Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Introduction

Creamy garlic mashed cauliflower is a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This smooth and flavorful side dish combines tender cauliflower with rich cream cheese, butter, and Parmesan for a comforting, satisfying flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
• Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, place a steamer basket over an inch of boiling water. Add the cauliflower florets, cover, and steam for 10-12 minutes until fork-tender.
2. Step 2: While the cauliflower steams, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat.
3. Step 3: Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a large bowl or food processor. Add the sautéed garlic with butter, cream cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
4. Step 4: Mash the mixture using a potato masher or blend in the food processor until smooth and creamy. Add extra heavy cream if needed to reach your desired consistency.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
6. Step 6: Serve the mashed cauliflower hot, garnished with chopped fresh chives or parsley for color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra creamy texture, blend the cauliflower with an immersion blender instead of mashing.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese to add a tangy note and reduce fat.
• Add cooked bacon bits or shredded cheese on top for extra flavor and texture.
• Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in place of chives for a different twist.

Storage

Store leftover mashed cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess if it thickens.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used. Thaw and drain any excess water before steaming or microwaving to avoid watery mashed cauliflower.

Is this dish suitable for a keto diet?

Absolutely. Cauliflower is low in carbs, and this recipe uses high-fat dairy, making it a great keto-friendly side dish.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 60 reviews

This creamy garlic mashed cauliflower recipe is a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Featuring steamed cauliflower blended with sautéed garlic, butter, cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, this dish offers a rich and velvety texture with a flavorful garlic punch, perfect as a comforting side for any meal.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Steaming and Blending
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cauliflower Base

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets

Garlic Butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

Creamy Components

• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)

Garnish

• Chopped fresh chives or parsley

Instructions

1. Steam the Cauliflower: In a large pot, place a steamer basket over about an inch of boiling water. Add the cauliflower florets to the basket, cover with a lid, and steam for 10-12 minutes until the cauliflower is fork-tender but not mushy.
2. Sauté Garlic: While the cauliflower steams, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and set aside to infuse the butter with garlic flavor.
3. Blend Ingredients: Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a food processor. Add the sautéed garlic and butter mixture, cream cheese, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder.
4. Mash or Process: Using a potato masher or preferably a food processor, blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. If the mash is too thick, gradually add more heavy cream until the desired creamy consistency is achieved.
5. Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Sample the mashed cauliflower and add additional salt and pepper if needed to suit your taste preferences.
6. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the creamy garlic mashed cauliflower to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

• Steaming the cauliflower helps retain nutrients and creates a light texture ideal for mashing.
• Sautéing the garlic in butter enhances its flavor and mellows its pungency.
• You can use a food processor for a smoother texture or a potato masher for a bit of chunkiness.
• Adjust the consistency by adding more or less heavy cream based on your preference.
• This dish is an excellent low-carb, keto-friendly alternative to mashed potatoes.

Keywords: mashed cauliflower, creamy mashed cauliflower, low carb side dish, garlic mashed cauliflower, keto mashed cauliflower, healthy mashed cauliflower