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Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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