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Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks

Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks

Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks transform simple cauliflower into a crispy, tender, and flavorful dish topped with melted cheese. Perfect as a vegetarian main or side, this recipe offers a hearty, cheesy, and savory meal that’s easy to prepare and customizable to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 firm, fresh head of cauliflower
  • 23 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese of choice (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh herbs (parsley or chives), chopped, for garnish
  • Crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary mixed into olive oil
  • Toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts for topping
  • Soy sauce or parmesan for umami boost

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Remove the green leaves and trim the stem from the whole cauliflower. Place it on a cutting board and carefully slice into 3/4-inch thick ‘steaks.’ Use at least 2-3 solid slices for cooking; smaller pieces may fall apart.
  2. Season the steaks: Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper on both sides to build a flavorful base.
  3. Roast or grill: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat the grill to medium-high. Place the cauliflower steaks on a parchment-lined baking sheet or directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and golden brown.
  4. Add the cheese: Remove the steaks from heat briefly. Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each steak. Return to the oven or grill for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and bubbles.
  5. Serve warm: Once the cheese is melted and slightly browned, transfer the steaks to serving plates. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately for the best melty, crispy experience.

Notes

  • Pick a firm cauliflower to ensure steaks hold together and roast evenly.
  • Don’t skip olive oil; it helps caramelize edges and prevents drying.
  • Use a wire rack when roasting for better air circulation and crispier crust.
  • Experiment with cheese layering for varied textures and flavors.
  • Watch cooking time closely to avoid mushy steaks and maintain texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheesy cauliflower steaks, vegetarian, roasted cauliflower, cheesy vegetable dish, gluten free appetizer, cauliflower recipe