Description
These Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and healthy appetizer featuring cauliflower florets coated in a flavorful mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices, then baked or air fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack or side dish, they offer a satisfying crunch and a savory kick that’s sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Bites
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the cooking device: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) to ensure the cauliflower cooks evenly and achieves a crispy texture.
- Prepare egg wash: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the two large eggs until smooth. This will help the coating adhere to the cauliflower florets.
- Make the coating mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Coat the cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret first into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing so the coating sticks well to each piece.
- Arrange for cooking: Place the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet if using the oven, or in the air fryer basket if using the air fryer. Make sure they are spaced out to allow even cooking.
- Apply olive oil spray: Lightly spray the cauliflower bites with olive oil to enhance browning and crispiness during cooking.
- Cook the bites: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping once during cooking, until the bites are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm: Remove from oven or air fryer and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Optionally, toss with buffalo sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Notes
- For extra flavor, toss the cauliflower bites in buffalo sauce after baking or air frying.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- These bites make a great snack, appetizer, or side dish for any occasion.
