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Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks

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Crispy Parmesan cauliflower steaks with a golden crust that are quick, easy, and perfect for a flavorful meatless dinner. The crust is crunchy and cheesy while the inside remains tender with a satisfying bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, sliced into 3/4-inch thick steaks
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano)
  • 1/2 cup plain or panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred), for brushing
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes if pan-searing.
  2. Trim leaves and stem end from the cauliflower, then slice the head into 3/4-inch thick steaks (about 3-4 steaks depending on size).
  3. In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  4. Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  5. Generously sprinkle and press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture onto one side of each steak.
  6. For oven method: Place steaks crust-side up on a greased baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and tender.
  7. For skillet method: Place steaks crust-side down first and cook 4-5 minutes until golden and crisp, then flip and cook another 4-5 minutes. Adjust heat if crust browns too fast.
  8. Optional: Sprinkle lemon zest over hot steaks before serving.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best crust texture. Brush olive oil generously to help crust adhere and crisp. Slice cauliflower evenly at 3/4-inch thickness to prevent crumbling. Flip gently and only when edges are golden to keep crust intact. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Vegan version can use nutritional yeast and flax egg or aquafaba as binder. Adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower steaks, crispy cauliflower, Parmesan crust, vegetarian dinner, easy veggie recipe, meatless meal, gluten-free option