Description
Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and healthy appetizer or snack featuring bite-sized cauliflower florets coated in a savory Parmesan-panko crust. Baked or air-fried to golden perfection, these bites offer a satisfying crunch with bold flavors from garlic powder, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for serving with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
Batter & Coating
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Others
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking or air frying)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or your air fryer to 390°F (199°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if baking, or lightly grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
- Set Up Coating Stations: Arrange three bowls – one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret first into the flour to lightly coat, then into the beaten eggs to help the coating adhere, and finally roll it thoroughly in the Parmesan-panko mixture ensuring each floret is well covered.
- Arrange for Cooking: Place the coated florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or arrange them evenly in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding to allow proper crisping.
- Cook Until Crispy: Bake in the oven for 22–25 minutes or air fry for 15–18 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through cooking. Cook until the bites are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately while hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, marinara, or a spicy aioli for added flavor.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Parmesan-panko mix for a spicy kick.
- These bites make a great appetizer, party snack, or a healthy alternative to fried finger foods.
