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Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

4.1 from 30 reviews

This Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower recipe features tender, golden-brown cauliflower florets coated in a flavorful garlic butter mixture and roasted to perfection. Enhanced with optional Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and fresh parsley, this easy side dish offers a delightful balance of savory and slightly tangy notes, perfect for serving alongside your favorite main courses.

Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

Garlic Butter Mixture

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Finishing Touches

  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray for easy cleanup to ensure the cauliflower doesn’t stick and roasts evenly.
  2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika if desired. Allow the mixture to sit for a minute so the flavors can infuse into the butter.
  3. Coat the Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over them, then toss well until all pieces are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
  4. Roast the Cauliflower: Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, turning the florets halfway through cooking. Roast until the cauliflower is tender, golden brown, and has slightly crispy edges.
  5. Add Finishing Touches: Remove the cauliflower from the oven. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if using, drizzle with lemon juice for brightness, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

Notes

  • Cut cauliflower into uniform-sized florets to ensure even roasting.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to allow proper browning instead of steaming.
  • Toss the cauliflower halfway through roasting for even caramelization.
  • Use high heat (425°F) for the perfect balance between tenderness and crispy edges.
  • Add Parmesan cheese only after roasting to prevent burning.

Keywords: garlic butter roasted cauliflower, roasted cauliflower recipe, easy vegetarian side dish, Parmesan cauliflower, oven roasted vegetables