Description
These Crunchy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and crispy snack or appetizer that’s perfect for dipping in marinara sauce. Coated in a golden, cheesy panko crust and baked to perfection, they offer a satisfying crunch while staying light and flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower
- 1/2 head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
Coating
- 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs (Kikkoman brand preferred for even baking)
- 3/4 cup finely ground Parmesan cheese
Binding
- 2 large eggs, whisked
Serving
- Marinara sauce for dipping
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Coating: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the panko bread crumbs and finely ground Parmesan cheese until well combined to create the crispy coating.
- Coat Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the whisked eggs, allowing excess egg to drip off to avoid soggy breadcrumbs. Then, roll each piece in the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks firmly to each floret. Place the coated bites evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the coated cauliflower bites in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the coating turns a dark golden brown and becomes crunchy.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the baked cauliflower bites with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For the best texture, use Kikkoman brand panko bread crumbs as recommended for even baking.
- Finely grinding the Parmesan cheese helps it to adhere better to the cauliflower and provides a more uniform crust.
- Be careful not to let excess egg drip onto the plate before coating, as too much moisture can prevent the crumbs from sticking properly.
- These bites are best served fresh and warm for optimal crunchiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cauliflower bites, Parmesan cauliflower, crunchy appetizers, baked cauliflower, vegetarian snacks, panko crust
