Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower

Between homework, basketball practice, school functions, and work, getting dinner on the table can be a little tricky during the week. That’s why we have a stockpile of tried-and-true side dishes that are both easy and tasty. Take this recipe for cheesy roasted cauliflower for example. It bakes up in about 30 minutes and uses only one pan – all we need is a protein on the side and dinner is served.

We roast cauliflower florets with a dash of red pepper flakes before adding shredded cheese and popping the pan back in the oven to finish. The combination of cauliflower and cheese is a great alternative to mashed potatoes. We love to serve cheesy roasted cauliflower with chicken or pork chops. Roasted cauliflower is one way to bring a new vegetable dish to the family dinner table, and who can beat veggies topped with cheese? It’s a simple side dish that packs a big punch, and one that our family devours!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy roasted cauliflower is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients and a single pan, you can whip up a delicious side dish that complements almost any main course. The savory, melty cheese pairs perfectly with the tender, roasted cauliflower, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking dish or casserole dish
• Oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Arrange the cauliflower florets in a casserole dish.
3. Drizzle the cauliflower with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if desired for a bit of heat.
4. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the cauliflower with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cauliflower florets are roughly the same size for even roasting.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or parmesan, for a unique flavor twist.

Additional Tips or Variations

For added flavor, try sprinkling some garlic powder or onion powder over the cauliflower before baking. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a burst of freshness.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 150, Protein: 7g, Carbohydrates: 8g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and pat it dry before roasting to prevent excess moisture.

How can I make this dish more filling?
Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.

Conclusion

We hope you’ll give this cheesy roasted cauliflower a try! It’s a fantastic way to introduce more vegetables into your meals while keeping things deliciously cheesy. Let us know how it goes and feel free to share your own variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!