Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
A creamy, flavorful, and low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes made with cauliflower. Perfect as a comforting side dish that is quick to prepare, naturally gluten-free, and adaptable for vegan or dairy-free diets.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Steaming and Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Low-Carb, Keto-Friendly
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into medium-sized florets
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or plant-based milk
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and cut it into medium-sized florets to ensure even cooking. This helps to achieve a soft, mashable texture.
- Cook the Cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until very tender, about 10-12 minutes. Avoid overcooking to preserve delicate flavor.
- Sauté the Garlic: While the cauliflower cooks, gently sauté minced garlic in butter or olive oil until fragrant and golden, infusing the mash with warm aroma.
- Mash the Cauliflower: Drain the cooked cauliflower thoroughly to avoid watery mash. Combine it with the sautéed garlic, cream, and additional butter or olive oil. Mash with a potato masher or blend with an immersion blender to achieve desired creaminess.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in Parmesan cheese, if using. Serve immediately while warm for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Drain cooked cauliflower thoroughly to avoid watery mash.
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor; roasting garlic lightly gives a sweeter profile.
- Avoid over-blending to maintain a slightly chunky, pleasant texture.
- Add cream or milk gradually to find ideal consistency without making mash too runny.
- Serve cauliflower mashed potatoes warm, reheating gently if necessary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: cauliflower mashed potatoes, low-carb mashed potatoes, keto side dish, gluten-free side, creamy mashed cauliflower