Golden Cauliflower Skillet with Melted Brie, Garlic Butter Drizzle & Herb Crunch
Golden cauliflower skillet with melted Brie is one of those dishes that feels restaurant-worthy but is surprisingly simple to make at home. It takes a humble vegetable and turns it into a rich, comforting centerpiece with crisp edges, creamy cheese, and layers of flavor. Roasted cauliflower develops deep caramelization, the Brie melts luxuriously into every crevice, and the garlic butter drizzle adds richness balanced by a touch of lemon. The herb crunch on top brings freshness and texture, making every bite interesting. This dish works beautifully as a vegetarian main, an elevated side dish, or a shareable skillet for entertaining.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 to 35 minutes
Total time: About 45 to 50 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6
Ingredients
For the Roasted Cauliflower
Cauliflower, cut into florets: 1 large head (about 900 g / 2 lb)
Olive oil: 3 tablespoons (45 ml)
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
Smoked paprika or dried thyme (optional): ½ teaspoon
For the Melted Brie
Brie cheese, sliced: 200 g (7 oz)
For the Garlic Butter Drizzle
Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons (45 g)
Garlic, finely minced: 2 cloves
Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
Salt: A pinch
For the Herb Crunch
Toasted breadcrumbs or panko: ½ cup (60 g)
Fresh parsley, chopped: 2 tablespoons
Fresh chives or thyme, chopped: 1 tablespoon
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
Salt: A pinch
Instructions
Preheat the oven. Set the oven to 220°C (425°F). Place a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan inside to preheat.
Season the cauliflower. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika or thyme if using.
Roast until golden. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven, spread the cauliflower evenly in a single layer, and return to the oven. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping once halfway, until deeply golden and tender.
Prepare the herb crunch. While the cauliflower roasts, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small pan. Add breadcrumbs, a pinch of salt, and toast over medium heat until golden. Remove from heat and stir in parsley and chives. Set aside.
Make the garlic butter. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook gently for 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
Add the Brie. Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven. Arrange Brie slices evenly over the hot cauliflower.
Melt the cheese. Return the skillet to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes, just until the Brie is melted and soft but not fully browned.
Drizzle with garlic butter. Spoon the warm garlic butter evenly over the melted Brie and cauliflower.
Finish with herb crunch. Sprinkle the toasted herb breadcrumb mixture generously over the top.
Serve immediately. Bring the skillet straight to the table and serve warm while the Brie is gooey.
Tips
Cut cauliflower into similar-sized florets for even roasting.
High oven heat is key for caramelization, not steaming.
Preheating the skillet helps create crisp edges.
Do not overcrowd the pan or the cauliflower will soften.
Brie melts best when sliced rather than cubed.
Keep garlic heat low to prevent bitterness.
Lemon juice balances the richness of butter and cheese.
Toast breadcrumbs until deeply golden for maximum crunch.
Add herb crunch just before serving to keep it crisp.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Variations
Nutty crunch: Replace breadcrumbs with toasted almonds or walnuts.
Spicy version: Add chili flakes to the garlic butter.
Cheese swap: Use Camembert or soft goat cheese instead of Brie.
Herb-forward: Add rosemary or sage to the herb crunch.
Lemon zest finish: Add lemon zest over the top before serving.
Mushroom addition: Roast mushrooms alongside the cauliflower.
Garlic-heavy: Roast whole garlic cloves with the cauliflower.
Breadcrumb-free: Use crushed crackers or seeds.
Extra crispy: Broil briefly after adding Brie for a browned top.
Main dish: Serve over lentils or with crusty bread.
Q&A
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Roast cauliflower ahead, then reheat and finish with Brie.
Do I need to remove the Brie rind?
No, it is edible and melts well.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, fully vegetarian.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or nuts.
Does it reheat well?
Best fresh, but reheats gently in the oven.
What pairs well with this?
Grilled chicken, fish, or a simple salad.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh is best for texture.
Is it very rich?
It is rich but balanced with herbs and lemon.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and vegan cheese.
What skillet size works best?
A large 10–12 inch oven-safe skillet.
Nutrition
(Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 320 to 380 kcal
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 26 g
Carbohydrates: 16 g
Fiber: 4 g
Conclusion
Golden cauliflower skillet with melted Brie, garlic butter drizzle, and herb crunch is proof that vegetables can be indulgent, comforting, and deeply satisfying. It transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels special enough for guests yet easy enough for a weeknight. With crisp cauliflower, silky cheese, and fresh herbs in every bite, this recipe earns a permanent place in your rotation. Whether served as a main or a standout side, it delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.