• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Vanilla Bean Cuisine logo
  • Recipe Index
  • About Molly
  • Subscribe
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • About Molly
  • Subscribe
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipe Index
  • About Molly
  • Subscribe
×
Home » Best Of » Cauliflower recipes that aren’t pizza crust

Cauliflower recipes that aren’t pizza crust

Modified: Aug 2, 2025 by Molly Pisula · Published: Aug 3, 2025 · As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Share
  • Twitter
  • Flipboard

Looking to enjoy the delicious versatility of cauliflower without resorting to the usual pizza crust? Then you've come to the right place! This roundup of creative cauliflower recipes will expand your culinary horizons and prove that this humble vegetable is more than just a pizza stand-in.

From savory side dishes to main courses and even snacks, these recipes will make you see cauliflower in a whole new light.

Roasted cauliflower in green herb sauce

Roasted cauliflower in green herb sauce
Image via An Immigrant's Table

Drawing inspiration from the flavorsome chimichurri, our roasted cauliflower in green herb sauce offers a delightful way to repurpose leftover greens. This quick and easy side dish is sure to elevate your weeknight meals. With its simple preparation and hearty taste, it invites you to a comforting dining experience.

Get The Recipe.

Roasted cauliflower casserole with tomatoes and capers

Roasted cauliflower casserole with tomatoes and capers
Image via An Immigrant's Table

Cozy up to a hearty serving of our roasted cauliflower, tomato, and capers casserole this weekend. Each cauliflower floret is gently roasted to draw out its authentic flavor, effortlessly complemented by the juicy burst of ripe tomatoes. For those who savor a vegetable-forward meal, this comforting dish is just right. A dash of capers adds a delightful tang that dances on your palate with each savory bite.

Get The Recipe.

Twice Baked Cauliflower: Creamy and Cheesy

Twice Baked Cauliflower: Creamy and Cheesy
Image via CopyKat Recipes

Experience the delightful flavors of our Twice Baked Cauliflower Casserole, an irresistibly delicious side dish perfect for your evening meal. It's not only packed with taste, but also remarkably low in carbs and keto-friendly. We invite you to indulge in this savory treat that effortlessly combines health and satisfaction.

Get The Recipe.

Chilled Veggie Pizza Using Crescent Rolls: Shortcut Recipe

Chilled Veggie Pizza Using Crescent Rolls: Shortcut Recipe
Image via Gimme From Scratch

Welcome to an effortlessly easy and delightfully delicious appetizer, using store-bought crescent rolls as a fuss-free crust. The topping is a vibrant garden of broccoli, white and purple cauliflower, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and green onions that creates an eye-catching display. Underneath, you'll discover a lush, creamy "sauce" made of cream cheese, mayo, and sour cream, adding an irresistible depth of flavor.

Get The Recipe.

Smoked Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce

Smoked Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce
Image via Or Whatever You Do

Discover the bold, smoky charm of smoked cauliflower paired with a velvety, homemade cheese sauce. This clever recipe skips the processed cheese in favor of a silky-smooth sauce made with sodium citrate, unlocking rich flavor and a dreamy texture from your favorite cheeses. It’s a keto-friendly, low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on taste—perfect as a snack, side, or creative appetizer for any crowd.

Get The Recipe.

Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks

Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks
Image via Running To The Kitchen

Step into bold flavor with roasted buffalo cauliflower steaks, topped with a cool, creamy blue cheese coleslaw. This vibrant dish delivers all the zesty punch of buffalo wings, balanced by fresh, veggie-forward goodness. Whether you're planning for game day or simply craving something a little different, it’s a satisfying twist that’s as hearty as it is wholesome.

Get The Recipe.

Bison and Cheddar Cauliflower Steaks

Bison and Cheddar Cauliflower Steaks
Image via Running To The Kitchen

Thick-cut cauliflower steaks topped with melted cheddar cheese, served with sautéed bison, crimini mushrooms, and leeks. A comforting harmony of flavors that delivers home-cooked comfort food at its best.

Get The Recipe.

