Are you a low-carb lover looking for a delicious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes? Look no further than mashed cauliflower! This cruciferous superstar can be transformed into a rich and creamy side dish that’s perfect for any meal. And with its naturally sweet flavor, it’s easy to add a variety of seasonings and toppings to create unique and exciting flavor profiles.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering recipes for creamy mashed cauliflower that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. From classic garlic parmesan to spicy jalapeño-infused, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a vegan or just looking for a low-carb twist on a comfort food classic, these recipes have got you covered.
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower
Transform cauliflower into a rich and creamy side dish with the flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and place on a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with butter, sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Mash the cauliflower using a potato masher or a fork.
8. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
9. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buttery Mashed Cauliflower with Chives
This recipe is a game-changer for cauliflower lovers! With the addition of butter and chives, this side dish becomes a rich and flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Cut into florets and place on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. In a large bowl, combine the roasted cauliflower, remaining 1 tablespoon butter, milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
7. Mash with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
8. Stir in chopped chives and optional Parmesan cheese (if using).
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Loaded Mashed Cauliflower with Cheese and Bacon
Elevate your mashed potato game with this creamy, cheesy, and savory cauliflower alternative. Perfect for a comforting side dish or as a low-carb substitute.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower, remove leaves and stem, and cut into florets.
3. Toss with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Add cheddar cheese, bacon, and milk to the roasted cauliflower. Mash with a fork or potato masher until desired consistency is reached.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this aromatic cauliflower mash, infused with the herbaceous flavors of rosemary and thyme. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Toss with butter, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, chicken broth, rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Vegan Mashed Cauliflower
Transform cauliflower into a rich and creamy side dish that’s perfect for vegan gatherings or as a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons vegan butter or margarine
– 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as soy, almond, or coconut)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut into florets and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with vegan butter, sprinkle with garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Transfer to a blender or food processor with plant-based milk, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Mashed Cauliflower with Jalapeños
This recipe adds a bold twist to traditional mashed cauliflower by incorporating the spicy kick of jalapeños. Perfect as a side dish or used as a low-carb substitute for mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese or crumbled bacon for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves, stem, and florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Add chopped jalapeños to the roasted cauliflower and mash with a fork until smooth.
6. Stir in heavy cream until desired consistency is reached.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with grated cheddar cheese or crumbled bacon if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mashed Cauliflower with Roasted Garlic
This recipe combines the creaminess of mashed cauliflower with the rich flavor of roasted garlic, creating a unique and tasty side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the cauliflower into florets and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, roast the garlic by placing it on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzling with olive oil, and folding into a packet. Roast alongside the cauliflower for the same amount of time.
6. Remove the cauliflower and garlic from the oven. Mash the roasted cauliflower in a bowl with butter until smooth. Squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skin and add to the mashed cauliflower.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cheddar and Green Onion Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy, cheesy, and flavorful mashed cauliflower recipe that’s perfect for a comforting meal. With the added crunch of green onions, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp works best)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, cheddar cheese, heavy cream or milk, and chopped green onions.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mashed Cauliflower with Sour Cream and Dill
This side dish is a delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes, featuring the subtle flavor of cauliflower, tangy sour cream, and the brightness of fresh dill. It’s perfect for accompanying your favorite meals or as a tasty addition to any buffet.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and toss with butter, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender or food processor.
6. Add sour cream, dill, salt, and pepper; blend until smooth and creamy.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Truffle Oil Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this decadent Truffle Oil Mashed Cauliflower recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be treated to a rich and creamy cauliflower mash infused with the earthy flavor of truffles.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted cauliflower, heavy cream, truffle oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Herbed Mashed Cauliflower with Lemon Zest
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and refreshing take on mashed cauliflower. The combination of herbs, lemon zest, and a hint of garlic adds depth and brightness to this healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with olive oil, garlic, parsley, dill, and lemon zest on a baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Mash the cauliflower with a fork or potato masher to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Ranch Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy and spicy twist on traditional mashed cauliflower.
Ingredients:
• 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
3. Spread the seasoned cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add hot sauce and whisk to combine.
5. Remove roasted cauliflower from oven and add to the saucepan with butter mixture. Mash until smooth and creamy.
6. Stir in grated cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mashed Cauliflower with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your side dishes with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the creaminess of mashed cauliflower with the rich flavor of caramelized onions. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a delicious accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or chives for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, steam the cauliflower florets in a separate pot until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Drain the cooked cauliflower and mash with butter, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to desired consistency.
5. Stir in the caramelized onions and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chipotle Lime Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of mashed cauliflower with the boldness of chipotle peppers and the brightness of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, Greek yogurt, lime juice, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers.
5. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Mashed Cauliflower
Transform plain cauliflower into a rich and creamy side dish with the tanginess of Greek yogurt. This simple recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a healthy alternative to mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mashed Cauliflower with Gouda and Smoked Paprika
Transform ordinary mashed potatoes into a creamy, flavorful side dish by swapping out cauliflower instead! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the richness of Gouda cheese and the smoky depth of smoked paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Gouda cheese
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse and remove the leaves from the cauliflower head.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the processed cauliflower and cook for about 5 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in Gouda cheese, smoked paprika, and salt to taste.
6. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the mixture to a blender) to puree the mixture to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk Mashed Cauliflower (Dairy-Free)
Coconut Milk Mashed Cauliflower (Dairy-Free) Recipe
A creamy and delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this recipe uses cauliflower as a low-carb and flavorful alternative. With the addition of coconut milk, it’s also dairy-free and perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a blender or food processor with coconut milk, garlic powder (if using), and paprika (if using).
7. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more coconut milk if needed to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Mashed Cauliflower with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This vibrant side dish combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the nutritional powerhouse of cauliflower, infused with the rich flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Cut into florets and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cheddar cheese (if using). Blend until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Pesto Mashed Cauliflower
Transform humble cauliflower into a rich and flavorful side dish with the addition of creamy pesto. This recipe is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a healthy substitute for mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of pesto
– 1/2 cup of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, pesto, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
6. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mashed Cauliflower with Goat Cheese and Thyme
This recipe transforms cauliflower into a creamy, flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion. With the tanginess of goat cheese and the earthiness of thyme, this mashed cauliflower is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head under cold water and remove the leaves.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and toss with butter, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Mash the roasted cauliflower in a bowl using a potato masher or fork.
7. Stir in crumbled goat cheese, garlic, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the creamy, low-carb goodness of mashed cauliflower! This versatile vegetable can be transformed into a variety of delicious recipes that are perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle. From classic garlic parmesan to spicy jalapeño and everything in between, this collection of 20 recipes offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a vegan looking for dairy-free options or just seeking new ways to enjoy cauliflower, these creamy mashed cauliflower recipes are sure to become your new go-to side dish.