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How long to cook broccoli and cauliflower in the oven depends on how you cut them, what temperature you use, and whether you’re roasting them together or separately.
As a general rule, broccoli and cauliflower both take about 20 to 30 minutes in a 400°F (200°C) oven when cut into florets.
But there’s a little nuance here, because these two veggies don’t cook at exactly the same speed.
If you’ve been wondering how long to cook broccoli and cauliflower in the oven so they come out perfectly roasted and not mushy, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’ll break down the exact timing for oven-roasted broccoli and cauliflower, how to prep them, and how to get them both tender and caramelized at the same time.
Let’s get roasting.
How Long to Cook Broccoli and Cauliflower in the Oven
So how long do broccoli and cauliflower take in the oven?
Here’s the short answer: roast them at 400°F for 20 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
That said, the exact time can shift depending on a few things, and it helps to know what’s happening.
1. Broccoli Cooks Faster Than Cauliflower
Broccoli is a bit more delicate than its cruciferous cousin.
Its florets are softer and contain more moisture, so they roast faster.
Cauliflower florets are denser, so they usually need a few extra minutes to get that golden, tender finish.
That’s why, when you cook broccoli and cauliflower in the oven together, you’ll want to give cauliflower a slight head start.
2. Floret Size Changes Everything
The size of your florets matters more than you’d think.
Small, bite-sized pieces of broccoli and cauliflower can roast in as little as 15 to 18 minutes.
Larger florets might take 25 to 35 minutes.
So if you’re aiming for even cooking, try to keep your pieces roughly the same size, about 1 to 1.5 inches across.
3. Oven Temperature and Timing
Most recipes call for roasting broccoli and cauliflower at 400°F (200°C).
At that temperature, broccoli florets take about 18 to 22 minutes, while cauliflower florets take roughly 22 to 28 minutes.
If you drop the heat to 375°F, add about 5 to 7 minutes to both.
Crank it up to 425°F, and you can shave off a few minutes, but keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
4. Watch for Visual Cues
The best way to know how long to cook broccoli and cauliflower in the oven is to trust your eyes and nose.
Broccoli is ready when the tips and edges are browned and slightly crispy.
Cauliflower is ready when the florets turn golden and the stems are fork-tender.
If the edges are charring but the centers still feel firm, lower the heat and give them more time.
How to Prep Broccoli and Cauliflower for the Oven
Before you cook broccoli and cauliflower in the oven, a little prep goes a long way.
Here’s how to set them up for the perfect roast.
1. Wash and Dry Thoroughly
Rinse both veggies well, then dry them completely with a clean towel or paper towel.
Excess water creates steam instead of roast, which means soggy florets instead of crispy ones.
This step is small but it makes a big difference.
2. Cut Even, Medium-Sized Florets
Aim for florets about 1 to 1.5 inches wide with a bit of stem attached.
The stems cook more slowly than the florets, so keeping them attached helps everything roast evenly.
If some florets are much bigger than others, cut them down so they match.
3. Toss in Oil and Season
Coat the florets with 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil, or enough to lightly gloss each piece.
Then season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Spread everything in a single layer on a baking sheet, leaving space between the pieces so they roast instead of steam.
Tips for Roasting Broccoli and Cauliflower Together
Roasting both in the same pan is totally doable, you just need to play with timing a little.
Here’s how to nail it.
1. Give Cauliflower a Head Start
Since cauliflower takes longer, put it in the oven first for about 8 to 10 minutes.
Then add the broccoli to the pan and roast them together for another 18 to 20 minutes.
That way both vegetables finish at roughly the same time.
2. Use Two Separate Pans
If you’re after perfect control, roast broccoli and cauliflower in separate pans.
Pull the broccoli out when it’s done, then let the cauliflower roast for the last 5 to 8 minutes.
This is the easiest way to cook broccoli and cauliflower in the oven without one overcooking.
3. Don’t Crowd the Pan
Overcrowding traps moisture and turns roasting into steaming.
Use a large sheet pan or two smaller ones so every floret has room to brown.
4. Flip Halfway Through
At the halfway mark, use a spatula to flip the florets so they brown on all sides.
This step ensures they cook evenly and get those crisp, caramelized edges.
So, How Long to Cook Broccoli and Cauliflower in the Oven?
How long to cook broccoli and cauliflower in the oven comes down to about 20 to 30 minutes at 400°F, with cauliflower needing a few extra minutes.
The key is even florets, a hot oven, and a little patience while they caramelize.
Whether you roast them together or separately, you’ll end up with a tender, flavorful side dish that pairs with just about anything.
Now you know exactly how long to cook broccoli and cauliflower in the oven, so go ahead and get roasting.