How Long to Cook Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative to regular rice. It cooks much faster because it is already broken into small pieces.
How long to cook cauliflower rice?
Cauliflower rice takes 5-8 minutes on the stove, 3-4 minutes in the microwave, 15-20 minutes in the oven at 425°F, or 10-12 minutes in an air fryer. No water needed - it releases moisture naturally. Cook until tender but not mushy.
Cauliflower Rice Cooking Times
Cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative to regular rice. It cooks much faster because it is already broken into small pieces. Do not add water - cauliflower releases its own moisture.
| Method | Cook Time | Water | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stove/Skillet (Fresh) | 5-8 min | None or 2 tbsp | Medium-high heat |
| Stove (Frozen) | 5-8 min | None | No need to thaw |
| Microwave | 3-4 min | None | Covered, stir halfway |
| Oven | 15-20 min | None | 425°F, spread thin |
| Air Fryer | 10-12 min | None | 375°F, shake halfway |
How Long to Cook Cauliflower Rice on Stove?
Cauliflower rice takes 5-8 minutes on the stove. This is the most popular method for both fresh and frozen.
Stove Method:
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in large skillet
- Add cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
- Cook over medium-high heat
- Stir frequently, 5-8 minutes
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic
- Done when tender but not mushy
How Long to Cook Frozen Cauliflower Rice?
Frozen cauliflower rice takes 5-8 minutes on the stove. No thawing required.
- Cook directly from frozen
- Use hot, dry pan (no water)
- May release extra moisture - just let it evaporate
- Stir frequently for even cooking
How Long to Cook Cauliflower Rice in Oven?
Cauliflower rice in the oven takes 15-20 minutes at 425°F. Roasting creates caramelized, slightly crispy edges.
- Preheat oven to 425°F
- Toss cauliflower rice with 1 tablespoon oil
- Spread in single layer on baking sheet
- Roast 15-20 minutes, stirring once
- Season after roasting
How Long to Cook Cauliflower Rice in Air Fryer?
Cauliflower rice in air fryer takes 10-12 minutes at 375°F. Creates the crispiest texture.
- Toss with small amount of oil
- Add to air fryer basket in thin layer
- Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes
- Shake basket halfway through
Frequently Asked Questions
Cauliflower rice takes 5-8 minutes on the stove, 3-4 minutes in the microwave, or 15-20 minutes in the oven. It cooks quickly because it is already riced into small pieces.
Frozen cauliflower rice takes 5-8 minutes on the stove. Cook directly from frozen - no need to thaw. Use medium-high heat and stir frequently until tender.
Cauliflower rice in the oven takes 15-20 minutes at 425°F. Spread in single layer on baking sheet. Roasting creates slightly crispy, caramelized edges.
Fresh cauliflower rice takes 10-12 minutes in an air fryer at 375°F. Toss with oil, spread in basket, and shake halfway through. Results in crispy texture.
Riced cauliflower takes 5-8 minutes on the stove. Sauté in a little oil or butter over medium-high heat until tender but not mushy. Season as desired.
No water needed. Cauliflower releases moisture as it cooks. Adding water makes it soggy. Dry-sauté in a hot pan for best texture. Drain frozen rice if excess liquid releases.