Slow Cooker Whole Cauliflower
Looking for an easy slow cooker whole cauliflower recipe that turns a simple vegetable into a show-stopping dish? This crock pot whole cauliflower is tender, savory, and packed with flavor using just a few pantry spices. It’s a perfect vegetarian slow cooker meal or healthy side dish that requires almost no prep.
Cooking cauliflower whole in the slow cooker locks in moisture and seasoning, giving you a soft, buttery texture without needing to roast it in the oven. It’s ideal for busy days, meal prep, and low-effort healthy dinners.
Benefits of This Slow Cooker Whole Cauliflower:
Hands-off crock pot recipe set it and forget it
Healthy vegetarian main or side dish
Low-carb and gluten-free friendly
Budget-friendly vegetable recipe
Great for meal prep and batch cooking
No oven needed perfect for warm days
Customizable spice blend for different flavor styles
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3–4 hours
Ingredients:
1 whole cauliflower, outer leaves removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup vegetable broth
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Clean the cauliflower by removing the outer leaves and trimming the stem so it sits flat.
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to create a seasoning rub.
Coat the entire cauliflower with the spice mixture, covering all sides well.
Pour the vegetable broth into the bottom of the slow cooker.
Place the seasoned whole cauliflower into the crock pot.
Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours until the cauliflower is fork-tender.
Carefully lift out and transfer to a serving plate.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Pro Tip: For a roasted look and slightly crispy outside, place the cooked cauliflower under the broiler for a few minutes. Watch closely.
Flavor Variations for Crock Pot Cauliflower:
Add cumin and turmeric for a warm, Middle Eastern flavor
Use curry powder for an Indian-inspired version
Add extra garlic and herbs for a bold savory taste
Stir in almonds or pine nuts halfway through for texture
Serve with tahini sauce or yogurt herb sauce on top
Serving Ideas:
This whole slow cooker cauliflower works great as:
A vegetarian centerpiece
A healthy holiday side dish
A low-carb dinner option
A meal with quinoa or couscous
A side with sautéed greens or fresh salad
