Name: Cheesy Cauliflower Nachos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon olive or avocado oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 5 cups cauliflower florets, cut into ½-inch slices; 1/3 cup refried beans; 3/4 cup shredded Mexican cheddar cheese; 1 jalapeno, sliced; 1/2 cup chopped grape or cherry tomatoes; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 avocado, sliced or chopped (optional)

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Introduction

These Cheesy Cauliflower Nachos are a delightful twist on a classic snack, offering a healthier and flavorful alternative to traditional tortilla chips. Packed with spices, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, they make for a perfect appetizer or light meal.

A dish arranged on a flat white surface with a white marbled texture background, showing about three layers: the base layer consists of roasted cauliflower pieces with a light golden-brown color and slightly crisp texture; the second layer includes creamy refried beans spread unevenly on the cauliflower; the top layer features melted cheese in yellow and white shades covering parts of the dish, scattered bright red cherry tomato halves, thin green jalapeño slices with visible seeds, small diced purple onion pieces, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro leaves adding green color and texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 Tablespoon olive or avocado oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
5 cups cauliflower florets, cut into ½-inch slices
1/3 cup refried beans
3/4 cup shredded Mexican cheddar cheese
1 jalapeno, sliced
1/2 cup chopped grape or cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 avocado, sliced or chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly spray a large baking sheet with olive or avocado oil cooking spray.
Step 2: Slice the cauliflower into ½-inch thick pieces evenly for roasting.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the oil with garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and sea salt. Add the cauliflower slices and toss gently to coat each piece well.
Step 4: Arrange the seasoned cauliflower on the baking sheet, spacing the pieces out so they roast rather than steam. Bake for 20 minutes until tender and starting to brown.
Step 5: Remove the pan from the oven and carefully push the cauliflower slices together in the center of the pan. Spread the refried beans over the cauliflower, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and top with jalapeno slices.
Step 6: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 6-7 minutes until the beans are warmed through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and immediately top with chopped tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Add sliced or chopped avocado if desired. Serve warm directly from the baking sheet, a platter, or in bowls.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add more jalapeno slices or a dash of hot sauce before serving.
Swap the refried beans for black beans or pinto beans for a different texture and flavor.
Use vegan cheese or omit cheese for a dairy-free version that’s just as tasty.
Adding a squeeze of lime juice over the top before serving brightens the flavors beautifully.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the nachos on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and the cheese is melted, about 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the cauliflower crispy.

How to Serve

The dish shows roasted cauliflower pieces as the bottom layer, with a golden-brown roasted texture. On top of the cauliflower is melted orange cheddar cheese, spreading over the florets. Small slices of green jalapeño peppers and red tomato chunks are scattered across the cheese. There are dollops of a brown bean paste and small pieces of chopped purple onion scattered around. Green chopped herbs and spring onions are sprinkled on top, adding a fresh contrast to the warm colors. The dish is presented on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower works best for roasting, you can use frozen cauliflower that has been thawed and drained well. Make sure to pat it dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent crisping.

What other toppings go well with these nachos?

Additional toppings like sliced black olives, sour cream, diced red or green bell peppers, or a sprinkle of chopped green onions complement these nachos nicely.