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.

28 Dec 2025
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 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.

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 per serving

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

Mashed cauliflower