Name: Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking to win over even the most skeptical veggie eaters at the table, Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks are your golden ticket. This dish transforms humble cauliflower into dazzling, thick-cut “steaks” that are roasted until caramelized at the edges, then blanketed with a glorious duo of mozzarella and Parmesan. Bursting with savory, cheesy flavor and kissed with fragrant spices, Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks are as perfect for a weeknight dinner as they are for impressing friends at your next get-together. Get ready for a vegetarian dish that delivers major comfort food vibes—with a good-for-you twist!

Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the short ingredient list fool you—each component in Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks plays a starring role in flavor, texture, or color. These ingredients are pantry staples, but the magic is in how they come together for that sensational, cheesy finish.

Cauliflower: Use a large, fresh head for steaks that hold together well and roast up beautifully.
Olive oil: A generous brush ensures the steaks roast to crisp, golden perfection and keeps them tender inside.
Garlic powder: Adds a rich, mellow garlic flavor without overpowering the cauliflower.
Smoked paprika: Brings smoky depth and a hint of warmth—perfect for balancing the mild veggie base.
Salt: Essential for bringing out every savory note and reducing any bitterness in the cauliflower.
Black pepper: Offers a subtle peppery bite that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, stretchy coverage over each steak.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a nutty, salty punch and turns golden under the broiler.
Chopped parsley (optional): Lends fresh color and a mild herbal lift to finish the dish.

How to Make Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sturdy baking sheet with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, especially once the cheese gets wonderfully gooey.

Step 2: Slice the Cauliflower

Remove the green leaves and trim just enough off the stem so the cauliflower sits flat, but keep that core intact—it’s what helps the steaks stay together. With a sharp knife, slice straight down through the core to create those signature 3/4-inch thick steaks. Don’t worry about the florets that fall away; you can roast these alongside the big slices as tasty bite-sized nibbles.

Step 3: Season and Oil Up

Lay the steaks and any loose pieces onto your baking sheet. Brush each side generously with olive oil, ensuring every nook and cranny gets a gloss. Sprinkle evenly with the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper for big, bold flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Roast to Golden Perfection

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes, flipping the steaks gently halfway through. You’re looking for the cauliflower to turn tender but still hold its shape, with golden, caramelized edges that signal maximum flavor.

Step 5: Cheese It Up!

Remove the tray and, while the steaks are hot, heap each one with shredded mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. Return to the oven for another 5–7 minutes until the cheese is irresistibly melted, bubbling, and starting to brown in spots.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

If desired, finish the Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks with a shower of chopped parsley for fresh color and a hint of herby brightness. Serve immediately while the cheese is ultra-melty and everyone is ready to dig in!

How to Serve Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way in making Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks feel special. Fresh parsley is a classic choice, but you could also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a dusting of smoked paprika to compliment the roasted flavors. For an extra pop of color and zing, try a quick squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

Side Dishes

Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right sides. Serve alongside herby quinoa, a crisp green salad, or buttered brown rice for a balanced meal. If you’re craving comfort food, try roasted baby potatoes or creamy polenta on the side—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these savory slabs!

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks into the main event by stacking them with roasted tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, or tuck them into a hearty sandwich with pesto and grilled peppers. For a showstopping appetizer, cut the steaks into smaller pieces, secure with toothpicks, and serve them as cheesy, bite-sized hors d’oeuvres at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing. Place the Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The roasted flavors mellow and deepen, making them just as tasty reheated for lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

Want to freeze Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks? Absolutely! Arrange cooled steaks in a single layer between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results—the texture might soften, but the flavors remain delicious.

Reheating

For the tastiest results, pop the refrigerated (or thawed) steaks back into a 400°F oven until heated through and the cheese is bubbly, about 7–10 minutes. A quick zap in the microwave works in a pinch, but oven reheating will help the edges crisp up again, reviving that irresistible just-roasted vibe.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks?

Definitely! Feel free to swap in sharp cheddar, fontina, gouda, or your favorite cheese blend. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a perfect balance, but experimenting with other melting cheeses can make this dish your own.

What if my cauliflower steaks fall apart while slicing?

Don’t worry—a few florets breaking off is totally normal. Just arrange any small pieces around the steaks on the baking sheet and roast them all together. These crispy bits are a delicious chef’s treat!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks are naturally gluten-free, making them a wonderful option for guests with dietary restrictions or anyone following a gluten-free lifestyle.

Can I make Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare them in advance! Roast the cauliflower steaks and cool, then store in the fridge. Just add the cheese and reheat in the oven before serving for melty perfection whenever you need them.

How do I stop the cauliflower from getting soggy?

The key is roasting at a high temperature and not overcrowding your baking sheet. Give each steak some space so they roast (not steam) and develop those nutty, caramelized edges that make Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks so irresistible.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to fall in love with vegetables all over again, give Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks a spot on your table. This dish is simple, hearty, and loaded with comfort—plus it’s just plain fun to make and share! Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, you’ll be coming back for more, bite after cheesy bite.

Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 37 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Description

These Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks are a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that makes a perfect side. Roasted cauliflower slices topped with a blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese create a deliciously cheesy and low-carb treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks:

1 large head of cauliflower
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the cauliflower: Remove the leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem, keeping the core intact. Slice the cauliflower into 3/4-inch thick ‘steaks’.
Season and roast: Place the cauliflower steaks on the baking sheet, brush with olive oil, season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Add cheese: Top each steak with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then return to the oven for additional melting.
Finish and serve: Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.