Description
Baked Cauliflower Parmesan is a delicious and healthy vegetarian casserole featuring tender roasted cauliflower florets topped with savory marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs. This easy Italian-American recipe offers a flavorful and comforting main course perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower and Seasoning
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Toppings
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Toss Cauliflower with Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Toss thoroughly until all florets are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Roast Cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through cooking to ensure even browning, until they are tender and lightly browned.
- Assemble the Bake: Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven and transfer it to the prepared baking dish. Evenly spoon the marinara sauce over the cauliflower, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Optional Garnish: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving. For extra crispiness, broil the dish for the last 2 to 3 minutes.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the dish for the last 2 to 3 minutes.
- Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix or on top for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
