Creamy Cauliflower Mash
This Creamy Cauliflower Mash is the ultimate low-carb comfort food, transforming steamed cauliflower into a surprisingly smooth and delicious substitute for traditional mashed potatoes.
For 4 servings
Wash and trim the cauliflower, then cut it into 1-2 inch florets. Ensure florets are roughly uniform in size for even cooking.
Place the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over about 1 inch of boiling water in a large pot. Cover tightly and steam for 10-12 minutes, or until the cauliflower is very fork-tender and easily pierced.
Carefully transfer the steamed cauliflower to a colander and let it drain for at least 5 minutes. For the creamiest mash, spread the drained cauliflower on a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and gently pat dry to remove as much excess moisture as possible.
Transfer the thoroughly drained cauliflower to a food processor. Add the butter, cream cheese (or sour cream), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Process until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. This may take 1-2 minutes, depending on your food processor. Avoid over-processing, which can make it gummy.
Taste the mash and adjust seasonings as necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or garlic powder to your preference. If the mash is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of warm milk or cream and blend briefly.
Transfer the creamy cauliflower mash to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh chopped chives, if desired.
Serve hot as a delicious low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes alongside your favorite main dishes.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't skimp on draining: Excess water is the enemy of creamy cauliflower mash. Patting it dry after steaming is crucial for the best texture.
- 2Use a food processor: While an immersion blender can work, a food processor generally yields a smoother, more consistent texture without becoming watery.
- 3Season generously: Cauliflower can be bland, so don't be afraid to season well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. A pinch of nutmeg can also add depth.
- 4Warm ingredients: Using room temperature butter and cream cheese can help them incorporate more smoothly into the hot cauliflower, resulting in a silkier mash.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheesy Cauliflower Mash
Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan cheese while blending for a rich, cheesy version.
Garlic Herb Cauliflower MashGarlic Herb Cauliflower Mash
Sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic in 1 tbsp of olive oil before adding to the food processor, along with 1 tbsp of fresh rosemary or thyme.
Spicy Cauliflower MashSpicy Cauliflower Mash
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce while blending for a subtle kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low in Carbohydrates
Cauliflower is an excellent low-carb alternative to potatoes, making this dish suitable for ketogenic and other low-carb diets.
Rich in Vitamins and Fiber
Cauliflower is packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber, supporting immune health, bone health, and digestive regularity.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
It contains various antioxidants and phytonutrients that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower mash up to 2-3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore creaminess.
