Mashed cauliflower

Mashed cauliflower is a creamy low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, featuring tender cauliflower blended with heavy cream, butter, and cheddar cheese for a rich flavor. This dish is easy to prepare and makes a versatile side for various main courses.

21 Apr 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1/4 cauliflower
2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp butter
2 oz cheddar cheese
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
Mashed cauliflower

Mashed cauliflower is a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, offering a creamy and flavorful side dish that's perfect for any meal. This recipe combines cauliflower with heavy whipping cream, butter, and cheddar cheese to create a delightful and savory dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Cut the cauliflower into small florets and wash them thoroughly under cold water.
2. Cook the Cauliflower:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the boiling water.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is very tender. You should be able to easily pierce it with a fork.
3. Drain and Dry:
- Drain the cooked cauliflower well in a colander.
- Pat the cauliflower dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove as much excess moisture as possible.
4. Mash the Cauliflower:
- Place the drained cauliflower in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the 2 tbsp of heavy whipping cream and 2 tbsp of butter to the bowl.
- Use a potato masher, an immersion blender, or a food processor to mash the cauliflower until smooth. Blend until you achieve your desired texture.
5. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and incorporated into the mash.
- Season with a dash of salt and a dash of black pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
6. Serve:
- Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving dish.
- Optionally, garnish with additional shredded cheese, a pat of butter, or freshly chopped herbs like chives or parsley.
7. Enjoy!
- Serve the mashed cauliflower warm as a delicious and low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.

In a few simple steps, you've transformed a humble cauliflower into a rich and creamy side dish. This mashed cauliflower is sure to become a favorite, providing all the comfort of mashed potatoes with fewer carbs and calories.

Mashed cauliflower FAQ:

How long should I cook the cauliflower for mashed cauliflower?

Cook the cauliflower florets in boiling salted water for about 10-15 minutes until very tender. You should be able to easily pierce the florets with a fork.

How can I store leftover mashed cauliflower?

Store leftover mashed cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream in this recipe?

You can substitute heavy whipping cream with milk, half-and-half, or a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut by adjusting the quantity for the desired creaminess.

What type of cheese can I use in place of cheddar?

You can substitute cheddar cheese with other cheeses such as mozzarella, cream cheese, or gouda for a different flavor while maintaining creaminess.

How can I achieve a creamier texture in mashed cauliflower?

For a creamier texture, ensure you drain the cauliflower thoroughly after cooking and consider using a food processor or immersion blender to achieve a smooth consistency.

Cooking Tips:

- Steam the cauliflower instead of boiling to retain more nutrients and avoid excess water absorption.

- For an even creamier texture, consider blending the cauliflower mixture using an immersion blender.

- Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile.

- If you prefer a vegan version, substitute the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream or almond milk, and use a plant-based butter and cheese alternative.

- You can make the mashed cauliflower ahead of time and reheat it in the microwave or oven for a convenient side dish.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 4.28g
Carbohydrates 2.41g
Fiber 0.74g
Sugar 1.01g
Fat 13g

More recipes

Basic pancakes

Make fluffy, golden pancakes with this simple recipe.

21 Apr 2026

Grilled eggplant with coriander, basil and lemon sauce

Enjoy grilled eggplant with a fresh coriander and lemon sauce.

21 Apr 2026

Chocolate cupcakes

Moist chocolate cupcakes made with dark chocolate and sour cream.

21 Apr 2026

Potato and bacon casserole with rosemary and black pepper

Savoury potato and bacon casserole with rosemary and black pepper.

21 Apr 2026

Bay-scented potatoes (batatas com louro)

Savoury bay-scented potatoes soaked in aromatic flavours.

21 Apr 2026

Decadent double chocolate mug brownie

A quick and easy double chocolate brownie made in a mug.

21 Apr 2026

Pecan brownie pudding

Enjoy gooey pecan brownie pudding with chocolate and maple.

21 Apr 2026

Chicken a la king

Creamy Chicken a la King served over fluffy white rice.

21 Apr 2026

Posts