Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Smooth, buttery, and loaded with garlicky flavor—this creamy mashed cauliflower is the low-carb side dish you've been missing.

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Buttery mashed cauliflower topped with chopped chives, served in a white dish.
Suitable for Vegetarian and Gluten-Free diets
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Why You'll Love Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

There's something deeply satisfying about comfort food—and mashed potatoes often top that list. But sometimes, I just want the same creamy experience without the heavy carb load. This mashed cauliflower delivers all that goodness, and with the kick of garlic and the tang of cream cheese, you won't be missing anything.

I love how quickly it comes together—15 minutes and you're ready to eat. The best part is, it pairs with just about anything: grilled chicken, seared tofu, or even a big plate of roasted veggies. It's become a permanent fixture in my rotation for a reason.

A few tips to get the perfect mash:

  • Make sure the cauliflower is steamed until fully tender, so you get that velvety texture when blending.
  • Don’t skimp on the butter and garlic—they turn simple cauliflower into a total flavor bomb.
  • A splash of milk helps, but don’t overdo it—add bit by bit until it's just right for you.

This is a must for any comfort food lover who wants to keep things on the lighter side without giving up on flavor.

Buttery mashed cauliflower topped with chopped chives, served in a white dish.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower


Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 servings

Smooth, rich, and buttery mashed cauliflower with garlic and chives—a perfect low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.


Ingredients


Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large pot, steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-15 minutes.

  2. 2

    In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

  3. 3

    Transfer the steamed cauliflower and sautéed garlic to a food processor. Add cream cheese and milk. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the milk as necessary for desired consistency.

  4. 4

    Add salt and pepper to taste. Blend again to combine.

  5. 5

    Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with chopped chives if desired, and enjoy your creamy garlic mashed cauliflower.

Notes

You can substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese for a tangier flavor.

Add roasted garlic for an even deeper garlic taste.

Recipe can be doubled easily for more servings.

Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Category:Side Dish
Cuisine:American

Nutrition Facts

Serves: 4 servings

Calories Per Serving: 120

Total Fat: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Protein: 3 g

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Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

Can I make this mashed cauliflower vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based butter, vegan cream cheese, and a non-dairy milk alternative to make this recipe fully vegan.

Can I make mashed cauliflower ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to 2 days in advance. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Can I freeze mashed cauliflower?

Mashed cauliflower can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly after thawing. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently, stirring well.

How do I prevent mashed cauliflower from being watery?

Thoroughly drain or blot the steamed cauliflower before blending, and add milk only as needed to reach your desired consistency.

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