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Cauliflower Parmesan Recipe

4.7 from 141 reviews

This Cauliflower Parmesan recipe features roasted cauliflower steaks topped with savory marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a delicious vegetarian take on the classic Italian dish, perfect as a main or a side, combining crispy roasted edges with cheesy, flavorful toppings and fresh basil for a vibrant finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 large head cauliflower, stem trimmed and cut vertically into 1” planks

Seasonings & Oils

  • 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Cheeses & Sauce

  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan, divided
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnishes

  • 1/4 cup basil leaves, torn if large
  • Crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Arrange the cauliflower planks in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with extra-virgin olive oil, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  2. Roast Cauliflower: Roast the cauliflower steaks in the oven, flipping them over once halfway through, for about 35 minutes, or until they are tender and have a golden brown color. This roasting brings out a nutty flavor and soft texture.
  3. Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the cauliflower from the oven and spoon marinara sauce evenly over each steak. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce for a cheesy layer.
  4. Broil for Melting Cheese: Switch the oven setting to broil and place the baking sheet back in the oven. Broil the cauliflower steaks for about 3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden in spots. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. Garnish with torn basil leaves and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to add fresh and spicy elements. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Use a sharp knife to cut cauliflower into even planks for even roasting.
  • Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.
  • Marinara sauce can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.
  • For a gluten-free meal, ensure the marinara sauce does not contain gluten additives.
  • Leftover cauliflower steaks can be refrigerated and reheated, though they are best fresh.

Keywords: Cauliflower Parmesan, roasted cauliflower, vegetarian parmesan, Italian vegetarian recipe, cauliflower steak, cheesy cauliflower