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Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Decadent Side Dish

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- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets - 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/4 cup unsalted butter - 1/2 cup vegetable broth - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh chives or parsley for garnish For this creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, we start with fresh, crisp cauliflower. You need one large head. Cut it into florets for even cooking. Next, we use four cloves of garlic. Mince them well; this adds a rich flavor. You’ll want some creaminess, so grab half a cup of softened cream cheese. It gives the mash that decadent texture. Don’t forget about the butter; we use a quarter cup of unsalted butter. It adds a nice richness. For the liquid, we use half a cup of vegetable broth. This keeps everything moist and flavorful. Now, let’s not skip the seasonings. A little nutmeg enhances the dish's warmth. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, fresh chives or parsley brighten the dish. They add color and freshness when you serve it. With these ingredients ready, you create a creamy, dreamy side dish perfect for any meal. {{ingredient_image_1}} To make creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, start with the cauliflower. You can either steam or boil it. - Steaming method (10-15 minutes): Place the cauliflower florets in a steaming basket over boiling water. Cover it tight. Steam for about 10 to 15 minutes. Check if tender with a fork. - Boiling method (10-12 minutes): Alternatively, you can boil the cauliflower. Put the florets into salted water. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, until tender. Drain well after cooking. While the cauliflower cooks, let’s prepare the garlic. This step adds great flavor to your dish. - Melting butter in skillet: In a medium skillet, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. This step is key to a rich taste. - Sautéing garlic without browning: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the garlic fragrant but not brown. Remove from heat. Now it’s time to blend everything for that creamy texture. - Combining ingredients in food processor: In a food processor, add the steamed or boiled cauliflower. Next, add the sautéed garlic with butter, softened cream cheese, and vegetable broth. - Achieving a smooth and creamy texture: Blend the mixture until smooth. You may need to pause and scrape down the sides. The goal is a creamy, velvety blend. This step is crucial for the perfect texture. Enjoy the process, and soon you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to serve! To get the best creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, start with the right amount of liquid. If your mash seems thick, add a splash of vegetable broth. This helps create the perfect creamy texture. If you want it smoother, keep blending until you reach your desired consistency. To avoid lumps, make sure your cauliflower is cooked well. Steaming or boiling until tender is key. When you blend, ensure all pieces are evenly mixed. A food processor works best for this job. Consider adding spices like paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a kick. You can also try fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add depth. If you want a different garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw. Roasting gives a sweeter, milder taste. Another fun option is to add a bit of cheese, like parmesan, for a richer flavor. Just remember to balance it with salt and pepper so it doesn't overpower the dish. When serving, use a warm bowl to keep the mash hot. This also makes it more inviting. Drizzle a little melted butter on top for a glossy finish. For garnishing, fresh chives or parsley not only add color but also a fresh taste. A sprinkle of paprika can enhance the look too. These little touches can make your dish feel gourmet! Pro Tips Use Fresh Cauliflower: For the best flavor and texture, choose a fresh head of cauliflower with tight, compact florets. Avoid any heads that have brown spots or are soft to the touch. Control the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream cheese and vegetable broth based on your desired creaminess. For a lighter version, you can substitute some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. Enhance Flavor with Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder for an extra flavor boost. Fresh herbs will provide a vibrant taste. Serve Immediately: Creamy garlic mashed cauliflower is best served right after preparation. If you need to keep it warm, place it in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally. {{image_2}} For a dairy-free option, you can swap cream cheese and butter. Try using coconut cream or cashew cream instead of cream cheese. For butter, use olive oil or vegan butter. Both options keep the dish creamy and rich. When choosing broth, pick a vegetable broth or homemade broth. These options add depth to the flavor without dairy. You can boost the taste by adding different cheeses. Creamy feta, sharp cheddar, or tangy goat cheese work well. Each cheese adds a unique twist to the dish. Instead of sautéed garlic, use roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor. Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness and adds a lovely depth. For a heartier side, mix mashed cauliflower with mashed potatoes. This blend brings a creamy texture and a comforting taste. You can also add other root veggies like carrots or turnips. This mix adds color and flavor, making your dish more interesting. To keep your creamy garlic mashed cauliflower fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge within two hours after cooking. This keeps it safe to eat and full of flavor. It lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Just remember to check for any off smell or changes in texture before serving. You can freeze creamy garlic mashed cauliflower if you want to save some for later. Use freezer-safe containers that seal well. Leave a little space at the top since it may expand. It stays good in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results. To reheat, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to get even heat. For the stovetop, warm it in a pot over low heat. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or cream. This helps keep it creamy and smooth. Enjoy it warm! Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. After you prepare the creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, let it cool. Then place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir in a bit of broth or cream to restore the creaminess. To prevent watery mashed cauliflower, steam it instead of boiling. Steaming keeps more water inside the cauliflower. Also, ensure to drain any excess liquid after cooking. If you use broth, add it slowly. Start with a little, then blend until you reach the right consistency. This helps keep your dish creamy without being runny. Creamy garlic mashed cauliflower pairs well with many dishes. It goes great with roasted meats, like chicken or beef. You can also serve it with grilled fish or a hearty vegetable stew. For a complete meal, add a fresh salad for crunch and color. Absolutely! You can add flavor with herbs like thyme or rosemary. Mixing in cheese, like Parmesan or cheddar, gives a rich taste. For a spicy kick, try adding red pepper flakes. You can even use roasted garlic instead of fresh for a sweeter flavor. In this post, we explored how to make creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, covering ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfection. I shared variations for different diets and preferences, along with storage information. Remember, this dish is versatile, easy, and delicious. You can enjoy it as a side or mix it with other foods. Follow these tips to impress your family and friends with the perfect creamy texture and flavor. Embrace your creativity and make this recipe your own!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, you’ve hit the jackpot! My Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is a decadent twist on your classic mashed potatoes. This dish is easy to make and a fantastic way to enjoy veggies. In this post, I’ll guide you through simple steps and share tips to elevate your cooking. Let’s dive into the world of creamy goodness!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Healthier Alternative: This creamy garlic mashed cauliflower is a fantastic low-carb substitute for traditional mashed potatoes, making it a guilt-free side dish.
  2. Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, cream cheese, and nutmeg creates a rich, savory flavor that elevates any meal.
  3. Quick & Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
  4. Versatile Garnish: Fresh chives or parsley add a vibrant touch, while a sprinkle of paprika can bring an extra pop of color and flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth

