This easy recipe for Mashed Cauliflower gives you a vegetable side dish that is low in carbs and tastes just like creamy mashed potatoes. Tastes great with any protein and is suitable for anyone following a low carb or keto lifestyle during the holidays or any time of the year!

Over the last few years, we’ve learned that certain vegetables can morph into healthy substitutes. Zucchini can become pasta, and cauliflower can become rice, pizza crust, or even a great substitute for mashed potatoes!

This recipe is for those who are looking for a lighter version of mashed potatoes or are watching their carbohydrate intake. A big dose of cauliflower is mixed with butter and cheese and is infused with garlic.

It then gets mashed into a creamy side dish that is just as comforting and satisfying as a bowl of mashed potatoes but lighter on the calories and carbs.

This side dish can be served with any protein like this Apple Cider Marinated Pork Loin or Chicken Piccata or it can sit under a bed of Shrimp Curry.

You can also serve it on your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner table to keep things a little lighter so you can enjoy a slice of homemade Pumpkin Pie.

Tips

When choosing a head of cauliflower, make sure it is crisp and tender with minimal bruising or spots on the outside for the freshest results.
Cut the florets all roughly the same size so they all finish cooking in the boiling water at the same time.
If the cauliflower seems too watery at first, keep in mind that it will begin to thicken up as it cools, especially if it’s made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.
When draining the cauliflower, let it sit for at least 5 minutes to get rid of any excess moisture that could end up reabsorbing when blended. You can also press out the water using a potato masher in a colander.
If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a high-speed blender, though you may have to work in batches to make sure it’s creamy and smooth.

Variations

If you’d like a super creamy version of mashed cauliflower, add a tablespoon or two of heavy whipping cream to the food processor.
Season up the mashed cauliflower with your favorite seasonings including curry, Cajun, Greek, Italian, or any seasoning blend you enjoy.
Use purple or green cauliflower for a uniquely beautiful color presentation and additional antioxidants.
You can also change up the flavor by using your favorite toppings including fresh chives, rosemary, chopped bacon, cheddar cheese, diced jalapenos, or caramelized onions.

Top down view of mashed cauliflower with butter and green onions.

Storing and Freezing

Storing: You can store leftover cauliflower mash by adding it to an airtight container and refrigerating for 3-4 days.

Freezing: To freeze any leftovers or extra batches, add the cooled mashed cauliflower to a freezer-safe storage bag and remove as much air as possible, lay flat. Freeze for up to 3 months.

When thawing, remove any excess moisture that shows up in the bag from the thawing process before reheating and serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does cauliflower really taste like mashed potatoes?

While there is a texture difference and a slight taste difference, you can truly make cauliflower taste very close to mashed potatoes by getting the right consistency and seasoning properly just like in this recipe.

Why is my cauliflower mash watery?

This is likely because it was not drained properly or long enough. To ensure a non-watery cauliflower mash, try letting the cauliflower drain in a colander for at least 5 minutes to let the steam escape before processing.

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