This Easy Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower is a tasty side dish that’s simple to make. The cauliflower gets nice and crispy while soaking up the rich garlic butter flavor.
Honestly, who knew veggies could taste this good? I could munch on this all day—especially when it’s fresh out of the oven! 🤤 Just roast, season, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is key for this recipe. If you can’t find it, broccoli works well as a substitute. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to replace the fresh garlic.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and helps in roasting. You can use avocado oil if preferred, known for a higher smoking point.
How Do You Get Perfectly Roasted Cauliflower?
Roasting cauliflower to perfection means you want it tender inside and crispy outside. Here’s how to do just that:
- Start with a hot oven at 425°F (220°C) for a nice quick roast.
- Ensure to coat the cauliflower evenly with the butter-garlic mixture. This helps it caramelize beautifully.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Spread the florets out to ensure they roast, not steam.
- Turning the cauliflower halfway through cooking is crucial for even browning.
By following these tips, you’ll get deliciously crispy garlic butter cauliflower every time!
Easy 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
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven. So, in under an hour, you can have a delicious side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is perfect for getting your cauliflower nice and crispy.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic. Stir well to mix everything together. This will be the flavorful coating for your cauliflower!
3. Toss the Cauliflower:
Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl with the garlic butter mixture. Toss everything together until the florets are well-coated. You want every piece to soak up that delicious garlic flavor.
4. Prepare for Roasting:
Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded—this helps them roast evenly and brown beautifully.
5. Season:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the cauliflower to taste. This will enhance all the flavors.
6. Roast the Cauliflower:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, give the cauliflower a good turn so it browns evenly. You’ll know it’s done when it’s tender with golden, crispy edges.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s ready, take it out of the oven, and transfer the cauliflower to a serving dish. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious dish!
This Easy Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower makes a fantastic side dish that pairs well with almost any meal or even as a tasty snack on its own. Enjoy the amazing flavors and crispy texture!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to avoid extra moisture, ensuring it still gets crispy when roasted.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The flavor will change slightly but will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, making sure not to overcook so it stays crispy!
Can I Add Other Seasonings to the Cauliflower?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with spices. Paprika, cumin, or even Italian herbs would add an extra layer of flavor. Just sprinkle them in along with the salt and pepper!
