Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
How to Make Cheesy Cauliflower Bites
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower
Cut the cauliflower into small florets, then steam or boil them until they’re tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. It’s important to get the cauliflower as dry as possible so your bites hold together better.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cauliflower, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, eggs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or potato masher to break down the cauliflower and mix everything together. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 4: Form the Bites
Scoop a tablespoon of the cauliflower mixture and form it into small bite-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each bite.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the cauliflower bites in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges. If you want them extra crispy, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, if desired, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Steamer or pot for boiling cauliflower
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tips and Recipe Variations
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is the go-to for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- Seasoning Swaps: Don’t be afraid to change up the seasonings! Try Italian seasoning, cumin, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Dipping Sauces: These bites are perfect with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli for dipping.
- Meal Prep: These Cheesy Cauliflower Bites can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy texture.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the bites after baking. Just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crispy.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the Cheesy Cauliflower Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use an air fryer to bring back their crispiness.
Pairing Suggestions
These bites make a fantastic snack or appetizer, but they can also be served alongside a larger meal. Pair them with a fresh salad for a light lunch or serve them as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak for a more filling dinner. For drinks, a sparkling water with lemon or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc would complement the flavors nicely.