Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful vegetarian dish that can stand on its own as a main course or complement your favorite protein, Roasted Cauliflower Steaks with Garlic Butter is the answer. Thick slices of cauliflower are roasted until golden brown and tender, then drizzled with a rich garlic butter sauce that elevates this humble vegetable into something elegant and delicious.
This recipe is simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor. It’s a fantastic way to showcase cauliflower in a new light—transforming it from a side dish into the star of the plate. Perfect for weeknight dinners, dinner parties, or even as a creative plant-based main course.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it proves that vegetables can be as satisfying as meat-based dishes when prepared the right way. The cauliflower develops a nutty, caramelized flavor from roasting, and the garlic butter adds richness and depth. It’s healthy yet indulgent, light yet filling, and most importantly—it’s absolutely delicious.
I also love how versatile this dish is. You can enjoy it as a vegetarian entrée with a fresh salad, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or pasta, or pair it with grilled meats for a complete feast. It’s a recipe that feels both fancy and comforting, which is why it’s one of my favorites.
Why This is a Must-Try Dish
- Flavor-packed & healthy – Roasting enhances cauliflower’s natural sweetness.
- Impressive yet simple – Looks restaurant-worthy, but takes minimal effort.
- Diet-friendly – Gluten-free, vegetarian, and can be made vegan by swapping butter for olive oil.
- Versatile – Perfect as a main dish, side, or even as a creative appetizer.
Preparation & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Servings: 4 (as a side) | 2 (as a main dish)
- Calories: ~180 per serving
Cuisine & Course
- Cuisine: Modern American / Mediterranean-inspired
- Course: Main Course, Side Dish, Vegetarian Dish
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (or olive oil for vegan option)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for flavor)
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional, for topping)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Simple Cooking Directions
- Slice cauliflower into thick “steaks.”
- Brush with olive oil, season, and roast until golden and tender.
- Make garlic butter by melting butter with garlic and spices.
- Drizzle garlic butter over roasted cauliflower.
- Garnish with parsley and Parmesan, then serve.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Cauliflower
- Remove the leaves and trim the stem of the cauliflower, keeping the core intact.
- Slice the cauliflower into 1½-inch thick steaks (you’ll get 2–3 steaks per head).
- Season the Steaks
- Place the cauliflower steaks on the baking sheet.
- Brush both sides generously with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Roast the Cauliflower
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and fork-tender.
- Make the Garlic Butter
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (but not burnt).
- Stir in chili flakes (optional).
- Assemble and Serve
- Drizzle the garlic butter over roasted cauliflower steaks.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, Parmesan, and lemon juice.
How to Serve This Recipe
- As a main dish with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
- As a side dish with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish.
- As a vegetarian entrée, pair with couscous, risotto, or pasta.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Keep cauliflower slices thick so they hold together while roasting.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—this helps cauliflower caramelize.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for extra freshness.
Variations
- Vegan: Swap butter for extra virgin olive oil or vegan butter.
- Cheesy: Sprinkle mozzarella or feta before roasting.
- Herby: Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the garlic butter.
- Spicy: Increase chili flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
Freezing & Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as cauliflower loses texture when frozen.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes to keep crisp.
Special Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet with parchment paper
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Small saucepan (for garlic butter)
- Pastry brush (for oiling cauliflower)
Conclusion
Roasted Cauliflower Steaks with Garlic Butter is proof that a simple vegetable can be elevated into a restaurant-worthy dish. With its nutty roasted flavor, buttery garlic richness, and vibrant herbs, this recipe is satisfying enough to be a main course yet versatile enough to serve as a side.
It’s easy, elegant, healthy, and utterly delicious—making it a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold flavors and creative vegetarian meals.
