Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is a creamy, low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This flavorful side dish blends tender cauliflower with garlic and cream cheese for a rich, comforting taste that pairs perfectly with any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower (chopped into small florets)
• 3 ounces low-fat cream cheese (⅜ brick)
• 2 tablespoons salted butter (¼ stick)
• 1½ teaspoons minced garlic (sautéed if not pre-prepared)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Step 2: Place the cooked cauliflower, cream cheese, butter, and minced garlic into a blender or food processor. Pulse until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh rosemary if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, substitute full-fat cream cheese or add a splash of heavy cream.
• Try roasting the cauliflower before mashing for a deeper, nuttier taste.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse less to keep some cauliflower pieces.
• Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can be used instead of rosemary for a different twist.

Storage

Store leftover mashed cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little milk or butter to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cauliflower works well. Thaw and drain it thoroughly before cooking to avoid excess water in the mash.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Replace the cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and olive oil or vegan butter.

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 101 reviews

This Garlic Mashed Cauliflower recipe offers a creamy, flavorful low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Made with tender cauliflower florets blended with cream cheese, butter, garlic, and optional fresh rosemary, it is perfect as a comforting side dish that is both healthy and delicious.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped into small florets
• 3 ounces low-fat cream cheese (⅜ brick)
• 2 tablespoons salted butter (¼ stick)
• 1½ teaspoons minced garlic (sautéed if not pre-minced)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Cauliflower: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the chopped cauliflower florets and cook for 8-10 minutes or until they are fork tender. Once cooked, drain the cauliflower thoroughly to remove excess water.
2. Blend Ingredients: Place the drained cauliflower in a blender or food processor. Add the low-fat cream cheese, salted butter, minced garlic, and fresh rosemary if using. Pulse the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Serve: Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional rosemary if desired and serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Notes

• Make sure to drain the cauliflower well after boiling to avoid watery mashed cauliflower.
• Sautéing fresh garlic before adding can mellow its sharpness and deepen flavor.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
• Fresh rosemary adds a fragrant touch but can be omitted or replaced with thyme for variation.

Keywords: garlic mashed cauliflower, low carb mashed potatoes, creamy cauliflower mash, healthy side dish, low fat recipe