Bold, sweet, and irresistibly spicy, Hot Honey Roasted Cauliflower is a vibrant dish that transforms simple ingredients into something crave-worthy. Oven-roasted until golden and crisp on the edges, tender cauliflower is finished with a drizzle of hot honey that adds just the right balance of sweetness and heat. Whether served as a punchy side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main, this recipe is all about big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish takes everyday cauliflower and elevates it with smoky seasoning and a finishing touch of hot honey that delivers a mouthwatering contrast. It’s a quick and easy recipe that requires one sheet pan and under an hour to make, yet the results are anything but ordinary. Perfect for busy weeknights, plant-based meals, or a standout side at your next gathering, Hot Honey Roasted Cauliflower is as simple as it is exciting.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets or thick steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of chili flakes for extra heat
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets or steaks with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan, ensuring pieces aren’t crowded for optimal roasting.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender, golden brown, and crisp on the edges.
- Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with hot honey. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired. Serve warm.
Servings and timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: Approximately 145 kcal per serving
Variations
- Extra Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or more chili flakes to the spice mix before roasting.
- Crispier Texture: Roast cauliflower on a wire rack over the baking sheet for maximum airflow and crisping.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast just before serving for added depth.
- Buffalo Style: Toss the roasted cauliflower with buffalo sauce and drizzle with blue cheese or ranch.
- Asian-Inspired: Use sesame oil and a drizzle of chili garlic sauce instead of hot honey for a fusion twist.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 375°F until warmed through and slightly crisp, or use an air fryer for best results. Avoid microwaving, as it can soften the texture. For meal prep, roast the cauliflower in advance and add the hot honey just before serving.
FAQs
What is hot honey?
Hot honey is a blend of honey and chili peppers that creates a sweet and spicy flavor. It can be purchased or made at home by simmering honey with chili flakes.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, just ensure your hot honey is vegan or use a maple syrup and chili mixture as an alternative.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh is best for crisp results, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly before roasting.
How do I make homemade hot honey?
Simmer 1/2 cup honey with 1–2 teaspoons of red chili flakes for 5–10 minutes, then strain if desired.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes work well with the same seasoning and glaze.
Why isn’t my cauliflower getting crispy?
Ensure the florets are spread out in a single layer and not overcrowded. High heat and proper spacing are key.
Can I prep this in advance?
You can season and cut the cauliflower ahead of time. Roast and drizzle with hot honey just before serving for best texture.
How spicy is this dish?
It has a mild to moderate heat depending on the hot honey. Adjust the spice level to your liking with chili flakes or mild honey.
What pairs well with this dish?
It’s excellent with roasted meats, grain bowls, salads, or served over rice or quinoa for a vegetarian main.
Conclusion
Hot Honey Roasted Cauliflower is a bold, flavorful dish that turns a simple vegetable into a crave-worthy favorite. With its caramelized edges, smoky seasoning, and spicy-sweet glaze, it’s a versatile addition to any meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a meatless main, this easy sheet pan recipe delivers comfort and complexity with every bite.
Print
Hot Honey Roasted Cauliflower
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Hot Honey Roasted Cauliflower is a bold and flavorful sheet pan dish featuring golden, oven-roasted cauliflower tossed in spicy-sweet hot honey. This easy roasted cauliflower recipe makes the perfect side or meatless main, delivering a delicious kick with every bite.
Ingredients
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1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets or thick steaks
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Optional: pinch of chili flakes for extra heat
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Toss cauliflower florets or steaks with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
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Spread cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cauliflower is golden, tender, and lightly charred.
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Remove from oven and drizzle immediately with hot honey. Toss to coat evenly.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and a pinch of chili flakes if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
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Make your own hot honey by combining honey with chili flakes or hot sauce to taste.
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Try serving over rice, quinoa, or greens for a vegetarian main dish.
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Leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Vegetarian Main
- Method: Roasted
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
