Creamy Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta (5 Ingredients, Ready in 20 Minutes)
This creamy cauliflower Alfredo pasta transforms simple ingredients into a light yet indulgent comfort meal. Cauliflower blends into a silky, flavorful sauce that coats tender fettuccine perfectly — ready in just 20 minutes, with only five ingredients. A cozy, satisfying dinner that’s both healthy and delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti, cooked al dente
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for extra creaminess
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Steam the Cauliflower
Add cauliflower florets to a pot with 1 cup of water or broth. Cover and steam for 7–8 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a small skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Blend the Sauce
Transfer cauliflower and garlic to a blender. Add broth, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Blend on high for 30–60 seconds until smooth and creamy. Adjust thickness with a bit more broth if needed.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Toss
Return pasta to the pot. Pour in the cauliflower sauce and toss gently. Use a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce until it coats every strand evenly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, and a light brush of olive oil before serving warm.
Notes
For a vegan version, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and olive oil instead of butter.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Great with garlic bread or a side salad for a full meal.