Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is a tasty and lighter twist on traditional mashed potatoes. It’s creamy, smooth, and packed with the wonderful flavor of roasted garlic and fresh cauliflower. This dish…
Tip: save now, cook later.Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is a tasty and lighter twist on traditional mashed potatoes. It’s creamy, smooth, and packed with the wonderful flavor of roasted garlic and fresh cauliflower. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy comfort food without feeling too heavy.
I love making Garlic Mashed Cauliflower when I want something cozy but still a bit fresh. Adding garlic gives it a rich, warm flavor that really makes the dish stand out. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in just one pot, which makes cleanup a breeze.
I often serve this mash alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser at the dinner table. If you’re trying to sneak some veggies onto your plate without anyone noticing, this garlic mashed cauliflower is a great way to do it. It’s creamy and delicious enough to satisfy everyone, even those who usually prefer potatoes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star of the dish. Choose a fresh head with firm florets for the best texture and flavor. If you can’t find fresh, frozen cauliflower works well—just thaw and drain the excess water before using.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice punch. Roasted garlic is a softer alternative if you want a milder, sweeter flavor. Garlic powder can work in a pinch but won’t be as vibrant.
Butter and Cream: Butter adds richness while cream makes the mash smooth. For a dairy-free version, try olive oil instead of butter and coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. These swaps keep it creamy without milk.
Seasonings: Salt and pepper bring out the flavors, so don’t skip them. Fresh parsley adds a lovely fresh touch at the end, but you can also use chives or green onions if you like.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Texture Without It Getting Watery?
The biggest trick is draining the cauliflower well after cooking. Cauliflower holds a lot of water, so if it’s too wet the mash can turn out runny. Here’s how I do it:
- After boiling or steaming, drain the cauliflower thoroughly in a colander.
- Let it sit for a few minutes or gently press with a clean kitchen towel to remove extra moisture.
- When blending, add liquids slowly. Add cream or milk in small amounts until it reaches your preferred creaminess.
- Use a food processor or blender for the smoothest texture. A hand masher can leave it a bit chunkier, if you like.
These steps help you get a dreamy, thick mash that isn’t soupy or watery. Keep tasting as you go to balance creaminess and garlic flavor until it feels just right for you.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil or steam the cauliflower evenly and quickly.
- Small skillet – for gently sautéing garlic to bring out its flavor.
- Food processor or blender – makes the mash smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Colander – to drain the cooked cauliflower well and avoid watery mash.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to scrape down the sides of the processor while blending.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add Parmesan cheese for a sharp, cheesy note that pairs great with garlic.
- Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky, crunchy texture contrast.
- Mix in roasted or steamed broccoli florets for extra color and nutrients.
- Replace butter with olive oil and add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a lighter, herbaceous twist.
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 pounds), cut into florets
- 3-4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (adjust for desired creaminess)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil or extra butter (for drizzling, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking. Most of the time is spent boiling the cauliflower until tender and blending the ingredients to get a nice creamy texture. You can have this ready in under 20 minutes, making it a quick and tasty side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Cauliflower:
Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil on medium-high heat. Add the cauliflower florets and cook them until they are very tender, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Then, drain the cauliflower well to remove excess water.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the cauliflower cooks, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook it gently until it becomes fragrant and a light golden color, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Then, take the pan off the heat.
3. Blend Everything Together:
Transfer the drained cauliflower to a food processor or blender. Add the sautéed garlic along with its butter, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and the heavy cream. Blend everything until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. If the mash feels too thick, add a little more cream or milk to reach your preferred texture.
4. Season and Serve:
Season the mash with salt and pepper to taste, blending briefly to mix it in. Pour the garlic mashed cauliflower into a serving bowl. For an extra touch, drizzle a little olive oil or melted butter on top. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and some freshly ground black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen cauliflower works great! Just thaw it completely and drain any excess water before cooking or blending to avoid watery mashed cauliflower.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Swap the butter for olive oil or a dairy-free margarine, and use coconut milk or your favorite plant-based cream instead of heavy cream. This keeps it creamy without dairy.
Can I Prepare Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Make it up to a day in advance and store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the texture if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
Reheat over low heat on the stove or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a little cream or butter while reheating helps maintain that smooth, creamy texture.
