Description
This Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks recipe transforms fresh cauliflower into a hearty, flavorful vegetarian main dish. Thick slices of cauliflower are seasoned, topped with a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, then roasted to create a golden, bubbly crust. Perfect for a comforting yet healthy meal, these cauliflower steaks make a great alternative to traditional meat dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Steaks
- 1 firm, fresh head of cauliflower
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional herbs and spices: paprika, thyme, rosemary, chili flakes
Cheese Topping
- Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, or a combination, about 1 to 1½ cups shredded
Instructions
- Prepare Cauliflower: Remove the green leaves and trim the stem from the cauliflower head. Slice it into thick steaks approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick, keeping them intact. Reserve any smaller broken florets for roasting alongside or another use.
- Season Your Steaks: Brush each cauliflower steak generously with olive oil on both sides. Sprinkle evenly with salt, black pepper, freshly minced garlic, and any optional herbs or spices like paprika, thyme, rosemary, or chili flakes to enhance the flavor.
- Add the Cheese Layer: Top each cauliflower steak with a generous layer of shredded cheese, covering the surface evenly. This mixture will melt and brown beautifully during cooking, forming a delicious golden crust.
- Roast to Perfection: Place the cauliflower steaks on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Roast until the cheese is bubbly, slightly browned, and the cauliflower is tender but still holds its shape.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally garnish with fresh herbs or drizzle with your favorite sauce. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife to slice the cauliflower steaks carefully to keep them intact.
- Adjust the seasoning and herbs according to your taste preferences.
- For extra crispiness, broil the cauliflower steaks for 1-2 minutes at the end of roasting, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Any leftover cauliflower florets can be roasted alongside the steaks for a side dish.
- This recipe can be made gluten free and vegetarian.
