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Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 55 reviews
  • Author: Ivy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This creamy Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce is a healthier twist on the classic Italian sauce, using tender cooked cauliflower and roasted garlic for rich flavor. Blended with Parmesan cheese and broth, it creates a smooth, comforting sauce perfect for pasta, vegetables, or as a dip. Ready in just 20 minutes, it offers a delicious low-carb alternative with wholesome ingredients.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 medium cauliflower head (4 cups of florets)
  • 7 cloves roasted garlic (see notes for roasting tips)
  • ½ cup broth or water reserved from cooking the cauliflower
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (see note)
  • Dash of salt and pepper (to taste)


Instructions

  1. Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into florets. Place them in a large pot and add enough water, broth, or a 50/50 mix to cover the florets. Cook over medium heat until the cauliflower is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
  2. Drain and Cool: Remove the cooked cauliflower florets from the pot and spread them on a large baking sheet to cool slightly, which helps prevent excess moisture in the sauce.
  3. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the cooled cauliflower, roasted garlic cloves, ½ cup of the reserved cooking water or broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. Blend on high until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add more liquid if needed to reach desired consistency.
  4. Season: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as desired, blending briefly to combine.
  5. Store or Serve: Use the sauce immediately with your favorite pasta or vegetables, or pour it into a jar, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use. It keeps well for up to 4 days.

Notes

  • Roasting garlic intensifies its sweetness and mellows sharpness; roast peeled cloves at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes until golden and soft.
  • For best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated varieties.
  • This sauce is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by substituting the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative.
  • To thin the sauce, gradually add broth or reserved cooking water while blending until you achieve the desired texture.