Description
Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious—perfect as a snack, appetizer, or healthy side dish. Bite-sized cauliflower florets are coated in a savory parmesan and herb breadcrumb mixture, then baked or air-fried until golden and tender. They offer a great low-carb alternative to traditional fried snacks and are perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower and Coating
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Binding and Cooking
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or olive oil, for baking or air frying
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Egg Wash: In a medium bowl, whisk the two large eggs until smooth and set aside.
- Mix Coating: In another bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Coat Cauliflower Florets: Dip each cauliflower floret first into the whisked eggs, letting any excess drip off, then press into the parmesan breadcrumb mixture, coating thoroughly. Press gently so the mixture adheres well.
- Arrange and Prepare for Cooking: Place the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to aid crisping.
- Cook: Bake in the oven for 25–30 minutes or air fry for 15–18 minutes, turning the florets halfway through the cook time to ensure even browning. Cook until golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender inside.
- Serve: Serve the Parmesan Cauliflower Bites warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as ranch, marinara, or any favorite sauce.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Leftover bites can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.
