Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Garlic (Printable)

Silky pasta combined with a smooth roasted cauliflower garlic sauce and fresh herbs.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
02 - 6 cloves garlic, peeled
03 - 1 small yellow onion, roughly chopped

→ Pasta

04 - 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)

→ Dairy & Liquids

05 - 1/4 cup heavy cream
06 - 1/4 cup whole milk
07 - 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
08 - 2 tbsp olive oil

→ Seasonings & Garnish

09 - 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
10 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
11 - 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
12 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
13 - Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

# Cooking Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Toss cauliflower florets, garlic cloves, and onion with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
03 - Roast for 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until cauliflower is golden and tender.
04 - Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions. Reserve 3/4 cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
05 - Place roasted cauliflower, garlic, and onion into a blender or food processor. Add heavy cream, whole milk, parmesan, and half of the reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth, adding more pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy, pourable consistency.
06 - Return pasta to the pot. Pour cauliflower sauce over pasta and toss to coat evenly. Warm over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes, incorporating additional pasta water if a silkier texture is desired.
07 - Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately garnished with extra parmesan, fresh herbs, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Roasting the cauliflower and garlic deepens their flavor, creating a rich, velvety sauce that’s naturally comforting.
  • The recipe is easy and approachable, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Vegetarian and adaptable for vegan or gluten-free diets with simple substitutions.
  • The sauce is smooth and creamy, coating every strand of pasta for maximum indulgence.
02 -
  • Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta.
  • Roast the cauliflower evenly to develop a deeper, nuttier taste.
  • Blend the sauce until very smooth for that signature creamy texture without any graininess.
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