Broccoli Cauliflower Gratin

Broccoli Cauliflower Gratin
Image via Running To The Kitchen

Experience the exquisite blend of flavors in our delightful broccoli cauliflower parmesan gratin, where every mouthful is a celebration of taste. The generous sprinkling of cheese and breadcrumbs elevates this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Come, indulge in this most tantalizing rendition of these humble vegetables we've ever created. You're sure to love it!

Get The Recipe.

Salt and Vinegar Popcorn Cauliflower

Salt and Vinegar Popcorn Cauliflower
Image via Running To The Kitchen

For those with a fondness for popcorn shrimp, we invite you to try our delightful salt and vinegar popcorn cauliflower. This dish offers the same irresistible flavors but in a healthier package. You'll find it to be just as addictively delicious, yet it carries the added benefit of being a nutritious choice. Come, savor the taste, and indulge in a guilt-free delight.

Get The Recipe.

Winter Vegetable Curry

Winter Vegetable Curry
Image via Running To The Kitchen

Winter vegetable curry brings satisfying vegetarian comfort packed with tender butternut squash, fresh cauliflower, nutritious Tuscan kale, and protein-rich chickpeas. This hearty meal delivers rich flavors and complex textures that make it completely satisfying and filling. The warming spices and wholesome vegetables create a dish that's perfect for cold days when you want something nourishing and comforting. Simple to prepare yet deeply flavorful, this curry proves that vegetarian meals can be just as hearty and satisfying as any meat-based dish.

Get The Recipe.

Creamy Cauliflower Pumpkin Mash

Creamy Cauliflower Pumpkin Mash
Image via Running To The Kitchen

Enjoy the cozy goodness of our cauliflower pumpkin mash, blended with silky mascarpone for a rich, velvety texture. Finished with a crunchy topping of vanilla granola and pecans, it’s a lighter twist on sweet potato casserole that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This wholesome dish brings comfort and nourishment to any fall table.

Get The Recipe.

Cheddar Cauliflower Burgers

Cheddar Cauliflower Burgers
Image via Running To The Kitchen

Try our satisfying vegetarian cauliflower burgers, packed with melty cheddar and topped with vibrant pickled red cabbage. A spoonful of zesty cilantro pesto ties everything together for a meal that’s hearty, fresh, and full of flavor. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, these burgers are sure to hit the spot.

Get The Recipe.

Air Fryer Gnocchi

Air Fryer Gnocchi
Image via Running To The Kitchen

Experience the joy of making a delightful cauliflower gnocchi using the simplest of methods—your trusty air fryer. Regardless of whether you're a Trader Joe's fan or prefer another brand, this recipe is sure to yield the perfect, crispy gnocchi every time. Serve it up as a tantalizing appetizer or a satisfying main dish and enjoy the pleasure of a well-made meal.

Get The Recipe.

Buffalo Turkey Cauliflower Skillet

Buffalo Turkey Cauliflower Skillet
Image via Running To The Kitchen

Welcome to the simplicity of our 4-ingredient Buffalo Turkey Cauliflower Skillet. This delightful dish is not just quick and effortless, but also full of healthy goodness. Its versatility makes it a wonderful dinner option and a fantastic choice for meal-prepping throughout the week. We invite you to enjoy this flavorful and nourishing dish.

Get The Recipe.

Cauliflower Bacon Gratin

Cauliflower Bacon Gratin
Image via Running To The Kitchen

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our delectable cauliflower gratin. We bake fresh cauliflower until it's perfectly tender, then we add savory pieces of salty bacon. The dish is then smothered in our creamy, irresistible gratin sauce. We invite you to savour this mouth-watering feast that's sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

Get The Recipe.

Bang Bang Cauliflower

Bang Bang Cauliflower
Image via Running To The Kitchen

Bang Bang Cauliflower is about to be your new favorite appetizer. These delightfully crispy, pan-fried morsels of cauliflower are lovingly enveloped in a sauce that dances the line between sweet and spicy. This dish is truly irresistible, teasing your taste buds with every bite.

Get The Recipe.

