Parmesan Cauliflower Bites

These crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious low-carb, gluten-free snack or appetizer that turns simple ingredients into something special. With a golden, cheesy crust and a tender interior, they’re the kind of recipe I keep coming back to when I want something easy and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe makes cauliflower incredibly flavorful with just a handful of ingredients. The Parmesan adds a savory, cheesy bite while paprika gives it a subtle warmth. It’s a great option for quick snacking, party appetizers, or even a fun side dish. Best of all, it’s baked, not fried, so I get that crispy texture without the extra oil.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 cups cauliflower florets, washed and thoroughly dried

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. I place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl and pour the melted butter over them. Then I cover the bowl and shake gently to coat them evenly.

3. In a small bowl, I mix the Parmesan, paprika, and black pepper. I sprinkle this over the buttered cauliflower.

4. I cover and shake the bowl again so everything is evenly coated.

5. I spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick spray.

6. I bake for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden.

7. I serve them hot, right out of the oven.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I change things up by using Asiago or Romano cheese instead of Parmesan. If I want more crunch, I mix in a tablespoon of whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, though that makes it a bit less low-carb. I’ve also tried adding a pinch of cayenne or garlic powder for extra flavor—it works really well.

Storage/Reheating

When I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To bring them back to life, I pop them into the oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5 to 10 minutes until they’re hot and crispy again. I avoid the microwave because it tends to make them soft.

FAQs

How do I make sure the seasoning sticks well?

I find that shaking the cauliflower in a bowl with a lid after adding the butter and again after adding the cheese mixture helps everything coat evenly.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes prep the cauliflower and seasoning mix a day before and store them separately. I combine them right before baking.

Is there a non-dairy alternative to Parmesan?

I like using nutritional yeast when I need a dairy-free option. It gives a nice cheesy flavor without any dairy.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Definitely. I set my air fryer to 390°F, arrange the cauliflower in a single layer, and cook for 18–20 minutes, shaking once halfway through.

What dips go well with these?

I usually serve them with marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli. Those pair well with the cheesy and slightly spicy flavor.

Conclusion

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are one of my go-to snacks when I want something fast, easy, and delicious. They’re crisp on the outside, tender inside, and packed with flavor. Whether I’m serving them to guests or enjoying them solo, they always hit the spot.