Save This Cauliflower Mash with Garlic is my favorite way to get the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes with a lighter veggie-packed twist. Rich with roasted garlic and a splash of butter it is the kind of side dish that makes everyone at the table happy but feels so nourishing and guilt-free.
I first whipped this up on a night when mashed potatoes sounded perfect but I wanted to keep things light My family loved it so much that it quickly became a weeknight staple and even makes a regular appearance on our holiday table
Ingredients
- Cauliflower florets: These are the backbone of the dish Look for bright white firm heads with no dark spots For a silkier mash steam or boil until very soft
- Garlic cloves: Roasting the garlic brings out its natural sweetness and depth I love using organic garlic for an even more aromatic result
- Unsalted butter: Adds classic richness Choose high quality butter for best flavor
- Cream cheese or sour cream: This is my secret ingredient for extra smoothness and slight tang Any style works but I have found that brick cream cheese gives the silkiest texture
- Milk or plant-based milk: A splash helps blend everything together and gives the mash a soft creamy finish Opt for whole milk or an unsweetened plant milk if dairy free
- Salt: Use flaky sea salt if possible for better flavor control
- Black pepper: Freshly ground gives the best punchy bite
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley: Optional but highly recommended I grab whichever herb is freshest at the market as both add color and freshness
Instructions
- Prep and Boil the Cauliflower and Garlic:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season it with a generous pinch of salt Add your cauliflower florets along with whole garlic cloves Simmer them gently for about 12 minutes The florets should be so tender that they fall apart easily with a fork and the garlic will mellow and sweeten
- Drain Thoroughly:
- Drain the cooked cauliflower and garlic in a colander Let them rest for a few moments so extra water steams away This ensures you get a mash that is creamy not watery
- Mash or Puree:
- While still warm transfer everything to a food processor or a large mixing bowl Add butter cream cheese milk salt and pepper Process until completely smooth and silky Scrape down the sides occasionally to make sure no lumps remain If you do not have a processor mash by hand for a more rustic texture
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste your mash and add an extra sprinkle of salt or pepper if needed Sometimes I add another splash of milk at this stage if I want an even softer consistency
- Garnish and Serve:
- Scoop your cauliflower mash into a serving bowl Top with lots of chopped chives or parsley for a fresh lift Serve hot straight to the table while it is at peak creaminess
Save I once made an extra garlicky batch for my sister who cannot get enough garlic She always says this mash tastes like comfort in a bowl and asks for the recipe every time she comes to visit I love how even picky eaters go for seconds thanks to that creamy dreamy texture
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep beautifully covered in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave stirring in a splash of milk if it feels too thick I often double the recipe so we can enjoy quick lunches with a soft cooked egg on top
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap butter and cream cheese with your favorite vegan versions if you prefer dairy free Greek yogurt is also delicious instead of cream cheese If you run out of chives try fresh tarragon or dill to change up the flavor profile
Serving Suggestions
This mash is amazing alongside roasted chicken grilled steak or even grilled portobellos For special occasions I use it as a bed for braised short ribs or garlicky sausages Sometimes I spoon extra mash into a baking dish top with a little parmesan and broil for a golden crust
Cultural and Historical Context
Mashed cauliflower first took off as a low carb craze but its roots go way back in European home cooking I love how this recipe honors both modern health trends and classic comfort foods blending the best of both worlds
Seasonal Adaptations
Add a handful of spinach or kale in the last three minutes of boiling for a green boost Try adding roasted pumpkin or sweet potato as the weather gets cooler Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil for a fall holiday upgrade
Success Stories
A friend made this for her big family Thanksgiving and the bowl was scraped clean before the mashed potatoes even made it around One reader told me her picky toddler finally loved veggies thanks to this mash Another reader topped theirs with crispy shallots for a fancy dinner party and it was a hit
Freezer Meal Conversion
Cauliflower mash can be made ahead and frozen in airtight containers for up to two months Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat gently adding a bit more milk to restore creaminess I like to portion it into single servings for super fast sides on busy weeknights
Save This cauliflower mash turns any meal into comfort food and feels special every time but still fits a busy weeknight. Enjoy a creamy bowl that makes healthy eating taste truly indulgent.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I make cauliflower mash creamy?
Use butter, cream cheese, and milk. Mashing thoroughly creates a smooth and creamy texture.
- → Can I use roasted garlic?
Yes! Roasting garlic before mashing adds extra depth and sweetness to the flavor.
- → Is this suitable for low-carb diets?
Absolutely; cauliflower is a low-carb base, making this mash perfect for reducing carbohydrates.
- → What herbs work best for garnish?
Fresh chives or parsley add color and a hint of freshness to the finished mash.
- → How should I serve cauliflower mash?
Serve hot as a side with roasted meats, poultry, or vegetarian main dishes.
- → Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.