cheesy, garlicky flavor without the guilt.
Crispy & Tender – Roasted cauliflower with golden edges and soft centers.
One-Pan Wonder – Easy prep and cleanup with just one baking sheet.
Packed with Flavor – Garlic, butter, parmesan, and herbs in every bite.
Versatile Side – Great with chicken, beef, or vegetarian mains.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Paprika for color and smokiness
- Lemon zest for brightness
- Extra cheese for a gooey topping
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prep the Cauliflower
Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until evenly coated.
Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower
Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until lightly golden and fork-tender.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the roasted cauliflower with parmesan and mozzarella.
Return to the oven and bake for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Enjoy as a side dish or a cheesy, veggie-packed main!
Tips for Success
Cut Even Florets – Helps everything roast evenly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Spread florets out to get crispy edges.
Use Fresh Garlic – For the best flavor boost.
Adjust Cheese – Add more or less to suit your taste.
Roast First, Then Add Cheese – Keeps it crispy, not soggy.
Serving Suggestions
With Grilled Chicken – Perfect low-carb pairing.
Alongside Steak – Adds richness without heavy carbs.
As a Main Dish – Add chickpeas or lentils for a veggie meal.
With Marinara – Serve with a side of warm tomato sauce for dipping.
In a Grain Bowl – Add to quinoa or rice bowls with greens and sauce.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 375°F for 10 minutes to regain crispness.
Air Fryer: Perfect for quick, crispy reheating.
Microwave: Fastest method, though it softens the cauliflower.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry before roasting to prevent sogginess. - Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter substitutes—it’s still delicious! - What kind of parmesan is best?
Freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. - Is this keto-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s low in carbs and high in flavor and fat. - Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes! Add shredded rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, or crispy tofu for a full dish.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower is your new favorite side dish—rich, comforting, and loaded with bold, cheesy flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that turns everyday cauliflower into something truly craveable. Easy enough for weeknights, yet tasty enough for guests, it’s guaranteed to be a repeat request in your kitchen.
Bake it up, serve it hot, and don’t forget to tag your cauliflower creations online!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American, Low-Carb
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – serves 4):
Calories: 220 | Protein: 8g | Carbohydrates: 9g | Fat: 17g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 310mg

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
Golden, garlicky, and irresistibly cheesy, this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower is the ultimate low-carb side dish that tastes just as indulgent as your favorite comfort food. Roasted until tender and tossed in a buttery parmesan garlic sauce, every bite is loaded with flavor and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Whether you’re serving it with dinner or enjoying it as a savory snack, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—even for picky eaters!
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now for crave-worthy veggie sides and easy, cheesy favorites you’ll love making on repeat.
Ingredients
-
1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
½ tsp salt
-
¼ tsp black pepper
-
½ tsp Italian seasoning
-
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
-
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
-
Red pepper flakes for heat
-
Paprika for color and smokiness
-
Lemon zest for brightness
-
Extra cheese for a gooey topping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prep the Cauliflower
Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until evenly coated.
Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower
Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until lightly golden and fork-tender.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the roasted cauliflower with parmesan and mozzarella.
Return to the oven and bake for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Enjoy as a side dish or a cheesy, veggie-packed main!
Notes
Cut Even Florets – Helps everything roast evenly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Spread florets out to get crispy edges.
Use Fresh Garlic – For the best flavor boost.
Adjust Cheese – Add more or less to suit your taste.
Roast First, Then Add Cheese – Keeps it crispy, not soggy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American, Low-Carb