Name: Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets; 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or preferred), sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional); 1–2 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness); 2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet is a savory, satisfying dish made with golden sautéed cauliflower, tender mushrooms, and lots of garlic. Everything is cooked in one pan, making cleanup easy and the flavors even better. I love how hearty and flavorful this dish is while still being light and veggie-packed—perfect as a side or even a simple main.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, healthy, and so flavorful. The cauliflower gets perfectly browned and slightly crispy, the mushrooms bring an earthy depth, and the garlic ties everything together with bold, aromatic flavor. It’s low-carb, plant-based, and super versatile—I can enjoy it on its own or pair it with grains or protein. Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cauliflower florets
Mushrooms (button, cremini, or any kind I like), sliced
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped (optional)
Fresh parsley or thyme (optional, for garnish)
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
I add the cauliflower florets and let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get a nice golden sear. Then I stir and continue cooking until tender and browned, about 8–10 minutes.
I add the mushrooms and cook for another 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown.
I stir in the garlic (and onion if using) and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
I season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, then add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness if I want.
I garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4 as a side and takes about 25 minutes total—10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook.

Variations

Sometimes I add spinach or kale at the end for extra greens. I’ve also stirred in cooked chickpeas or white beans to make it a complete meal. If I want a cheesy twist, I sprinkle Parmesan or nutritional yeast over the top. For a heartier version, I toss it with cooked pasta or serve it over quinoa or rice.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in short bursts. The cauliflower will soften a bit, but the flavors remain delicious. Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes. I thaw and pat it dry before sautéing to help it brown better and avoid sogginess.

What type of mushrooms work best?

I like cremini or baby bella mushrooms for their rich flavor, but white button mushrooms or a mix of wild mushrooms work too.

How do I get the cauliflower crispy?

I let it sear undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring, and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes. All the ingredients are naturally plant-based unless I add cheese, which I can skip or replace with a vegan option.

Can I make this spicy?

Absolutely. I add a pinch of red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce at the end for a little kick.

Conclusion

Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet is a quick, flavorful dish that turns simple vegetables into something really special. I love how easy it is to make, how versatile it is to serve, and how satisfying it feels—even without meat or heavy ingredients. Whether I’m cooking for a weeknight dinner or prepping a healthy side, this skillet never disappoints.

Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet

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Author: lina
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 3–4 servings
Category: Side Dish, Main Dish
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet is a quick, one-pan veggie dish packed with golden cauliflower, tender mushrooms, and bold garlic flavor. It’s savory, satisfying, and perfect as a light main or hearty side.

Ingredients

1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or preferred), sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
1–2 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add cauliflower florets and cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to sear. Stir and cook for another 5–6 minutes until golden and tender.
Add mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and their moisture has evaporated.
Stir in garlic and onion (if using) and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness and toss to combine.
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme and serve hot.