Golden Crispy Cauliflower Bites

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these cauliflower bites offer a lighter option without compromising on taste.

  • Versatile Snack: Perfect for game days, parties, or as a side dish to your main course.

  • Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for novice cooks.

  • Customizable Flavor: Adjust the seasoning or dipping sauce to suit your personal preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for spicier bites)

  • 1 cup Panko bread crumbs

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (for Buffalo sauce, optional)

  • 1/4 cup butter, melted (for Buffalo sauce, optional)

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (for Herby Yogurt Dip)

  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (for Herby Yogurt Dip)

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for Herby Yogurt Dip)

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top for even crisping.

  2. Prepare the Coatings:

    • Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and 1 tablespoon of hot sauce (if using).
    • Breadcrumb Mixture: In another bowl, combine Panko bread crumbs, parsley, salt, and black pepper.

  3. Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet or rack.

  4. Bake: Bake the cauliflower for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, flip each floret to ensure even browning, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.

  5. Optional Buffalo Sauce: While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the Buffalo sauce by mixing 1/2 cup hot sauce with 1/4 cup melted butter. Once the cauliflower is done, toss the bites in the sauce and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

  6. Prepare the Herby Yogurt Dip: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

  7. Serve: Once the cauliflower bites are ready, serve them hot alongside the herby yogurt dip.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for extra heat.

  • Cheesy Delight: Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy flavor.

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.

  • Vegan Version: Replace eggs with a plant-based milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour, and use vegan mayonnaise and yogurt for the dip.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Place any leftover cauliflower bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat the bites in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may result in a soggy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cauliflower bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and coat the cauliflower florets in advance, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This can be done up to a day ahead.

2. What other dipping sauces pair well with these bites?

Apart from the herby yogurt dip, ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or a spicy sriracha mayo are excellent choices.

3. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of Panko?

Yes, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but Panko provides a lighter, crunchier texture.

4. How can I make the bites extra crispy?

Ensure the cauliflower florets are dry before coating, and consider using a wire rack during baking to allow air circulation around the bites.

5. Is it possible to air fry these cauliflower bites?

Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the coated florets in a single layer for about 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

6. Can I freeze the cooked cauliflower bites?

While it’s possible to freeze them, they may lose some crispiness upon reheating. If you choose to freeze, reheat them in the oven to help regain

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Golden Crispy Cauliflower Bites

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

Golden, crispy, and irresistibly flavorful, these baked cauliflower bites are a healthier alternative to fried snacks. Coated in Panko breadcrumbs and paired with a tangy herby yogurt dip, these cauliflower bites are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Customize the flavor with spicy Buffalo sauce or enjoy them as-is for a crunchy, satisfying bite!

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for spicier bites)
  • 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (for Buffalo sauce, optional)
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted (for Buffalo sauce, optional)
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (for Herby Yogurt Dip)
  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (for Herby Yogurt Dip)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for Herby Yogurt Dip)

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top for even crisping.

  • Prepare the Coatings:

    • Egg Mixture: Whisk together the eggs and 1 tablespoon of hot sauce (optional).
    • Breadcrumb Mixture: Combine Panko bread crumbs, parsley, salt, and black pepper in another bowl.

  • Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Arrange the coated florets on the baking sheet or wire rack.

  • Bake: Bake the cauliflower for 15 minutes. Flip each floret to ensure even browning, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.

  • Optional Buffalo Sauce: For a spicy touch, mix 1/2 cup hot sauce with 1/4 cup melted butter. Toss the baked cauliflower bites in the sauce and return to the oven for 5 more minutes.

  • Prepare the Herby Yogurt Dip: Mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and 1 tablespoon chopped parsley in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

  • Serve: Serve the crispy cauliflower bites hot, alongside the herby yogurt dip.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Coat the cauliflower florets and refrigerate for up to a day before baking.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star