Simple Stir Fry Cauliflower Recipe: Sichuan Style

Simple Stir Fry Cauliflower Recipe: Sichuan Style
Image via Sassy Chopsticks

Discover the bold simplicity of stir-fried cauliflower—a quick, flavor-packed dish that pairs the veggie’s natural sweetness with a hint of spice and irresistible crunch. It’s fast, versatile, and perfect for busy nights when you still want something exciting on the table. Let this easy favorite become a regular part of your kitchen rotation.

Get The Recipe.

Cauliflower Gratin

Cauliflower Gratin
Image via Stetted

Experience the magic of transforming humble cauliflower into a scrumptious cheesy delight with this cauliflower gratin recipe. The crowning glory of a buttery panko topping is an essential step you won't want to miss. This dish is sure to comfort and impress with its irresistible blend of flavors. Come, indulge in this culinary experience!

Get The Recipe.

Cauliflower Curry

Cauliflower Curry
Image via Stetted

Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of our simple yet delectable cauliflower curry. This vegetarian delight is lovingly simmered with an array of spices, ripe tomatoes, and creamy coconut milk. To truly savor this meal, we recommend pairing it with fluffy rice and warm naan. Welcome to a feast for your senses!

Get The Recipe.

Cauliflower Tacos

Cauliflower Tacos
Image via Stetted

Craving a delightful twist for your upcoming taco night? Consider the roasted cauliflower tacos, lovingly tossed in your cherished taco seasonings. They make a splendid meatless alternative, adding a unique charm to your meal. Trust us, they're as delicious as they sound!

Get The Recipe.

Pickled Cauliflower

Pickled Cauliflower
Image via Stetted

Revel in the tangy crunch of our pickled cauliflower recipe, a delightful enhancement to your relish tray. This simple recipe, as effortless as it is delicious, is ready to be prepared in mere minutes. Best of all, there's absolutely no need for blanching, making it a welcoming invitation for all home cooks.

Get The Recipe.

Airfryer Buffalo Cauliflower Tots

Airfryer Buffalo Cauliflower Tots
Image via The Creative Bite

Enjoy a delightful twist on classic tots with our buffalo cauliflower tots. Basking in a flavorful blend of spices, these tots offer a healthier alternative without compromising on taste. They're lovingly prepared in an air fryer, ensuring a lighter snack or side dish. This recipe is an invitation to enjoy a guilt-free, mouthwatering treat.

Get The Recipe.

Light Taco Cauliflower Tot Hotdish

Light Taco Cauliflower Tot Hotdish
Image via The Creative Bite

Experience a warm and delightful twist on a traditional hotdish with this lighter version, featuring the unique combination of cauliflower tots and tantalizing taco flavors. This healthier adaptation retains all the comforting goodness of your favorite dish, making it an excellent choice for a cozy family dinner. Come, indulge, and savor the burst of flavors in every bite.

Get The Recipe.

Grilled Cauliflower

Grilled Cauliflower
Image via The Kitchen Magpie

Transform your ordinary cauliflower into a mouthwatering masterpiece by grilling it to perfection. Infuse it with aromatic garlic, a sprinkle of spicy chili powder, and a squeeze of fresh lemon to elevate the flavors. Once grilled, it turns into a crispy yet tender delight that your entire family will adore. Come, let's make this delightful side dish together!

Get The Recipe.

Cauliflower, Corn & Bacon Chowder

Cauliflower, Corn & Bacon Chowder
Image via The Kitchen Magpie

Indulge in our heartwarming chowder that cleverly substitutes cauliflower for potatoes, resulting in a creamy, delectable treat. This healthier alternative is not only beneficial for your well-being but also an absolute joy to your taste buds. Embrace the comfort and savor the rich flavors of this unique chowder. You're invited to experience this delightful culinary surprise!

Get The Recipe.

Buffalo Cauliflower

Buffalo Cauliflower
Image via The Kitchen Magpie

The warm, tantalizing flavors of our delicately battered buffalo cauliflower bites are lovingly baked to perfection. These mouthwatering morsels make for the ideal accompaniment to any main dish or as a standalone snack on game day. We invite you to savor each bite and experience the delightful fusion of tastes!

Get The Recipe.

