Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s comforting, brimming with flavor, and just happens to be packed with vegetables, look no further than this Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet. Imagine golden cauliflower and juicy mushrooms, all cozied up with buttery garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of veggie stock. It’s a weeknight hero that’s as easy to whip up as it is satisfying to eat—and you’ll want to make it again and again for its unbeatable combo of taste and simple wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need
With only a handful of key components, each ingredient in this skillet brings something special to the table. These simple, fresh items are the foundation for the rich flavors and delightful textures that make Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet so irresistible. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Gives the dish a velvety, decadent base for that signature richness.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a fruity note and keeps the butter from burning as you sauté.
- Onion, chopped (1/2): Adds essential sweetness and depth as the first layer of flavor.
- Cauliflower, cut into florets (1/2 head): The hearty, crispy element that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Mushrooms, cleaned (1 pound/500g): Provide a meaty texture and soak up that garlicky, buttery goodness.
- Low sodium vegetable stock (2 tablespoons): A splash for moisture and a subtle umami note to tie everything together.
- Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (1 teaspoon): Earthy and aromatic, this herb brightens and rounds out the flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): Offers freshness and a pop of vibrant color both in and on top of the dish.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): The star ingredient that infuses every bite with irresistible pungency.
- Salt and pepper (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste): A final flourish to bring all the flavors to life.
How to Make Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by heating your butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This blend of fats gives the dish a balance of flavor and prevents any burning. Sauté the chopped onion until it turns soft and translucent, which should take about three minutes. This step lays down a cozy, savory foundation that the rest of the ingredients will soak right up.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
Add the mushrooms to the pan and let them cook undisturbed for a bit, so they begin to release and then reabsorb their moisture. This takes about four to five minutes. Give them the time they need to brown nicely—they shouldn’t be rushed! A good golden sear means the Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet won’t end up soggy, and those little bits of browned mushroom? Pure flavor bliss.
Step 3: Brown the Cauliflower
Once the mushrooms are perfectly browned, toss in the cauliflower florets. Let them sizzle, stirring occasionally, so every nook and cranny gets golden and even a bit crispy on the edges, about eight to ten minutes. This is where the skillet magic happens—the cauliflower starts to caramelize, mingling with the savory mushrooms and onion for an irresistible medley.
Step 4: Add Vegetable Stock
Pour in your vegetable stock, just a couple of tablespoons, and let it bubble for two minutes. This deglazes the pan, lifting all those tasty browned bits off the bottom and coating your veggies in a subtle, savory sauce. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in taste and texture.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Now, stir in the fresh thyme, about half the parsley, and all that minced garlic. Let everything cook together for about thirty seconds—just until the garlic is fragrant and the herbs release their aroma. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a last sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving and get ready to dig into your glorious Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet.
How to Serve Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet

Garnishes
For a finishing touch, scatter extra chopped parsley right over the top for a fresh, grassy pop of green. A few thyme leaves or freshly cracked pepper also add flavor and make your Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet look stunning straight from the skillet to the table. If you love tang, a spritz of lemon never hurts, either!
Side Dishes
This garlic mushroom cauliflower skillet can be a star on its own, but it also plays beautifully with others. Serve alongside fluffy rice, creamy polenta, or simply some crusty bread to sop up every last bit of sauce. For a heartier meal, pair with grilled chicken or a plant-based protein of your choosing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try piling the skillet mixture onto toasted sourdough for an open-faced sandwich, or serve it over a bed of greens as a warm salad. You could even spoon the Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet into individual ramekins for a stylish dinner party presentation. The rustic, colorful look of this dish always impresses, no matter how you serve it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have leftovers—lucky you!—simply let the skillet cool completely. Transfer your Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet into an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, and the flavors only get better as they mingle.
Freezing
This dish actually freezes quite well. Scoop cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out as much air as possible. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for more, just thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet in a pan over medium heat; add a splash of veggie stock if it needs a little moisture. You can also microwave individual portions, but a skillet will bring back some of that lovely crispness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower or mushrooms?
Yes, you can! If using frozen cauliflower or mushrooms, let them thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding to the pan. The texture may be slightly softer, but the flavor will still shine through in your Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply swap the butter for more olive oil, or use a plant-based butter alternative. The Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet remains just as rich and flavorful, perfect for any plant-based table.
What mushrooms work best for this skillet?
Button, cremini, and even portobello mushrooms all work beautifully. Feel free to use a mix for a more complex, earthy flavor in the Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This skillet reheats well and gets even tastier as the flavors meld, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy weeks or meal preppers.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Toss in a few handfuls of spinach near the end, or add bell peppers and zucchini with the cauliflower for extra color and nutrients in your Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet is the kind of cozy, crave-worthy dish that’s easy to fall in love with—whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones. With its simple process and vibrant flavors, it’s proof that a handful of humble ingredients can transform into something truly memorable. Don’t wait—give this skillet a spot on your dinner table and watch it disappear!
PrintGarlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet Recipe
This Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet is a flavorful and satisfying vegetable dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté, Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Skillet:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (or ghee)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1/2 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 pound (500 g) mushrooms, cleaned
- 2 tablespoons low sodium vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- To make the sautéed cauliflower and mushrooms skillet: Heat the butter and oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion until softened (about 3 minutes).
- Add the mushrooms and cook for about 4-5 minutes on all sides. Make sure the mushrooms render as much moisture as possible. Brown them a little more, if necessary, to avoid the side dish becoming soggy at the end. Keep an eye on it so they don’t burn either 😉
- Once mushrooms are well browned, add cauliflower florets. Cook until golden and crispy on the edges, about 8-10 minutes. Veggies must be well browned.
- Pour in the vegetable stock and cook for 2 minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.
- Add thyme, one tablespoon of parsley, and garlic. Cook the mushrooms and cauliflower for half a minute, until fragrant. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, sprinkle with remaining parsley, and serve the garlic butter, mushrooms, and cauliflower skillet immediately. Enjoy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Garlic Mushrooms Cauliflower Skillet, Vegetable Skillet, Vegetarian Skillet Recipe