This Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower is a tasty and healthy side dish! The garlic and butter bring out the best flavors, making your kitchen smell fantastic while you roast it.
I love that this dish is super easy to make. Just toss the cauliflower in buttery goodness, roast, and enjoy. It’s a great way to get your veggies in without feeling like it’s a chore!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star ingredient! Look for a firm head of cauliflower with tightly packed florets. If you can’t find fresh cauliflower, frozen florets will work in a pinch; just adjust roasting time.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or vegan butter, which still achieves that rich flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for great flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work, but I recommend adding it earlier in the cooking process to develop its flavor.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice hint of smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a dash of chili powder can add a different twist!
Parmesan Cheese: I love using grated Parmesan for extra flavor, but nutritional yeast is an excellent dairy-free substitute if you need one. It adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do You Get Cauliflower Perfectly Roasted and Tender?
Roasting cauliflower to perfection means achieving a crispy outside while keeping it tender inside. The key is ensuring the pieces are evenly coated and spaced out on the baking sheet.
- Preheat your oven effectively—425°F (220°C) is hot enough to encourage browning.
- Make sure to toss the florets in the garlic butter mixture thoroughly, so each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate, leading to a crispy texture.
- Turn the cauliflower halfway through roasting. This simple step ensures even cooking and browning.
Enjoy your perfectly roasted cauliflower as a side dish or with your favorite protein. It’s a quick way to add a veggie boost to your meals!
Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a mild smoky flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to roast. So, you’ll need approximately 40 minutes total to have this tasty side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to get that nice golden, crispy texture on the cauliflower.
2. Mix the Garlic Butter:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the melted unsalted butter and add the minced garlic. Mix them together until well combined. This will give your cauliflower a delicious flavor!
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl. Toss them around in the garlic butter mixture until every piece is evenly coated. This ensures that all the florets soak up that lovely garlic flavor.
4. Spread on Baking Sheet:
Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup. Spread the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they’re not too crowded; this helps them roast nicely.
5. Season the Cauliflower:
Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it) over the top of the cauliflower. This will add extra flavor during roasting!
6. Roast in the Oven:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the cauliflower for 25-30 minutes. Remember to turn the florets halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
7. Add Cheese (Optional):
Once they’re golden brown and tender, take the baking sheet out of the oven. If you like, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the warm cauliflower for a final touch of flavor!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finish it off by garnishing with the chopped fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness! Serve the roasted cauliflower warm as a delicious and flavorful side dish that pairs well with almost anything.
Enjoy your tasty Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Olive Oil Instead of Butter?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option or want to reduce saturated fat, olive oil works great. Just use the same amount (4 tablespoons) and toss the cauliflower in it as you would with the melted butter.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can prep the cauliflower and mix it with the garlic butter in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the roasting time if roasting straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave it until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower?
This dish pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a vegetarian meal with grains like quinoa or couscous. You can also serve it alongside other roasted vegetables for a colorful and healthy spread!
