Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25–30 minutes | Total Time: ~40 minutes
Serves: 4

This creamy, cheesy roasted cauliflower is the perfect comfort side dish—or even a light vegetarian main. Tender florets are smothered in a flavorful cheddar-Parmesan sauce and roasted until bubbling and golden. Customize it to your liking, or keep it simple for a fuss-free winner.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup milk

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and mild spice)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

‍ Directions

1. Prep and Roast the Cauliflower

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Spread cauliflower florets in a single layer on a large baking sheet.

• Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss well to coat.

• Roast in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, until just starting to soften.

2. Make the Cheesy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• Cheddar cheese

• Parmesan cheese

• Sour cream

• Milk

• Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using)
  Stir until smooth and evenly blended.

3. Add Cheese Mixture & Finish Baking

• Remove the cauliflower from the oven.

• Pour or spoon the cheese mixture over the florets, coating them evenly.

• Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and the cheese is melted, golden, and slightly bubbly.

4. Garnish and Serve

• Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

• Serve warm as a side dish or a vegetarian main.

Tips & Variations

• Add protein: Stir in cooked crumbled ground beef or turkey before the final bake for a heartier dish.

• Extra crisp: Broil the cauliflower for 2–3 minutes at the end for a golden crust.

• Mix it up: Try other cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or smoked Gouda for fun twists on flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside roast chicken, grilled steak, or as a creamy low-carb main.

• Great with a crisp green salad or crusty bread.