Cauliflower steaks that have been roasted or grilled are juicy and tender in the middle and crisp, lightly charred, caramelized, and crispy outside, making them the ideal vegan side dish or main to almost any meal!
When boiled or steamed, cauliflower may seem “boring” due to its relatively bland flavor; however, when placed in an oven, air fryer, or grill, this inexpensive, humble ingredient changes into a brand-new creation that everyone will adore!
The truth is that cauliflower’s neutral flavor is what gives it its wide range of uses in the first place, and it has also contributed to its popularity among low-carb and meat-free eaters. Process it to make cauliflower rice or low-carb cauliflower mash, or make buffalo cauliflower wings, pizza crust, or – of course – these roasted or grilled cauliflower steaks!
The high heat cooking techniques help cook the cauliflower until it is tender in the center but wonderfully caramelized, brown, and crisp on the outside, and grilling helps infuse it with an amazing extra “smoky” layer.
Additionally, this “base” cauliflower steak recipe only calls for a few inexpensive pantry staples, a sharp knife, and an oven or grill, but there are a ton of ways to customize it to your preferences with different seasonings and a variety of topping options.
If you’re looking for additional ways to enjoy cauliflower, try tahini cauliflower wings or a healthy version of roasted cauliflower soup.
When made simply, a cauliflower steak recipe only requires a few simple ingredients: olive oil, salt, and pepper. However, I’ve added a few more seasonings for an incredibly moreish flavor!
Bay leaves can help mask the smell of cooking cauliflower if you’re not a fan of it.
How to Make Grilled Cauliflower
Loaded Grilled Cauliflower 🔗
This grilled cauliflower from Delish.com is hearty enough for even the most stubborn carnivores.
Prep: 15min
Total: 50min
Ingredients:
- 2 large heads cauliflower
- 1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 c. shredded cheddar
- Ranch dressing, for drizzling
- 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp. finely chopped chives
Instruction:
- Remove and discard leaves from each cauliflower head, then trim stem so that the cauliflower can lie flat on cutting board. (Leave the core intact!)
- Cut each cauliflower into thick “steaks” about 3/4″ thick. Reserve any loose florets to cook with the steaks. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika. Season mixture with salt and pepper.
- Heat a grill or grill pan to medium. Brush one side of each steak with olive oil mixture and place the brushed side down on the grill. Brush the top sides with olive oil mixture and cook until tender and both sides are charred in spots, about 8 minutes per side. Top each cauliflower with cheese and cook until melty.
- Toss any extra florets in the olive oil mixture and grill, turning often, until charred and tender, about 6 minutes.
- Drizzle cauliflower with ranch dressing, then sprinkle cooked bacon and chives on top.
FAQ
How do you cut cauliflower for grilling?
How to Make Crispy CauliflowerPre-heat the oven to 450 F/ 232 C. Chop and toss the cauliflower with a little oil and your preferred seasonings. Sear the cauliflower on the stovetop over medium-high heat to get a crispy, browned exterior. Roast the cauliflower in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it is just tender throughout but still has crispy edges.
How do you make crispy roasted cauliflower?
Spread the cauliflower florets out in an even layer on the baking sheet, giving them a thorough rinse in a colander, shaking them dry, and reserving any small pieces of cauliflower that have fallen away from the florets in a small bowl.
How do you cut cauliflower for steak?
Spread the cauliflower florets out in an even layer on the baking sheet, giving them a thorough rinse in a colander, shaking them dry, and reserving any small pieces of cauliflower that have fallen away from the florets in a small bowl.
Should cauliflower be washed before roasting?
Spread the cauliflower florets out in an even layer on the baking sheet, giving them a thorough rinse in a colander, shaking them dry, and reserving any small pieces of cauliflower that have fallen away from the florets in a small bowl.