Name: Cauliflower and Mushroom Skillet with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 tablespoons unsalted butter; ½ medium yellow onion, diced; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt, divided (or to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 16 ounces cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced, halved or whole; 1 head cauliflower florets (about 1.5 pounds); 1 whole lemon, juice and zest; 1 tablespoon fresh dill; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley; ⅛ cup chicken stock (can substitute for white wine, any broth of choice or water); Parsley; Dill; Parmesan cheese; Lemon wedges

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 60 reviews

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The Cauliflower and Mushroom Skillet with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe is a delightful harmony of earthy mushrooms and tender cauliflower, all enveloped in a luscious garlic lemon butter sauce that brightens every bite. This dish combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a comforting skillet meal that is both flavorful and visually inviting. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying side or a show-stopping vegetarian main, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of richness, brightness, and savory depth that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black cast iron pan filled with two visible layers of food, placed on a white marbled surface with a gray and white cloth nearby. The bottom layer shows brown mushrooms with a slightly glossy texture, while the top layer is made up of many light cream-colored cauliflower florets of different sizes, covering the mushrooms. A wooden spoon with a dark handle rests inside the pan, partially under the cauliflower. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting this recipe right is all about using fresh, simple ingredients that bring vibrant flavors and appealing textures to your skillet. Each item plays a key role in building layers of taste—from the creamy butter to the lively herbs and the perfect touch of seasoning.

Unsalted Butter: Eight tablespoons create the rich, silky base that carries all the flavors beautifully.
Yellow Onion: Half a medium onion diced fine offers sweetness and depth when softened.
Garlic: Six cloves minced bring that signature aromatic punch that makes the dish irresistible.
Kosher Salt: One and a half teaspoons, divided, to season thoughtfully throughout cooking.
Black Pepper: Half a teaspoon for a gentle heat that balances the richness.
Smoked Paprika: Half a teaspoon adds a subtle smoky undertone, enhancing earthiness.
Cayenne Pepper (Optional): A quarter teaspoon for just a spark of spice, if you like.
Cremini or Baby Bella Mushrooms: Sixteen ounces, sliced, halved, or left whole for varied texture.
Cauliflower Florets: One head, about 1.5 pounds, chopped into bite-sized pieces for tenderness and mild crunch.
Lemon: Juice and zest of one whole lemon bring brightness and acidity to balance butter richness.
Fresh Dill: One tablespoon, finely chopped, for a fresh herbal note.
Fresh Parsley: One tablespoon chopped adds color and a mild, grassy freshness.
Chicken Stock: One eighth cup to add moisture and create a gentle simmer to meld flavors; substitute with white wine or broth as desired.
Garnishes: Parsley, dill, parmesan, and lemon wedges to finish with flair and extra flavor.

How to Make Cauliflower and Mushroom Skillet with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the onions and garlic

Start by melting 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced yellow onion along with a pinch of kosher salt, cooking gently until the onions soften and turn translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. The softened onions will add a sweet base note while the salt pulls out their natural flavors. Next, add the minced garlic and the combination of spices—black pepper, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne—sautéing briefly until the garlic becomes fragrant, just about 30 seconds. This fragrant start sets the foundation for the whole dish’s flavor profile.

Step 2: Brown the mushrooms in butter

Add the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, letting it melt nicely. Then add your mushrooms—they can be sliced, halved, or left whole based on your preference. Stir frequently as they cook, allowing them to brown and develop their deep, savory flavor. This stage takes around 5 minutes. The mushrooms will release some liquid but as they brown, they’ll gain an irresistible umami quality that pairs perfectly with buttery richness.

Step 3: Cook the cauliflower with seasonings

Next, stir in the cauliflower florets and season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Cook while stirring often, letting the cauliflower soften and absorb the surrounding flavors for about 10 minutes. This longer cooking time is what transforms the cauliflower from crunchy and raw to tender and buttery, hosting the mushrooms and seasonings in wonderful harmony.

Step 4: Add lemon, herbs, and simmer

Once the cauliflower is tender, stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, the chopped dill and parsley, along with the chicken stock or your preferred liquid substitute. Let it simmer for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. This final step infuses the skillet with brightness and fresh herbal notes, while the gentle simmer melds the flavors together beautifully, creating that signature garlic lemon butter sauce that makes this dish so special.

Step 5: Final seasoning and serve

Remove the skillet from heat and taste for seasoning. Add any extra salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle fresh dill, parsley, shaved parmesan, and serve with lemon wedges on the side to elevate the presentation and allow your guests to add an extra citrusy zing if they wish. Serve the Cauliflower and Mushroom Skillet with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe immediately to enjoy the perfect blend of textures and flavors.

How to Serve Cauliflower and Mushroom Skillet with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a skillet filled with cooked cauliflower florets and sliced mushrooms. The cauliflower pieces are a soft yellowish-white color and look tender, scattered evenly throughout the pan. Brown mushrooms with a slightly shiny texture are mixed in, with bits of green herbs sprinkled on top, adding a fresh touch. Some grated cheese flakes are visible, melting lightly over the vegetables. A metal spoon holds a scoop of this mix near the center, and below the skillet, there are green herb sprigs on a white marbled surface. The overall look is warm and rustic with natural colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A vibrant sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and dill lifts this dish with a bright herbal aroma, while a generous dusting of parmesan adds a salty, savory finish. Don’t forget the lemon wedges that invite diners to squeeze bursts of fresh citrus over each serving—adding an irresistible spark to every bite.

Side Dishes

This skillet dish is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a simple quinoa salad. For a cozy vegetarian meal, serve it over creamy polenta or alongside warm crusty bread to sop up every bit of the garlicky lemon butter sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, scatter microgreens over the skillet right before serving, or plate the cauliflower and mushrooms atop a bed of steamed couscous or wild rice. You can also offer it as a colorful side at a festive dinner by plating portions in small ramekins garnished with edible flowers or curled lemon zest ribbons.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover Cauliflower and Mushroom Skillet with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 5 days, making it a great choice for preparing ahead or enjoying as a quick meal later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this skillet dish if needed, although the texture of cauliflower and mushrooms may slightly soften upon thawing. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low heat in a skillet to preserve the buttery sauce and tender texture or microwave gently covered. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of broth or water to rejuvenate the sauce as it warms through.

FAQs

Can I substitute the mushrooms with another vegetable?

Absolutely! While cremini or baby bella mushrooms bring a deep, earthy flavor, you can swap in shiitake or portobello for a meatier texture, or even roasted eggplant for a different twist. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

To make this skillet vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based margarine or olive oil, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Skip parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative for similar flavor.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but keep in mind that frozen cauliflower contains more water. Thaw and drain it well before cooking, and expect a shorter cooking time since it will soften faster. This helps avoid a soggy dish.

What type of lemon works best here?

Fresh, ripe lemons with bright, fragrant zest and juicy interior work best. Meyer lemons offer a sweeter, less acidic flavor, which also pairs beautifully in this recipe if you prefer a milder citrus note.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Cauliflower and Mushroom Skillet with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as any broth you use does not contain gluten. Always check ingredient labels when substituting.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Cauliflower and Mushroom Skillet with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe is your answer. Simple, quick, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, it’s a wonderful addition to any meal plan. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own—prepare to welcome a new favorite into your recipe rotation!

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