As the weather cools down, our taste buds start craving comfort food that’s warm, cozy, and indulgent. And what better way to satisfy those cravings than with a bowl of creamy, dreamy cauliflower goodness? Cauliflower has become a staple in many kitchens lately, and for good reason – it’s versatile, nutritious, and can be transformed into a wide range of delicious dishes. From soups to casseroles, pasta bakes to quesadillas, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creamy cauliflower recipes.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of cauliflower’s creamy side. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or something bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get cozy, and let the comforting goodness of creamy cauliflower wash over you.
Creamy Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of roasted cauliflower, creating a creamy and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
7. Combine cooked macaroni, roasted cauliflower, and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Soup
Elevate your soup game with this creamy, flavorful recipe that combines roasted garlic and cauliflower. Perfect as a starter or main course, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, separated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
4. Sauté chopped onion and roasted garlic in a large pot over medium heat until softened.
5. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
6. Purée soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
7. Stir in heavy cream (or half-and-half). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce with Fettuccine
A game-changing twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe replaces traditional heavy cream with roasted cauliflower for a lighter and just as rich Alfredo sauce. Pair it with fettuccine noodles and you’ll have a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine noodles
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with butter, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, Parmesan cheese, flour, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Cook fettuccine noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine the cauliflower sauce with cooked fettuccine noodles. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
This Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a game-changer for cauliflower lovers and haters alike. With its creamy sauce, gooey cheese, and tender florets, it’s the perfect side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté cauliflower, onion, and garlic in olive oil until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and milk. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese; stir until smooth.
4. Combine cooked cauliflower mixture with cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower Mash with Herbs
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy cauliflower mash infused with fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
2. Drain the cauliflower and return it to the pot. Add butter, heavy cream, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the cauliflower mixture with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower and Potato Gratin
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy, flavorful cauliflower and potato gratin that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This comforting casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with butter until well coated.
3. Arrange potato slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top potatoes with cauliflower mixture and sprinkle with cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
5. Pour heavy cream over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower Risotto
This creamy cauliflower risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal. With the natural sweetness of roasted cauliflower and the richness of Arborio rice, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cups of Arborio rice
– 4 cups of vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and Arborio rice to the skillet, cooking for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring constantly, and cook until liquid is absorbed. Repeat process for 20-25 minutes or until rice is creamy.
5. Stir in roasted cauliflower, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 40-45 minutes
Cauliflower and Cheese Stuffed Shells
This creative twist on traditional stuffed shells combines the flavors of cauliflower, cheese, and pasta for a delicious and nutritious meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this comforting dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add cauliflower, onion, and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the cauliflower mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Silky Cauliflower Hummus
Transform plain hummus into a creamy masterpiece by incorporating roasted cauliflower! This recipe adds a silky texture and subtle sweetness to the classic dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of lemon juice
– 1/2 cup of tahini
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, parsley, or other herbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and remaining olive oil.
5. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with paprika, parsley, or other herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (roasting) + 5-10 minutes (blending)
Creamy Cauliflower and Bacon Chowder
Creamy Cauliflower and Bacon Chowder: A rich and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of cauliflower with the smokiness of bacon and a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Add the butter to the pot and let it melt. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
3. Add the cauliflower florets and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower Tikka Masala with Coconut Milk
Transform the flavors of Indian cuisine into a healthier, vegan-friendly dish by swapping traditional chicken or paneer with cauliflower. This Cauliflower Tikka Masala with Coconut Milk is a delicious and comforting recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne (if using). Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large saucepan, combine coconut milk, vegetable broth, and roasted cauliflower. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower and Spinach Pasta
A comforting and nutritious pasta dish that combines the subtle bitterness of cauliflower with the earthy sweetness of spinach, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 5 minutes, or until tender.
4. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, creamy sauce, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower and Leek Soup with Cream
Savor the creamy and comforting flavors of this cauliflower and leek soup, perfect for a cozy dinner or a warm snack on a chilly day. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional soups, with the sweetness of cauliflower and the pungency of leeks balanced by the richness of heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the cauliflower and leeks; cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are very tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender; puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Puree
Elevate your meals with this creamy and savory cauliflower puree, infused with the richness of garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for pasta, pizza, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 1/2 cup of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and toss with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a blender or food processor with chicken broth and blend until smooth.
7. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower and Mushroom Bake
A comforting side dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the subtle sweetness of cauliflower, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a delicious addition to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms and onion in butter until softened.
3. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cheddar cheese.
5. Pour the cream mixture over the cauliflower mixture, stirring to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower and Cheese Quesadillas
These flavorful quesadillas combine the comfort of cheese with the nutritional benefits of cauliflower, making for a perfect snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 4 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In the skillet, sauté the cauliflower, onion, and garlic until the vegetables are tender.
3. In a separate pan or griddle, melt 1/4 cup of cheese on one half of each tortilla.
4. Place the cooked cauliflower mixture on top of the cheese, then fold the tortillas in half.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
6. Serve hot with additional cheese and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Creamy Cauliflower Polenta
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious cauliflower polenta recipe. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup polenta cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the cauliflower florets, water, and salt to a boil in a large pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in polenta cornmeal and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream or whole milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer the polenta mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened to your liking.
6. Add cooked cauliflower to the polenta and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Cauliflower and Broccoli Cheese Soup
This comforting soup combines the richness of cheese with the subtle sweetness of cauliflower and broccoli, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups of broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the cauliflower and broccoli florets, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower and Chicken Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the tender sweetness of cauliflower with the savory goodness of chicken, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in olive oil until cooked through.
3. Add the cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine heavy cream and shredded cheese. Stir until smooth.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the chicken and cauliflower mixture.
6. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and sprinkle with thyme.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Curry with Coconut Cream
This flavorful and nutritious curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, tender sweet potatoes, and crispy cauliflower florets, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy coconut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cauliflower and sweet potatoes; cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Add diced tomatoes and coconut cream; simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the creamy delights of cauliflower with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and casseroles, to soups, risottos, and more, these dishes showcase the versatility of this nutritious veggie. Try Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce with Fettuccine, Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole, or Creamy Cauliflower Mash with Herbs for a comforting twist. Or go international with Cauliflower Tikka Masala with Coconut Milk or Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Curry with Coconut Cream. Whatever your taste, there’s a creamy cauliflower recipe to satisfy your cravings!
