Instant pot cauliflower makes a savory sidekick to any main course and it’s made in under 30 minutes altogether. This nutrient-dense dish is flavored with a powerhouse of seasonings!
Why this recipe works
Instant pot cauliflower actually only takes 1 whole minute to cook on high in the pressure cooker. The rest of the time is for seasoning the florets and a quick release to let the steam escape. Now that’s what we call a quick and easy side dish!
You can prepare cauliflower a lot of different ways. Air fryer cauliflower, spicy roasted cauliflower, or even whole roasted cauliflower. Whichever way you choose, this nutrient-packed superstar can be elevated with flavorful seasonings for something that’s not only nutritious but also delicious.
Ingredients you will need
Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.
Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions
CAULIFLOWER – You will need 1 whole head of cauliflower cut into florets. Try not to cut the florets too small otherwise they may end up mushy. Aim for fairly equal sized florets if possible.
SEASONING – A combination of garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder along with some olive oil create a flavorful base to this dish. You can use whatever blend of spices and seasonings you prefer. We love using all purpose seasoning or cajun seasoning on cauliflower.
How to Make Instant Pot Cauliflower
These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
- Combine olive oil and all the seasonings in a small bowl and mix well.
- Place cauliflower florets in a large bowl and pour the oil/seasoning mixture over the cauliflower. Using gloved hands, gently toss to coat the florets.
- Place rack in the instant pot. Add water.
- Put seasoned cauliflower into the instant pot. Secure the lid and set the lever to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
- Do a quick release for steam to escape.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips
Cutting a head of cauliflower into florets is easy! Place the head of the cauliflower, stem down, on a cutting board and slice the head in half. Cut each half in half again, then you can break off the florets with your hands or with a paring knife.
Store any cooled leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
I would highly recommend doing a quick release and not a natural release for cauliflower in the instant pot otherwise it will overcook and become mushy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve instant pot cauliflower alongside beef, pork, poultry, or seafood. It’s super versatile and can play well with a wide variety of main courses. You can even enjoy this cauliflower cold, it’s that good!
More Cauliflower Recipes
- Mashed Cauliflower
- Cauliflower Risotto
- Cauliflower Casserole
- Cauliflower Pizza Bites
- Bang Bang Cauliflower
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Instant Pot Cauliflower
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It Rate ItIngredients
- 1 head cauliflower cut into florets
- ½ cup water
Seasoning Mix
- 1 ½ Tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Things You’ll Need
Before You Begin
- To Cut Cauliflower – Place the head of cauliflower, stem down on cutting board, and slice the head in half. Cut each half in half again, then you can break off the florets with your hands or with a paring knife.
- Try not to cut the florets too small otherwise they may end up mushy. Aim for fairly equal sized florets if possible.
- Store any cooled leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- I would highly recommend doing a quick release and not a natural release for cauliflower in the instant pot otherwise it will overcook and become mushy.
Instructions
- Combine olive oil and all the seasonings in a small bowl and mix well.
- Place cauliflower florets in a large bowl and pour the oil/seasoning mixture over the cauliflower. Using gloved hands, gently toss to coat the florets.
- Place rack in instant pot. Add water.
- Put seasoned cauliflower into the instant pot. Secure the lid and set the lever to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
- Do a quick release for steam to escape.
Nutrition
Chef Antoine Davis
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