Next time you’re craving some comfort food but want to keep it on the healthier side, give mashed cauliflower a try; it just might become your new go-to side dish.
Easy cauliflower mash recipe
This creamy cauliflower mashed potatoes are super easy to make – all you need is a head of cauliflower, some cream cheese, butter, and a few other simple ingredients. The cauliflower is steamed until it’s soft, and then blended together with the rest of the ingredients until it reaches that creamy, velvety texture we all love in a good mash.
Not to mention, you likely have all the ingredients you need for this recipe already in your fridge.
What’s so great about mashed cauliflower?
I know what you’re thinking – how can cauliflower even come close to the creamy, warm goodness of mashed potatoes? I was skeptical too, but once I tried it, I was totally hooked. It’s not just perfect for people who want a lower-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, but it’s also perfect for everyone who loves good food.
Don’t get me wrong – I still love mashed potatoes, but there’s something about mashed cauliflower that feels lighter and fresher. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak more veggies into your diet, especially if you’ve got picky eaters at home.
And the best part? You can customize it however you want. A fan of garlic? Throw some roasted garlic in there. Want a little more flavor? Add grated Parmesan cheese, or mix in some herbs like rosemary or thyme. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients for mashed cauliflower potatoes
- Cauliflower: The star of the show, a fresh head of cauliflower, should be chosen for its firm texture and white color with no dark spots. The cauliflower will be cut into small florets and steamed until tender, providing the base for the mashed dish.
- Butter: Adding butter contributes to the richness and depth of flavor in the mashed cauliflower. Unsalted butter is typically used, allowing you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Garlic: Incorporating garlic into mashed cauliflower brings a burst of flavor that complements the dish beautifully. Garlic can be roasted, sautéed, or even used fresh, depending on your taste preferences.
- Cream Cheese: To enhance the creaminess and add a touch of tanginess, some people like to include softened cream cheese in their mashed cauliflower recipe.
- Seasonings: Adding spices like onion powder and garlic powder will elevate the dish further, creating a more complex and balanced flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper: Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential to bring out the flavors of the ingredients and customize the dish to your liking.
How to make cauliflower mash (Step by step)
Try my creamy garlic cauliflower mash to satisfy your cravings while also nourishing your body!
- Prep and rinse the florets.
- Steam them in a pot for 10-12 minutes until tender.
- Sauté garlic in butter, then blend it with the cauliflower, more butter, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Adjust seasonings, transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately.
What to Do If Mashed Cauliflower is Watery
If your mashed cauliflower turns out watery, there are a few things you can do to thicken it up:
- Strain the cauliflower: Place the mashed cauliflower in a fine mesh strainer over a bowl, and let it sit for a few minutes. This will allow the excess moisture to drain out, leaving you with a thicker mash.
- Add more cauliflower: If you have more cooked cauliflower on hand, you can add it to the watery mash and blend it in until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add cheese: Adding cheese to the mashed cauliflower can help thicken it up and give it a creamier texture. Choose a cheese that melts well, like cheddar, parmesan, or gruyere, and stir it into the mash until it is fully melted and incorporated.
- Reheat and reduce: You can try reheating it in a saucepan over medium heat and stirring it constantly until the excess moisture evaporates and the mash thickens up.
Tips for making a good cauliflower mash
- Choose a firm and fresh head of cauliflower. Make sure it has no dark spots or blemishes. The fresher the cauliflower, the more flavorful your mash will be.
- Cut the cauliflower into small, even-sized florets. This will ensure that they cook evenly and quickly.
- Rinse the florets under cold water and drain well. This will remove any dirt or debris that may be on the cauliflower.
- Don’t overcook the cauliflower. Overcooking will result in a watery and mushy mash. Be sure to keep an eye on the cauliflower while it’s steaming and remove it from the heat as soon as it’s tender.
FAQs
Is mashed cauliflower healthier than mashed potatoes?
Yes, mashed cauliflower is a healthier alternative to mashed potatoes. It contains fewer calories and carbohydrates and more fiber and vitamins. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily vegetable intake.
Do cauliflower mashed potatoes taste like real potatoes?
Yes, cauliflower mashed potatoes can taste like real potatoes if prepared correctly. To get the most potato-like flavor, use a combination of butter and cheese to add richness and flavor.
What to serve with cauliflower mash?
First, you will want to pick a protein to serve it with; meat such as lamb chops, steak, or pork chops are classics, but you can also pair it with seafood like salmon, cod, or shrimp.
After you decide on your protein, make it a full meal by adding some veggies, such as roasted carrots, green beans, or asparagus.
How long does cauliflower mash last in the fridge?
It should remain fresh for 3 to 5 days when kept in an airtight container or ziplock bag. You can also easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
More easy mash recipes you’ll enjoy
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Irio- African-style mashed potatoes
- Garlicky mashed potatoes
- Mashed sweet potatoes
Easy Cauliflower Mash Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese softened
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the cauliflower: Remove the outer leaves and cut the cauliflower into small, even-sized florets. Rinse them under cold water and drain well.
- Steam the cauliflower: Fill a large pot with about 1 inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place a steamer basket inside the pot and add the cauliflower florets. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the cauliflower for 10-12 minutes or until it is very tender and easily breaks apart when pierced with a fork. If you don't have a steamer basket, simply fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the cauliflower florets. Cook until the cauliflower is tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain in a colander and let it cool for a few minutes. This step helps to evaporate any excess moisture.
- Sauté the garlic: In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Blend the ingredients: In a food processor or high-powered blender, combine the steamed cauliflower, sautéed garlic and butter, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the food processor or blender as needed. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- Serve and garnish: Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh chives or parsley. Serve immediately
- Note: For a cheesy twist, add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan or your favorite cheese to the mixture before blending.
Nutrition
Let’s connect on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. I love keeping in touch with you; nothing brings me more joy than seeing pictures of your creations. Tag me @cheflolaskitchen on Instagram and Facebook.