Go Back
–+ servings
Loaded Roasted Cauliflower – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Loaded Roasted Cauliflower

Forget mushy cauliflower mash. This Loaded Roasted Cauliflower recipe roasts florets until tender with crispy, caramelized edges, then tops them with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh green onions. It's a delicious, low-carb, and guilt-free side dish that tastes like loaded
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 serving
Calories: 215
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, about 2 lbs / 900g (31.7 oz)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml / 1 fl oz) avocado oil
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
  • 2 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup (4 oz / 113.4 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream or Ranch dressing, for serving (optional)
  • For extra crispy bacon, partially cook it in a skillet before adding it to the sheet pan. This also allows you to drain off excess grease.
  • Feel free to add other toppings like diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of smoked paprika with the salt for a smoky flavor.

Method
 

  1. Prepare for Roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F / 200°C.
  2. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  3. Season the Cauliflower: Core the cauliflower and chop the florets into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
  4. In a large bowl, toss the florets with avocado oil and salt until evenly coated.
  5. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. First Bake: Sprinkle the chopped bacon and sliced green onions evenly over the cauliflower.
  7. Roast for 25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and starting to brown at the edges.
  8. Melt the Cheese: Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 2-4 minutes, just until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
  9. Serve Immediately: Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of Ranch dressing, if desired.
  10. Don't overcrowd the pan.
  11. Spreading the cauliflower in a single layer ensures it roasts and caramelizes instead of steaming, giving you the best flavor and texture.
  12. Shred your own cheese! Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting as smoothly.

Nutrition

Calories: 215kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 11gFat: 17g

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!