Name: Cauliflower Steak
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large heads cauliflower; ¼ cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup chimichurri sauce (homemade or store-bought); Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional); Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

If you're searching for a showstopper veggie main, this Cauliflower Steak is absolutely dreamy! Thick slabs of cauliflower are roasted until caramelized and golden, then drizzled with a zesty, herby chimichurri sauce. The result? A dish that's crisp at the edges, tender inside, and bursting with savory goodness.

This recipe is a total game-changer for anyone craving a satisfying, plant-based meal without a ton of fuss. It's bold, beautiful, and so simple-perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or as an impressive vegan centerpiece at your next gathering.

Inspired by favorite restaurant dishes, this cauliflower steak proves veggies can steal the show. It's hearty enough to please everyone at the table, whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to eat more plants!

Golden roasted cauliflower steaks on a platter with chimichurri sauce

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Satisfying: Thick-cut cauliflower steaks are meaty, filling, and so craveable.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and hands-off roasting make this a perfect weeknight option.
Versatile: Dress them up with your favorite sauces, toppings, or sides.
Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free: Fits a variety of diets, making it ideal for gatherings.

Key Ingredients for Cauliflower Steak

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cauliflower

The star of the recipe! Opt for a large, firm head of cauliflower to get nice, thick steaks that hold together well during roasting. Remove the outer leaves and trim the stem so the head sits flat, but leave the core intact-that's what keeps the steaks together. Smaller heads work too, but you'll get fewer steaks. If a steak breaks, don't worry-just roast the florets alongside.

Olive Oil

Olive oil helps the cauliflower steaks brown and crisp up beautifully in the oven, while adding a subtle, fruity richness. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, but any good-quality oil will do. If you prefer, avocado oil is a great substitute for its high smoke point.

Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika adds an irresistible smoky depth, taking the flavor to the next level. It's worth seeking out for this recipe, but if you don't have it, regular paprika or chili powder will work in a pinch. For more heat, try a pinch of cayenne.

Garlic Powder

Garlic powder infuses the roasted cauliflower with savory warmth, without the risk of burning fresh garlic. You can swap in onion powder or use both for an extra punch.

Chimichurri Sauce

A fresh, herby chimichurri brightens up the dish and complements the roasted cauliflower perfectly. You can use homemade or store-bought, or try pesto or tahini drizzle as a delicious alternative.

Instructions for Cauliflower Steak

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Remove the outer leaves and trim the base of each cauliflower head, leaving the core intact.

Slice Into Steaks

With a sharp knife, slice each cauliflower head vertically into ¾- to 1-inch thick steaks. You should get 2-3 large steaks per head. Don't worry if some florets fall off-just roast those alongside.

Season and Oil the Steaks

Place the cauliflower steaks and any loose florets on the baking sheet. Whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Brush the mixture generously over both sides of each steak.

Roast to Perfection

Roast the cauliflower steaks for 20 minutes, then gently flip them with a spatula. Continue roasting for another 10 to 15 minutes, until golden brown, tender, and crispy at the edges.

Top and Serve

Transfer the roasted steaks to a serving platter. Spoon chimichurri sauce over the top and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish.

Recipe Variations

Make It Spicy

Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the oil mixture if you love a bit of heat! You can also use a spicy harissa sauce instead of chimichurri for a North African twist.

Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks

Right after roasting, sprinkle the steaks with grated Parmesan or vegan cheese and pop them under the broiler until melty and golden. It adds a savory, umami boost that's hard to resist.

Mediterranean-Inspired

Swap the chimichurri for a drizzle of tahini sauce and top with toasted pine nuts, fresh mint, and pomegranate seeds for a vibrant, Mediterranean vibe.

BBQ Flavor

Brush the steaks with your favorite barbeque sauce instead of the oil mixture, then roast as directed. Serve with extra sauce on the side for a Southern-inspired meal.

Gluten-Free and Paleo

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and easily fits paleo diets. Just check your sauce ingredients or make your own to keep everything compliant.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cauliflower steaks as a main dish alongside fluffy quinoa, rice pilaf, or creamy mashed potatoes. For extra color and crunch, add a simple green salad or roasted chickpeas. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for an extra pop of flavor and brightness.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cauliflower steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy. You can also microwave for a minute or two, but the texture will be softer. Freezing isn't recommended, as the cauliflower can become mushy when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cauliflower Steak (FAQ)

Q: How do I stop my cauliflower steaks from falling apart?

A: Use a large, fresh cauliflower and cut thick (1-inch) steaks, keeping the core intact. Even if some pieces break off, you can still roast the florets for a tasty snack or side.

Q: Can I grill cauliflower steaks instead of roasting?

A: Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium-high, brush the steaks with oil and seasoning, and grill for 6-8 minutes per side until tender and charred.

Q: Is cauliflower steak filling enough for a main course?

A: Yes! Cauliflower steaks are surprisingly hearty, especially when paired with protein-rich sides like beans, quinoa, or a hearty salad.

Whether you're a veggie lover or just looking for a fresh dinner idea, these Cauliflower Steaks will win you over with their bold flavor and unbeatable texture. Give this recipe a try, and don't forget to leave a comment or rating to let me know how it turned out for you!

★★★★★ 4.70 from 138 ratings