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Homemade Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Alfredo Ziti recipe photo

Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Alfredo Ziti

This Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Alfredo Ziti is rich, velvety, and packed with flavor—perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner with tender pasta and shredded chicken.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head cauliflower chopped into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for roasting
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 ounces ziti pasta
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup cooked chicken shredded
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large pot
  • Blender or food processor
  • Large skillet or saucepan
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden and tender.
  2. While the cauliflower roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
  3. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a blender or food processor. Add the vegetable broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the blended cauliflower Alfredo sauce over medium heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Add the shredded cooked chicken, then mix in the cooked ziti. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if you want to loosen the sauce.
  5. Remove from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Roasting the cauliflower is key for a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the sauce.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.