This Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower is a tasty side dish that’s easy to whip up. The cauliflower gets all golden and crispy while soaking up that buttery garlic flavor!
Honestly, it’s so good you might forget it’s a veggie! I love serving it with dinner, and I can never resist sneaking a few bites before it’s time to eat. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: The main star! Look for a fresh, firm head without blemishes. If cauliflower isn’t available, you can try broccoli or Brussels sprouts as tasty swaps.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. If you’re dairy-free, use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. Coconut oil can also bring a unique flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best for that aromatic kick. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but you’ll need about 1 teaspoon instead of 3 cloves.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a subtle smoky touch. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can add a different but delicious depth.
How Do I Get the Cauliflower Perfectly Roasted?
Getting that golden, crispy cauliflower is all about roasting properly! Follow these steps for the best results:
- Preheat your oven to ensure a hot cooking environment. This helps with browning.
- Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow even roasting. Overcrowding will lead to steaming, not roasting!
- Flip the florets halfway through cooking. This promotes browning on all sides and helps achieve that crispy texture.
Check your oven as cooking times may vary. Keep an eye on the cauliflower toward the end and take it out when it’s golden and tender!
Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a subtle smoky flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 25-30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can enjoy this side dish in about 40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your cauliflower roasts evenly and gets a lovely golden color.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Give it a good stir until everything is mixed well.
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
Dump the cauliflower florets into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the florets. Then, toss everything together until all the florets are nicely coated with the buttery goodness.
4. Arrange for Roasting:
Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on a lined baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded for the best roasting results.
5. Roast the Cauliflower:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cauliflower for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip the florets halfway through cooking to make sure they get crunchy and golden on all sides.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cauliflower is done and beautifully roasted, take it out of the oven. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and add grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve warm and enjoy this tasty side dish!
Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with paper towels before roasting. This helps prevent excess moisture, which can make the cauliflower soggy.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. Coconut oil also works well for a different flavor twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave for quick reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in or substitute other veggies like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and type of vegetables used; adjust accordingly to ensure even roasting.
