These crispy parmesan cauliflower steaks deliver a golden, savory crust with tender centers, making them one of the most delicious ways to enjoy cauliflower. With simple ingredients and irresistible flavor, this recipe turns a humble vegetable into a standout main or side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cauliflower steaks are incredibly easy to prepare yet taste gourmet thanks to the combination of aromatic spices, garlic, and plenty of parmesan. Baking them at high heat creates a beautifully crisp exterior without frying. The optional avocado dip adds freshness, creaminess, and a hint of heat, elevating the dish even further. Whether served as a vegetarian main or a side with your favorite entrée, this is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cauliflower head
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbs grated parmesan
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp each paprika, onion powder, and salt
1/4 tsp chili pepper flakes
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
fresh chives, chopped (optional garnish)
Avocado Dip:
1 avocado, halved
2 scallions, roughly chopped
1/2 lime, juiced
1 jalapeño, deseeded and roughly chopped
1 tbs olive oil
1 tbs grated parmesan or nutritional yeast
1/4 cup parsley
1/3 cup water
salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Preheat the oven to 450°F.
Pat the cauliflower dry. Slice it in half, then slice each half again to form thick cauliflower steaks. Arrange them on a baking sheet.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 2 tablespoons grated parmesan, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and chili flakes. Brush the mixture generously onto both sides and edges of each steak.
Dip one side of each cauliflower steak into the freshly grated parmesan and place it parmesan-side down on the baking sheet.
Bake for 10 minutes at 450°F. Reduce the oven temperature to 425°F and continue baking for 20–25 minutes, or until deeply golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and serve crispy side up. Garnish with fresh chives if desired.
To make the avocado dip, combine all dip ingredients in a mini food processor and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Add a squeeze of lemon over the baked steaks for a bright finish.
Sprinkle with smoked paprika instead of regular for deeper flavor.
Use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan for a dairy-lighter version.
Add a touch of cayenne or extra chili flakes for more heat.
Serve with tahini sauce or yogurt-based dips instead of avocado dip for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerate leftover cauliflower steaks in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 400°F oven or air fryer until warm and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.
The avocado dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day with the surface covered tightly to prevent browning.
FAQs
How thick should the cauliflower steaks be?
They should be about 1 to 1.5 inches thick to hold together while baking.
Can I air fry the cauliflower steaks?
Yes, air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden.
Do the steaks need to be flipped while baking?
No, because the parmesan side crisps best when baked undisturbed.
Can I prepare the cauliflower steaks ahead of time?
You can slice and season them ahead, but bake just before serving for maximum crispness.
What can I use instead of jalapeño in the dip?
You can substitute with a mild green chili or omit for a non-spicy version.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
No, frozen cauliflower does not hold steak form well and becomes too soft.
Does the parmesan need to be freshly grated?
Freshly grated parmesan melts and crisps better, so it’s highly recommended.
Can I make the recipe vegan?
Use olive oil, nutritional yeast instead of parmesan, and adjust seasonings to taste.
How do I prevent the steaks from falling apart?
Use a large, firm head of cauliflower and slice it from top to stem in thick slabs.
What should I serve with these cauliflower steaks?
They pair well with grilled chicken, salads, grain bowls, or can be served as a main with the avocado dip.
Conclusion
Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks offer a flavorful, satisfying twist on a classic vegetable using simple ingredients and easy techniques. With their golden crust, tender interior, and vibrant avocado dip, they make a memorable dish perfect for weeknights or entertaining. Enjoy them as a hearty vegetarian main or a standout side you’ll come back to again and again.
Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks are oven-roasted to golden perfection with a savory parmesan and spice crust. Served with a zesty avocado dip, they make a satisfying vegetarian main or a standout side dish.
Ingredients
1 cauliflower head
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp grated parmesan
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp chili pepper flakes
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Fresh chives, chopped (optional garnish)
Avocado Dip:
1 avocado, halved
2 scallions, roughly chopped
1/2 lime, juiced
1 jalapeño, deseeded and roughly chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp grated parmesan or nutritional yeast
1/4 cup parsley
1/3 cup water
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
Pat cauliflower dry and slice into thick steaks (about 1 to 1.5 inches).
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, 2 tbsp grated parmesan, garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and chili flakes.
Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with the spice mixture.
Dip one side of each steak into the 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan and place parmesan-side down on a baking sheet.
Bake for 10 minutes at 450°F, then reduce oven to 425°F and bake for another 20–25 minutes, until golden and crisp.
To make the avocado dip, combine all dip ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve cauliflower steaks crispy side up with avocado dip on the side. Garnish with fresh chives if desired.
Notes
Slicing from top to bottom helps cauliflower steaks stay intact.
Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
Substitute nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
Avocado dip is best fresh but keeps for up to 1 day if well covered.
Reheat leftover steaks in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.
