Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower Steaks with Bacon

Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower Steaks with Bacon

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower
• 2-3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the cauliflower:
   • Remove the outer leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem, but leave the core intact.
   • Slice the cauliflower into thick steaks, about 3/4-inch to 1-inch thick. Depending on the size of your cauliflower, you should get about 4-6 steaks. If there are any smaller florets that fall off, you can roast them alongside the steaks.
3. Season the cauliflower:
   • Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast the cauliflower:
   • Place the cauliflower steaks on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender.
5. Add the cheese and bacon:
   • Once the cauliflower steaks are roasted, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of each steak.
   • Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the melted cheese.
6. Garnish and serve:
   • Remove the cauliflower steaks from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
   • Serve immediately as a side dish or main course.

Notes:

• Vegetarian Option: You can skip the bacon for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as mozzarella, Parmesan, or a mix of cheeses.
• Serving Suggestions: These cauliflower steaks pair well with a simple green salad or a grain like quinoa or rice.

This dish is a delicious way to elevate cauliflower into a hearty, cheesy delight. Enjoy!