Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, plant-based main dish with irresistible texture and flavor. They come out perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and are super easy to prepare using simple pantry staples. Whether you’re new to cooking cauliflower or looking for a budget-friendly, family-friendly dinner option, this recipe is a winner. Pair it with my creamy salmon pasta with mixed greens under 30 minutes for a complete meal.
Why You'll Love Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks - Easy, Healthy & Delicious
Enjoy easy, crispy baked cauliflower steaks that are perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. Fast to make and full of flavor, this recipe is a family favorite!
- Easy to prepare with few ingredients and minimal prep
- Healthy, low-carb, and packed with fiber and vitamins
- Crispy outside with tender, flavorful inside for great texture
- Versatile and customizable with optional toppings
Ingredients for Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks - Easy, Healthy & Delicious
Cauliflower: Choose a firm, white head with no brown spots. Romanesco or purple cauliflower are great colorful substitutes.Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil for best flavor; avocado oil works well if preferred.
- Cauliflower: Choose a firm, white head with no brown spots. Romanesco or purple cauliflower are great colorful substitutes.
- Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil for best flavor; avocado oil works well if preferred.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks - Easy, Healthy & Delicious are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks - Easy, Healthy & Delicious
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Prepare the Cauliflower: Remove leaves and trim bottom stem of cauliflower. Slice cauliflower crosswise into 3/4-inch thick 'steaks'. You should get about 3-4 steaks per head. Reserve loose florets for another use.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Make the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Coat the Steaks: Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with olive oil. Press each side into the breadcrumb mixture so the coating sticks well.
Expert Tips for Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks - Easy, Healthy & Delicious
- Use a sharp knife to slice cauliflower steaks cleanly and evenly.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the cauliflower to ensure it sticks well.
- Flip steaks carefully halfway through baking to crisp both sides evenly.
Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks - Easy, Healthy & Delicious
Enjoy easy, crispy baked cauliflower steaks that are perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. Fast to make and full of flavor, this recipe is a family favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
Optional Toppings
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Instructions
How to Make Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Remove leaves and trim bottom stem of cauliflower. Slice cauliflower crosswise into 3/4-inch thick 'steaks'. You should get about 3-4 steaks per head. Reserve loose florets for another use.
- Make the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Steaks: Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with olive oil. Press each side into the breadcrumb mixture so the coating sticks well.
- Bake to Crisp: Preheat oven to 425°F. Place steaks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Optionally, sprinkle with cheese last 5 minutes for extra melty topping.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks - Easy, Healthy & Delicious FAQs
Yes! You can prep and bread the steaks a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. Bake just before serving for best crispiness.
Nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan are great dairy-free alternatives that also add a cheesy flavor.
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.
To avoid sogginess, make sure the cauliflower is dry before coating and bake at a high temperature to crisp up the breading well.
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- creamy salmon pasta with mixed greens
- chicken Caesar pasta salad
- salmon, crispy potatoes & cheesy asparagus
Before You Go
If you try this Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks - Easy, Healthy & Delicious, I’d love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.