Cauliflower Parmesan from Cauliflower's features tender breaded cauliflower florets baked in a rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, delivering a savory and comforting Italian-inspired dish.
Equipments
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Shallow dish or plate
- Oven
- Casserole dish or baking dish
- Grater (for Parmesan)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Using fresh cauliflower is essential for achieving tender florets that hold up well during breading and baking. Be sure to measure the panko breadcrumbs precisely to ensure a crispy texture without overwhelming the dish. Incorporate dried oregano and basil to enhance the Italian flavors, balancing the garlic powder's aroma. Choose a high-quality marinara sauce, as it forms the rich base for the dish and pairs perfectly with the melted mozzarella and Parmesan. You can recreate Cauliflower Parmesan from Cauliflower's copycat menu with these carefully selected ingredients for an authentic and satisfying meal.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, one with panko mixed with garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge cauliflower florets in flour, dip in eggs, and coat in seasoned panko.
- Arrange breaded florets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spray florets lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Arrange baked cauliflower over the sauce.
- Top with remaining marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden cheese top, if desired.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Substitution
Cauliflower Parmesan from Cauliflower's copycat menu serves tender breaded cauliflower florets baked in a rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, creating a savory Italian-inspired comfort dish. You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free option. If fresh cauliflower is unavailable, frozen florets can be used, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid sogginess. Marinara sauce can be replaced with any tomato-based pasta sauce or homemade sauce for a personalized flavor. Parmesan cheese may be swapped with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Tips
To ensure your cauliflower florets turn out tender yet crispy, coat them evenly in the seasoned panko mixture and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to promote proper air circulation during baking. Keep your oven consistently at 425degF (220degC) for both baking stages to achieve optimal texture and cheese melting without sogginess. Using a combination of mozzarella and grated Parmesan delivers a rich, savory flavor and a desirable melted, golden crust. You can customize the seasoning in your breading station by adjusting herbs and spices to match your taste preferences.
Nutritions
Cauliflower Parmesan offers a nutritious alternative to traditional Italian dishes by using cauliflower florets, which are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. The breading with panko adds a crunchy texture with moderate carbohydrates, while the eggs contribute protein and essential amino acids. The marinara sauce contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant from tomatoes, and the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses provide calcium and protein for bone health. When enjoying this dish, you benefit from a lower-calorie, nutrient-dense meal that supports your overall well-being.
Storage
Store leftover Cauliflower Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness. To reheat, place your portion on a baking sheet and warm in a 375degF (190degC) oven for about 10-15 minutes to keep the breaded florets crispy and the cheese melted. Avoid microwaving as it can make the breading soggy and reduce the dish's overall texture quality.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or almond flour for a gluten-free option that still maintains a crispy texture. For added depth of flavor, mix fresh chopped basil and parsley into the marinara sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the cauliflower before baking. Roasting the cauliflower florets at a slightly lower temperature around 400degF (200degC) for a longer time can result in a more tender interior while keeping the exterior crispy. To enhance cheesiness, incorporate ricotta cheese between layers or use a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Allergies
Cauliflower Parmesan contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy from mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and gluten from all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs. If You have allergies to any of these ingredients, it is essential to find suitable substitutes such as egg replacers, dairy-free cheese alternatives, or gluten-free breadcrumbs to enjoy the dish safely. Cross-contamination during preparation may also pose a risk for those with severe allergic reactions.
Why this recipe?
The Cauliflower Parmesan from Cauliflower's restaurant is favored for its crispy, golden-brown crust paired with rich marinara and melted mozzarella, creating a satisfying vegetarian twist on a classic dish. Its balanced flavors and hearty texture appeal to both vegetarians and meat-eaters seeking a flavorful, nutritious option. You'll find that replicating this copycat recipe at home not only saves money but also allows customization of ingredients for dietary preferences or spice levels. Trying your hand at this popular dish ensures a delicious, homemade alternative that can impress family and friends.