Roasted Cauliflower (Super Crispy) Recipe

Introduction

Roasted cauliflower becomes irresistibly crispy with this simple recipe that brings out its natural sweetness and adds a flavorful, spicy kick. Perfect as a snack or a side dish, it’s an easy way to enjoy a healthy vegetable with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs cauliflower, washed and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup olive oil, divided in half

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and place an empty baking sheet inside to heat. Prepare the cauliflower by cutting or tearing it into 3-inch florets, making sure each piece has a flat side to help develop a crispy crust.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with 1/4 cup of olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix thoroughly to coat all the pieces evenly.
3. Step 3: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven and drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil evenly across its surface.
4. Step 4: Arrange the cauliflower on the baking sheet with the flat sides down. This helps create maximum contact for crispiness.
5. Step 5: Roast the cauliflower for 25–30 minutes, flipping the pieces once about halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet so the cauliflower steams less and roasts more.
• Swap paprika for smoked paprika to add a smoky depth of flavor.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle fresh parsley after roasting for brightness.
• If you prefer less heat, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount.

Storage

Store leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it on a baking sheet and warm in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to help retain crispiness. Microwaving will make it soft and lose texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Frozen cauliflower tends to release more water when roasted, which can prevent crispiness. For best results, use fresh cauliflower.

How do I make the cauliflower less spicy?

Simply omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount to suit your taste. The paprika adds mild warmth without overwhelming heat.

Roasted Cauliflower (Super Crispy) Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.6 from 84 reviews

• Author: lilan
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This Roasted Cauliflower recipe delivers super crispy florets seasoned with a blend of garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Roasted at a high temperature with olive oil, the cauliflower develops a golden crust while maintaining a tender interior, making it a perfect healthy and flavorful side dish.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cauliflower

• 1.5 lbs Cauliflower (washed and cut to 3 inch pieces)

Seasonings

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Oils

• 1/2 cup olive oil, divided in half

---

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place an empty baking sheet inside to heat up. Meanwhile, cut or rip the cauliflower into 3-inch florets, ensuring each has a flat side to help develop a crispy crust during roasting.
2. Season the Cauliflower: Transfer the cauliflower into a large bowl. Add 1/4 cup of olive oil along with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated with the oil and spices.
3. Oil the Hot Baking Sheet: Once the baking sheet is hot, carefully remove it from the oven and place it on a heatproof surface. Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil evenly across the baking sheet.
4. Arrange Cauliflower on Baking Sheet: Add the seasoned cauliflower onto the baking sheet with the flat side down. This helps create maximum contact for crispiness during roasting.
5. Roast Until Crispy: Roast the cauliflower in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the florets once about halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness.

Notes

• Cut cauliflower into uniform sizes to promote even cooking.
• Ensure the baking sheet is sufficiently hot before adding the oil and cauliflower for a crispy texture.
• Flipping the florets halfway helps cook them evenly on all sides.
• Cayenne pepper is optional; adjust the spice level to your preference.
• Use kosher salt for better seasoning control and texture.
• For an extra crispy result, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Roasted Cauliflower, Crispy Cauliflower, Healthy Vegetable Side, Oven Roasted Vegetables, Gluten Free Side Dish, Vegetarian Recipe