Are you tired of the same old vegetable side dishes? Look no further! Cauliflower heads are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory soups to sweet treats. Whether you’re a foodie looking for new inspiration or a busy home cook seeking easy and delicious meal ideas, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering cauliflower head recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From comforting casseroles to bold and spicy dishes, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility of cauliflower heads. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for some tasty new ideas, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So grab your apron, get ready to cook, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of cauliflower head recipes!
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Head
Elevate your cauliflower game with this flavorful and aromatic roasted garlic parmesan cauliflower head recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower, leaves intact
– 2-3 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is best)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic cloves and olive oil.
4. Place the garlic mixture on top of the cauliflower head, spreading it evenly.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower Head Soup with Crispy Bacon
Transform a humble head of cauliflower into a rich and comforting soup, elevated by the smoky flavor of crispy bacon. This creamy delight is perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower head, then cut into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the drippings in the pot.
5. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened.
6. Add the roasted cauliflower, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Head Bites
Elevate your snack game with these addictive Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Head Bites. Crispy, spicy, and utterly delicious, this recipe is perfect for game day gatherings or anytime you need a flavorful fix.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove any leaves. Cut it into florets, then separate into individual “bites.”
3. In a bowl, mix together butter, Frank’s RedHot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the cauliflower bites to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
5. Roll each bite in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. If desired, sprinkle with cheddar cheese and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower Head Steak with Herb Butter
This recipe transforms cauliflower into a tender, flavorful “steak” by cooking it on high heat to caramelize the outside, while keeping the inside crispy and creamy. Serve with a rich herb butter for an unforgettable side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove any leaves or stems.
3. Cut the cauliflower into a thick “steak,” about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over high heat. Sear the cauliflower steak for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned and slightly charred.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chives.
7. Serve the roasted cauliflower steak with a pat of herb butter on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Head Casserole
This comforting casserole is a twist on traditional cheesy cauliflower recipes, featuring a roasted cauliflower head as the star of the show. With a rich and creamy sauce, crunchy breadcrumbs, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower head with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, paprika, and chopped onion. Simmer over medium heat until thickened.
5. Combine cooked cauliflower, cheese, and cream mixture in a large bowl. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cauliflower Head Fried Rice with Vegetables
A creative twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe replaces the usual rice with cauliflower “head” for a low-carb and nutritious take on a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (2-3 minutes).
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender-crisp (3-4 minutes).
5. Add cauliflower florets; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until tender and slightly browned.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Cauliflower Head
Lemon Herb Grilled Cauliflower Head Recipe
A bright and refreshing twist on the classic grilled cauliflower, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted cauliflower with the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove any leaves or stems. Cut it into florets.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and rosemary.
4. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the cauliflower for 10-12 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Cauliflower Head and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the earthy taste of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
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, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cauliflower, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Cauliflower Head Mash
This recipe transforms cauliflower into a creamy, flavorful side dish perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course. With the addition of garlic and butter, this mash is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cauliflower Head Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this innovative recipe that combines the flavors of Mexico and California. Crisp cauliflower “heads” are tossed with spices and lime juice, then wrapped in a crispy corn tortilla and topped with a creamy avocado-lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lime wedges, juiced
– 6 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced radishes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Cut the cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles grated cheese.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the cauliflower and toss until coated.
4. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning roasted cauliflower onto a warmed tortilla, topping with Avocado Lime Crema, and adding desired toppings.
Avocado Lime Crema:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Baked Cauliflower Head with Cheese Sauce
Transform plain cauliflower into a rich and creamy delight with this simple recipe. Perfect as a side dish or main course, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove any leaves or stems.
3. Toss the cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
5. In a saucepan, melt the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over low heat.
6. Add flour, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture; whisk until smooth.
7. Gradually add heavy cream to the cheese mixture, whisking constantly.
8. Remove the cauliflower from the oven and brush with the cheesy sauce.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower Head and Broccoli Gratin
A creamy, cheesy gratin that elevates roasted cauliflower and broccoli to a whole new level. This comforting side dish is perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Toss cauliflower and broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in a little olive oil until softened. Add roasted vegetables and stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and grated cheese. Pour the mixture over the vegetable mixture and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Cauliflower Head Pizza Crust
Say goodbye to traditional pizza crusts and hello to a healthier, gluten-free alternative made with cauliflower! This recipe yields a deliciously crispy and flavorful crust that’s perfect for your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a bowl, combine the processed cauliflower, mozzarella cheese, almond flour, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Shape into a circle or rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your Cauliflower Head Pizza Crust with your favorite toppings!
Cauliflower Head Alfredo Pasta
Transform a humble head of cauliflower into a decadent pasta dish with this simple and satisfying recipe. By roasting the cauliflower to bring out its natural sweetness, you’ll create a rich and creamy sauce that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cauliflower
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove leaves and stem.
3. Toss the cauliflower with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and golden brown.
4. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a saucepan, whisk together flour and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Combine roasted cauliflower with pasta and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cauliflower Head and Potato Hash
This hearty side dish combines the nutty flavor of roasted cauliflower with the comforting warmth of crispy potato hash. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a satisfying brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to brown.
5. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve roasted cauliflower alongside potato hash. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Smoky BBQ Cauliflower Head Wings
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this game-changing recipe! By transforming cauliflower into “wings” and smothering them in a tangy BBQ sauce, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into “wings” by separating the florets into clusters.
4. In a bowl, toss the cauliflower wings with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
5. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
7. Remove from oven and brush with BBQ sauce.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower Head and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the flavors of cauliflower, spinach, and ricotta cheese for a delicious and healthy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté cauliflower and spinach in olive oil until tender. Let cool.
4. In a bowl, combine cooked cauliflower mixture, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the cauliflower-spinach mixture.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cauliflower Head Rice Pilaf with Almonds
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional rice pilaf, using cauliflower “heads” as the base and adding crunchy almonds for added texture. The result is a healthy, flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Remove from oven and stir in chicken broth and toasted almonds.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower Head and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender cauliflower heads and nutritious lentils. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, and paprika (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cauliflower florets and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Add lentils, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cauliflower Head and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines the tender cauliflower head with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and ginger. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cauliflower head
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or stir-fry sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cut the cauliflower head into florets.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the mushrooms, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown (about 4-5 minutes).
4. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add soy sauce or stir-fry sauce for added flavor.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these mouthwatering cauliflower head recipes! From savory main courses to indulgent desserts, we’ve got you covered. Enjoy classic comfort food like Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Head or Cheesy Cauliflower Head Casserole, or spice things up with Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Head Bites or Smoky BBQ Cauliflower Head Wings. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty soup, a satisfying stir-fry, or a flavorful curry, we’ve got 20 delectable cauliflower head recipes to try on every occasion.
