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Cauliflower “Brain” Dip

Cauliflower “Brain” Dip – Spooky, Creamy, and Shockingly Delicious

Looking for a Halloween appetizer that’s both creepy and crowd-pleasing? This Cauliflower “Brain” Dip is a ghoulishly fun twist on classic roasted cauliflower and creamy dip. A whole roasted head of cauliflower is shaped and glazed to look like a brain, then drizzled with “bloody” roasted red pepper sauce for a realistic (and tasty) effect. Underneath the spooky look, it’s all comforting flavor — savory, garlicky, and perfect for dipping crackers or veggies.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the “Brain”
  • 1 large head of cauliflower leaves and stem trimmed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
For the “Bloody” Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
  • 1 12 oz jar roasted red peppers, drained
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
For Serving
  • Crackers pita chips, or veggie sticks
  • Optional: fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Brush or spoon
  • Blender or food processor
  • Serving platter

Method
 

Preheat and Prep
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roast the “Brain”
  1. Place the cauliflower head (stem side down) on the sheet. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Roast for 35–40 minutes, until golden and tender but still holds shape.
Make the “Bloody” Sauce
  1. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne (if using). Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Assemble the “Brain”
  1. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving platter. Pour the red pepper sauce over the top, letting it drip down the crevices to create a “bloody” brain effect.
Serve
  1. Garnish with parsley or chives and serve warm with crackers or veggie sticks for dipping.

Notes

Make ahead: You can roast the cauliflower and prepare the sauce a day in advance. Reheat before assembling.
Presentation tip: For extra spook factor, serve it on a dark platter with fake cobwebs or plastic spiders nearby.
Flavor swap: Try a spicy chipotle sauce instead of red pepper sauce for a smoky “bloody” glaze.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.