Creamy Bacon Cauliflower Salad

Creamy Bacon Cauliflower Salad
Image via The Kitchen Magpie

Welcome to the delightful world of our creamy bacon cauliflower salad, a versatile dish that accommodates both cooked and raw cauliflower, tailored to your preference. This sumptuous salad is not only bursting with flavor but also a fantastic low-carb option. So come on in and create something delicious and healthful today.

Get The Recipe.

Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce

Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce
Image via Vanilla Bean Cuisine

Roasted cauliflower gets an elegant upgrade in this simple yet flavorful dish. Toasted walnuts lend a satisfying crunch, while a creamy tahini sauce with a splash of lemon adds brightness to every bite. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing side that turns humble ingredients into something truly special.

Get The Recipe.

Creamy Cauliflower Leek Potato Soup

Creamy Cauliflower Leek Potato Soup
Image via Vanilla Bean Cuisine

Experience the velvety magic of our Cauliflower Leek Potato Soup, destined to be your next much-loved soup recipe. Overflowing with nutritious veggies, our soup also features a secret ingredient that will elevate its taste, making you crave more. We warmly invite you to try this comforting and delicious soup—it's a hug in a bowl.

Get The Recipe.

Cauliflower Chickpea Curry

Cauliflower Chickpea Curry
Image via Vanilla Bean Cuisine

Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors with our Cauliflower Chickpea Curry recipe. This heartwarming dish marries the wholesome goodness of cauliflower, chickpeas, and potatoes, all lovingly simmered in a rich curry tomato sauce. Bursting with enchanting flavors and heartiness, this recipe is also a wonderful choice for those following a gluten-free or vegan lifestyle. Come, indulge in this comforting culinary delight!

Get The Recipe.

Cauliflower Stuffing with Sausage and Pecans

Cauliflower Stuffing with Sausage and Pecans
Image via Vanilla Bean Cuisine

Experience the mouthwatering delight of our cauliflower stuffing, a wholesome alternative to the traditional dish. This low-carb, gluten-free recipe is brimming with hearty sausage, crisp cauliflower, sweet onions, fresh celery, and crunchy pecans. It's not just nutritious, but incredibly delicious too! We invite you to savor its rich and comforting flavors, perfect for any gathering.

Get The Recipe.

« Best zucchini recipes to make again and again
Cabbage recipes that go beyond coleslaw »

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

About Me

Welcome!

I'm Molly, a former personal chef trained in French pastry. Here you'll find veggie-forward, seasonal recipes with a little French kiss!

More About Me

More Fall Favorites

  • puff pastry cinnamon rolls stacked on plate
    Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls with Apple
  • plate with stack of halloween Oreo truffles decorated as mummies
    Halloween Truffles
  • stack of snickers cookies on a plate.
    Giant Snickers Cookie Recipe
  • A bowl of creamy chicken Florentine soup with a spoon, served with a side of leafy green salad and cherry tomatoes on a white plate.
    Creamy Chicken Florentine Soup
  • plate with turkey zucchini mushrooms, garlic bread, and parsley with fork.
    Turkey Zucchini Meatballs
  • roasted beets and carrots topped with feta on plate with thyme sprigs.
    Balsamic Roasted Beets and Carrots Recipe

Popular Recipes

  • close-up of chocolate almond flour mug cake with spoon
    Chocolate Almond Flour Mug Cake
  • shrimp and chicken stir fry on plate with fork holding shrimp with spinach.
    Easy Shrimp and Chicken Stir Fry
  • A plate of spinach egg bites stacked on a plate, with a green salad and a glass of juice in the background.
    Spinach Egg Bites with Bacon
  • two glasses of Vin Chaud with spices and nuts in background
    Vin Chaud (French Mulled Wine Recipe)
  • overhead view of shrimp scampi with garlic bread and fork on a plate.
    Shrimp Scampi Recipe without Wine
  • stack of snickerdoodle cookies on small cutting board in front of cookie plate and stack of cookies
    Easy Snickerdoodles without Cream of Tartar

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility

Newsletter

  • Sign Up! for updates and recipes

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2025 Vanilla Bean Cuisine