Loaded Roasted Cauliflower

Tender, caramelized roasted cauliflower is loaded with tangy ranch, crisp bacon, fresh green onions, and sharp cheddar cheese for an addicting side dish!

Ingredients

  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 heads of cauliflower, leaves removed, broken/cut into small florets
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1/3 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 green onions, sliced thinly
  • 1/3 cup ranch dressing (see notes)
  • Additional salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crisp. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, and set aside. Reserve 1/4 cup of bacon grease. 
  2. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower, bacon grease, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss to combine.
  4. Spread cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet, and then bake in preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, flipping once halfway through. The cauliflower should be tender and golden brown when ready.
  5. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top of the cauliflower, and bake an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
  6. Remove from oven, and top the cauliflower with the crumbled bacon and green onions, and drizzle on the ranch dressing. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • If your bacon isn’t fatty enough to produce enough grease, supplement with a high-smoke point oil, like avocado oil or grapeseed oil.
  • Use whatever homemade or store-bought ranch dressing is your favorite. 

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