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Homemade Creamy Roasted Cauliflower and Leek Farfalle recipe photo

Creamy Roasted Cauliflower and Leek Farfalle

This Creamy Roasted Cauliflower and Leek Farfalle is a comforting, veggie-packed pasta with a rich, velvety sauce and a hint of nutmeg—perfect for weeknight dinners!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz farfalle pasta
  • 1 medium head of cauliflower cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 leeks chopped (white and light green parts only)
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Grater

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender.
  2. While the cauliflower roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the 1 cup heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and the remaining salt and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency.
  5. Add the roasted cauliflower to the skillet with the creamy leek sauce. Toss gently to coat. Then add the cooked farfalle pasta and fold everything together carefully, ensuring even coating and distribution.
  6. Remove from heat, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta, and give it one last gentle toss. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Roasting the cauliflower is essential for deep, nutty flavor—avoid steaming instead.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer, creamier sauce.
  • Saving pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency and improves sauce adhesion.
  • Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that enhances the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.