Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower Steaks are one of the easiest and most flavorful side dishes you can make. With their golden edges, tender centers, and rich buttery flavor, these cauliflower slices are the perfect low-carb alternative to potatoes, fries, or heavy casseroles. Whether you serve them with chicken, steak, seafood, or enjoy them as a vegetarian main dish, these roasted cauliflower steaks always impress.
What Are Cauliflower Steaks?
Cauliflower steaks are thick slices cut from the center of a whole cauliflower head. Instead of breaking the cauliflower into florets, the vegetable is sliced vertically into “steaks.” This gives a larger surface area for roasting, allowing the cauliflower to caramelize beautifully in the oven. The result is a tender, flavorful, and elegant dish that feels gourmet but is incredibly simple to prepare.
Ingredients You Need
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but delicious)
How to Cut Cauliflower Steaks
Cutting cauliflower steaks is easy, but there are a few tips to avoid crumbling:
- Remove the outer leaves from the cauliflower head.
- Trim the very bottom of the stem but keep the core — this holds the slices together.
- Place the cauliflower on a cutting board, stem-side down.
- Slice it into 1–1.5 inch thick “steaks.”
- The two outer edges may fall apart; you can still roast the extra pieces.
Instructions: How to Make Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower Steaks
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
A hot oven is the secret to caramelized, crispy edges.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, mix:
- Melted butter
- Olive oil
- Minced garlic
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Onion powder
Stir well until combined.
3. Brush Cauliflower Steaks
Place the cauliflower slices on a lined baking sheet.
Brush both sides with the garlic butter mixture.
Make sure the edges and tops are well coated.
4. Roast Until Golden
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flip, then bake another 15 minutes.
The cauliflower should be:
- Golden brown
- Tender inside
- Slightly crispy on the edges
5. Add Optional Parmesan
For extra flavor, sprinkle Parmesan over the cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of baking.
6. Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh parsley or extra black pepper and serve hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly
A great replacement for potatoes and other starches.
✔ Simple Ingredients
You probably already have everything you need at home.
✔ Perfect Texture
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and full of flavor.
✔ Versatile Dish
Serve as a side or a main dish with a big salad.
Tips for Perfect Cauliflower Steaks
1. Don’t Skip the High Heat
425°F is ideal for caramelized edges.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
If the steaks are too close, they will steam instead of roast.
3. Use Melted Butter + Oil
Butter gives flavor, oil prevents burning.
4. Add Lemon
A squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens the dish.
What to Serve with Cauliflower Steaks
These roasted cauliflower steaks pair perfectly with:
- Grilled chicken
- Baked salmon
- Steak or roast beef
- Pasta dishes
- Rice bowls
- Fresh green salads
They are also great as a vegetarian main dish topped with:
- Marinara sauce
- Pesto
- Tahini sauce
- Yogurt garlic sauce
Storage & Reheating
How to Store
Place leftovers in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How to Reheat
- Oven: 10 minutes at 375°F
- Air fryer: 5 minutes at 350°F
They become crispy again when reheated properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
No — frozen cauliflower will not slice into steaks. Use fresh only.
What if my cauliflower falls apart?
Just roast the broken pieces as “roasted cauliflower bites.” Still delicious.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, Parmesan or mozzarella is excellent.
Is this recipe vegan?
Use plant-based butter to make it 100% vegan.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower Steaks are a beautiful, simple, and flavorful dish that works for any meal. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner or preparing a holiday side, these golden cauliflower slices always impress. With their crispy edges, rich garlic butter coating, and perfect tenderness, they will definitely become a household favorite.
If you love easy, delicious, and healthy recipes — this one is a must-try!