Cauliflower Parmesan: A Delicious, Low-Carb Twist on a Classic

If you love traditional Chicken Parmesan but are looking for a lighter, veggie-forward alternative, this Cauliflower Parmesan is the perfect dish! It swaps out the chicken for roasted cauliflower steaks, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor. Topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then broiled to perfection, this dish offers a delicious mix of textures and tastes. Whether you’re vegetarian or just looking to cut down on carbs, this recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, stem trimmed and cut vertically into 1″ planks
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1½ cups marinara sauce
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan, divided
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn if large
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Cauliflower

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Trim the stem of a large head of cauliflower and cut it vertically into 1-inch planks (also known as “cauliflower steaks”). Arrange the cauliflower steaks in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
• Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks with 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Roast the Cauliflower

• Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, flipping the steaks halfway through, until they are tender and golden brown on both sides.

Step 3: Add Marinara and Cheese

• Once the cauliflower is roasted, remove it from the oven.
• Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each steak, then sprinkle them with 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan.

Step 4: Broil the Cauliflower

• Set the oven to broil.
• Return the cauliflower to the oven and broil for about 3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden in spots. Keep a close eye on it to avoid over-browning.

Step 5: Serve

• Remove the cauliflower from the oven and garnish with the remaining grated Parmesan, ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick).
• Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness of your Cauliflower Parmesan!

Recipe Tips:

• Choosing Cauliflower: Look for a large, firm cauliflower head that’s free of any blemishes. Cutting the cauliflower into thick, even steaks will help them roast evenly.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties. You can swap the mozzarella for provolone or add extra Parmesan for a nuttier flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish on its own as a vegetarian entrée, or pair it with a side of pasta or a green salad for a more complete meal.

Recipe Information:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Calories: 270 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

This Cauliflower Parmesan is a flavorful and nutritious alternative to the classic Chicken Parmesan. The roasted cauliflower becomes tender and caramelized, providing a perfect base for the rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food while keeping things light and veggie-packed. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a special treat, this recipe is bound to become a favorite!

Print