alfredo cauliflower garlic skillet

Featured in: Comfort Food Favorites

Tender cauliflower florets are combined with aromatic garlic, rich cream, and freshly grated Parmesan in a single skillet. The sauce thickens beautifully, coating each piece with savory goodness. Quick to prepare and perfect for easy dinners, this dish offers creamy texture and robust flavors, complemented by fresh parsley. Ideal for low-carb, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets, it’s a comforting main that pairs well with salads or veggie noodles. Flexible for adding proteins or mushrooms, the method ensures a delightful experience for anyone who loves rich, Italian-inspired skillet meals.

Updated on Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:00:00 GMT
Creamy Alfredo cauliflower garlic skillet served hot, garnished with fresh parsley.  Save It
Creamy Alfredo cauliflower garlic skillet served hot, garnished with fresh parsley. | zetluna.com

A creamy, comforting skillet dish featuring tender cauliflower in a rich Alfredo sauce with plenty of garlic—perfect for a low-carb weeknight dinner.

The first time I made this Alfredo cauliflower garlic skillet, my family couldn't believe how decadent it tasted for a veggie-based meal. Now it's a go-to option whenever we want something comforting that comes together in just half an hour.

Ingredients

  • Cauliflower: 1 large head, cut into bite-sized florets
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup
  • Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated
  • Whole milk: 1/2 cup
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): 1/4 teaspoon

Instructions

Melt butter:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt.
Sauté garlic:
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Cook cauliflower:
Add the cauliflower florets and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
Add liquids:
Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir to combine.
Simmer:
Cover the skillet and let the cauliflower simmer for 7 to 8 minutes, or until just tender.
Season and melt cheese:
Remove the lid, sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Finish and serve:
Stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and more Parmesan if desired.
Rich Alfredo cauliflower garlic skillet featuring tender florets and melted Parmesan cheese.  Save It
Rich Alfredo cauliflower garlic skillet featuring tender florets and melted Parmesan cheese. | zetluna.com

My kids love scooping out the extra sauce with their cauliflower and always ask for seconds. It makes dinner time feel special even on busy weeknights.

Required Tools

Large skillet with lid, sharp knife and cutting board, wooden spoon or spatula, cheese grater

Allergen Information

This recipe contains dairy products. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 310, Total Fat: 24 g, Carbohydrates: 12 g, Protein: 11 g

Sautéed garlic in a creamy Alfredo cauliflower skillet, perfect for a low-carb dinner. Save It
Sautéed garlic in a creamy Alfredo cauliflower skillet, perfect for a low-carb dinner. | zetluna.com

This skillet will satisfy your cravings for creamy Italian flavor while keeping things light. Enjoy every bite, and don't forget some extra Parmesan on top!

Common Questions About Recipes

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Use half-and-half for a lighter result, or try coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.

Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely! The ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check Parmesan cheese labels.

Can I add extra protein?

Sautéed mushrooms or cooked chicken can be mixed in for additional protein and heartiness.

How do I prevent cauliflower from getting mushy?

Simmer until just tender and avoid overcooking. Keep the cauliflower fork-tender for best results.

Which sides pair well?

Zucchini noodles and crisp green salad make great companions for a balanced meal.

alfredo cauliflower garlic skillet

Creamy cauliflower and garlic, simmered in Alfredo sauce, delivers rich comfort for a satisfying, low-carb dinner.

Prep Time
10 mins
Time to Cook
20 mins
Overall Time
30 mins
Authored by Clara


Skill Level Required Easy

Cuisine Type Italian-inspired

Recipe Output 4 Number of Portions

Dietary Needs Veggie-Friendly, Free of Gluten, Low-Carbohydrate

The Ingredients You'll Need

Vegetables

01 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
02 3 cloves garlic, minced
03 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish

Dairy

01 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 1 cup heavy cream
03 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
04 1/2 cup whole milk

Seasonings

01 1/2 teaspoon salt
02 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
03 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Melt Butter: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely.

Step 02

Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until aromatic, avoiding any browning.

Step 03

Cook Cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the skillet and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly softened.

Step 04

Add Dairy: Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Stir thoroughly to combine ingredients.

Step 05

Simmer Cauliflower: Cover the skillet and let simmer for 7 to 8 minutes, or until the cauliflower is just tender.

Step 06

Season and Thicken Sauce: Remove the lid. Add salt, ground black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted and the sauce thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 07

Finish and Serve: Fold in the chopped parsley and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan as desired.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cheese grater

Allergy Information

Review each ingredient to identify allergens and consult an expert if needed.
  • Contains dairy: butter, milk, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese.
  • Parmesan cheese may include animal rennet and is not suitable for strict vegetarians.
  • Always verify product labels if managing food allergies or specific dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Keep in mind these details are for general guidance and shouldn't replace professional advice.
  • Caloric Content: 310
  • Fats: 24 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 12 grams
  • Proteins: 11 grams