This Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower is a tasty side dish that’s both soft and crunchy. Toss cauliflower florets in melted butter and garlic, then roast until golden!
Oh, the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen is just unbeatable! I love serving this cauliflower alongside my favorite main dishes. It’s an easy and delicious way to eat veggies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Using a large head guarantees plenty of florets to enjoy. If cauliflower isn’t available, try broccoli or Brussels sprouts for a tasty substitution. They roast well in the same way.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds rich flavor, but feel free to use olive oil for a dairy-free option. It also brings a different taste while still enhancing the garlic. I often switch it up depending on what I have at home.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that punchy flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but you’ll want to use about 1 teaspoon for each clove. Just remember that the taste won’t be quite as vibrant!
Fresh Parsley: This adds freshness and color on top. You can substitute it with thyme or even basil if you’re out of parsley. Both bring their own unique flavor.
How Can I Get My Cauliflower Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting cauliflower to perfection is about crispiness and flavor. Here are tips to nail this step:
- Ensure your cauliflower florets are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Add a generous amount of garlic to the melted butter. This helps infuse the cauliflower with garlicky goodness.
- Roasting at a high temperature is crucial. This allows the edges to caramelize beautifully, deepening the flavor.
- Turn the florets halfway through to make sure they get that nice golden brown all over.
Following these steps will give you crispy, flavorful garlic butter roasted cauliflower that everyone will love!
How to Make Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a slight heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to roast. In total, you should plan for around 40 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to getting that beautiful roast on the cauliflower!
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
Wash the cauliflower under running water to remove any dirt, then dry it thoroughly. Cut it into bite-size florets, ensuring they’re roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter with the minced garlic. Stir it well so the garlic is nicely mixed into the butter.
4. Toss the Cauliflower:
Add the cauliflower florets into the bowl with the garlic butter. Toss everything together until all the florets are evenly coated in that yummy mixture.
5. Season the Florets:
Now, sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the coated cauliflower. Toss again to ensure the seasoning is well distributed.
6. Roast the Cauliflower:
Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. This helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to turn the florets halfway through to achieve a nice golden color all over.
7. Finishing Touches:
Once roasted, take the cauliflower out of the oven and transfer it to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and if you like, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the garlic butter roasted cauliflower warm as a delicious side dish. It pairs well with almost any meal! Enjoy every bite of the buttery, garlicky goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess moisture before tossing it with the garlic butter. Roasting times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it while it cooks.
How Do I Store Leftover Roasted Cauliflower?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or on a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This will help retain its crispiness!
Can I Adjust the Seasoning?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. You can also add extra spices such as paprika, garlic powder, or even some Parmesan cheese for added flavor!
What Can I Serve This Cauliflower With?
This garlic butter roasted cauliflower is a versatile side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta, or even as part of a vegetarian meal. Try serving it alongside chicken, steak, or fish for a delightful combination!
