Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! Cauliflower is a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet. With its mild flavor and tender texture, it’s a great substitute for grains, meat, or even pizza crust. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful cauliflower recipes perfect for busy nights. From comfort food classics like mac and cheese and casseroles, to international-inspired dishes like tacos and curry, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And with cauliflower being so nutritious – it’s high in vitamins C and K, low in calories, and rich in antioxidants – you can feel good about what you’re serving up.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Add a flavorful twist to this cruciferous vegetable with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy side dish or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the cauliflower.
6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish packed with nutritious cauliflower and a hint of garlic, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add cooked pasta, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet with cauliflower. Toss to combine.
5. Pour in creamy sauce and toss everything together until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the comfort of buffalo wings with the crunch of roasted cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce ( Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 8 tacos shells
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Chopped cilantro
– Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, buffalo wing sauce, honey, and garlic powder.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing roasted cauliflower in a shell, topping with lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp
Transforming cauliflower into a flavorful and textured “rice” is a game-changer for low-carb diets. This recipe combines the magic of cauliflower rice with succulent shrimp, creating a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 2-3 minutes.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Add mixed vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Add cauliflower “rice” and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
A comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious twist on traditional cauliflower recipes. With its creamy sauce and melted cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cauliflower and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Pour mixture over cooked cauliflower and stir until combined.
4. Transfer cauliflower mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and healthy recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of cauliflower. By adding a zesty lemon-herb marinade, you’ll create a dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the cauliflower into 3-4 steaks, depending on size.
3. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
4. Add the cauliflower steaks to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the cauliflower for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired spices and fresh vegetables, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch. With the comforting warmth of turmeric and cumin, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cauliflower and chickpeas. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Cauliflower Mash with Bacon
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy, savory, and indulgent cauliflower mash loaded with crispy bacon bits.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head, remove leaves and stem, and cut into florets.
3. Toss with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, puree the roasted cauliflower with heavy cream/half-and-half until smooth and creamy.
6. Stir in crumbled bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If desired, top with grated cheddar cheese and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Veggie Toppings
Transform your pizza game with this low-carb, gluten-free cauliflower crust topped with colorful veggies! This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Toppings: your choice of roasted veggies (such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes) and other favorite toppings (e.g., olives, artichoke hearts)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a microwave-safe bowl, cook the cauliflower “rice” for 4 minutes.
5. Let cool, then mix with mozzarella cheese, almond flour, egg, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Form into a crust shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Top with your favorite veggies and bake an additional 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower and Broccoli Cheese Soup
Warm Up with a Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli Cheese Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring the subtle sweetness of cauliflower and broccoli, paired with the richness of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add cauliflower, broccoli, flour, broth, and 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree soup until smooth. Stir in remaining cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto
This recipe combines the best of both worlds – the tender, cheesy goodness of traditional gnocchi with the vibrant flavor and texture of pesto. Cauliflower gnocchi is a game-changer for those looking for a gluten-free and low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower “rice,” flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Knead the mixture on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it forms a sticky dough.
5. Roll out the dough into long ropes and cut into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. In a separate pan, heat the pesto sauce over medium heat with the olive oil. Add cooked gnocchi and toss to coat.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
A creative twist on a classic comfort food, this recipe combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the nutty flavor of roasted cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with 1 tbsp of butter, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, then gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Combine cooked macaroni and roasted cauliflower into the cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cauliflower and Spinach Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a modern twist by using cauliflower and spinach as the filling for stuffed shells. The result is a creamy, cheesy, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 head of cauliflower, cooked and mashed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed cauliflower, spinach leaves, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cauliflower-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Thai Peanut Cauliflower Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the creamy richness of peanuts with the crunch of cauliflower, all wrapped up in a savory and aromatic Thai-inspired sauce. Perfect as a side dish or main event, this stir-fry is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the cauliflower; cook for 5-7 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
5. Pour the peanut sauce over the cauliflower; toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts and scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
A creative twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this vegetarian version combines sautéed cauliflower and lentils with aromatic spices and a crispy mashed potato topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté cauliflower, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until tender.
3. Add cooked lentils and stir to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad
Roasted Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad Recipe
This vibrant salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted cauliflower with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all tied together with a tangy lemon vinaigrette. Perfect as a healthy side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted cauliflower, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Cauliflower and Mushroom Risotto
This rich and flavorful risotto combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the subtle sweetness of cauliflower, perfect for a cozy winter evening. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups of mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of Arborio rice
– 4 cups of vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add the mushrooms and cauliflower; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender (6-8 minutes).
3. Add the Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower Tacos with Avocado Crema
This recipe is a game-changer for vegetarians and veggie lovers alike. By using cauliflower as the “meat” in tacos, you’ll be surprised at how flavorful and satisfying this dish is.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Mash avocado, mix with sour cream, lime juice, and salt. Serve on top of cauliflower tacos.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (including prep time)
Cauliflower and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the creamy texture of roasted cauliflower with the bold flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla and smothered in a rich enchilada sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add black beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning cauliflower mixture onto a tortilla, followed by black bean mixture.
6. Roll up tortillas tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cauliflower Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
This recipe elevates the humble cauliflower to new heights by pairing it with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. The result is a deliciously savory and visually appealing dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves, stem, and core.
3. Cut the cauliflower into thick slabs, about 1 inch thick.
4. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
5. Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt to make the chimichurri sauce.
7. Serve the roasted cauliflower with the chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal prep game with these 20 flavorful cauliflower dinner recipes perfect for busy nights! From classic comfort foods like cheesy casserole and mac and cheese, to international-inspired dishes like Thai peanut stir-fry and Indian-style curry, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes are quick, easy, and adaptable to suit your dietary needs. Whether you’re a vegetarian, gluten-free, or just looking for a healthy meal option, this collection of cauliflower recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings.