Seasoning Components

  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives or parsley for garnish

For this creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, we start with fresh, crisp cauliflower. You need one large head. Cut it into florets for even cooking. Next, we use four cloves of garlic. Mince them well; this adds a rich flavor.

You’ll want some creaminess, so grab half a cup of softened cream cheese. It gives the mash that decadent texture. Don’t forget about the butter; we use a quarter cup of unsalted butter. It adds a nice richness.

For the liquid, we use half a cup of vegetable broth. This keeps everything moist and flavorful.

Now, let’s not skip the seasonings. A little nutmeg enhances the dish’s warmth. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, fresh chives or parsley brighten the dish. They add color and freshness when you serve it.

With these ingredients ready, you create a creamy, dreamy side dish perfect for any meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cauliflower

To make creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, start with the cauliflower. You can either steam or boil it.

  • Steaming method (10-15 minutes): Place the cauliflower florets in a steaming basket over boiling water. Cover it tight. Steam for about 10 to 15 minutes. Check if tender with a fork.
  • Boiling method (10-12 minutes): Alternatively, you can boil the cauliflower. Put the florets into salted water. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, until tender. Drain well after cooking.

Cooking Garlic

While the cauliflower cooks, let’s prepare the garlic. This step adds great flavor to your dish.

  • Melting butter in skillet: In a medium skillet, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. This step is key to a rich taste.
  • Sautéing garlic without browning: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the garlic fragrant but not brown. Remove from heat.

Blending the Mixture

Now it’s time to blend everything for that creamy texture.

  • Combining ingredients in food processor: In a food processor, add the steamed or boiled cauliflower. Next, add the sautéed garlic with butter, softened cream cheese, and vegetable broth.
  • Achieving a smooth and creamy texture: Blend the mixture until smooth. You may need to pause and scrape down the sides. The goal is a creamy, velvety blend.

This step is crucial for the perfect texture. Enjoy the process, and soon you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to serve!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Texture

To get the best creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, start with the right amount of liquid. If your mash seems thick, add a splash of vegetable broth. This helps create the perfect creamy texture. If you want it smoother, keep blending until you reach your desired consistency.

To avoid lumps, make sure your cauliflower is cooked well. Steaming or boiling until tender is key. When you blend, ensure all pieces are evenly mixed. A food processor works best for this job.

Enhancing Flavor

Consider adding spices like paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a kick. You can also try fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add depth. If you want a different garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw. Roasting gives a sweeter, milder taste.

Another fun option is to add a bit of cheese, like parmesan, for a richer flavor. Just remember to balance it with salt and pepper so it doesn’t overpower the dish.

Presentation Tips

When serving, use a warm bowl to keep the mash hot. This also makes it more inviting. Drizzle a little melted butter on top for a glossy finish.

For garnishing, fresh chives or parsley not only add color but also a fresh taste. A sprinkle of paprika can enhance the look too. These little touches can make your dish feel gourmet!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Cauliflower: For the best flavor and texture, choose a fresh head of cauliflower with tight, compact florets. Avoid any heads that have brown spots or are soft to the touch.
  2. Control the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream cheese and vegetable broth based on your desired creaminess. For a lighter version, you can substitute some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
  3. Enhance Flavor with Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder for an extra flavor boost. Fresh herbs will provide a vibrant taste.
  4. Serve Immediately: Creamy garlic mashed cauliflower is best served right after preparation. If you need to keep it warm, place it in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally.

Variations

Dairy-Free Version

For a dairy-free option, you can swap cream cheese and butter. Try using coconut cream or cashew cream instead of cream cheese. For butter, use olive oil or vegan butter. Both options keep the dish creamy and rich.

When choosing broth, pick a vegetable broth or homemade broth. These options add depth to the flavor without dairy.

Flavor Additions

You can boost the taste by adding different cheeses. Creamy feta, sharp cheddar, or tangy goat cheese work well. Each cheese adds a unique twist to the dish.

Instead of sautéed garlic, use roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor. Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness and adds a lovely depth.

Mixing with Other Veggies

For a heartier side, mix mashed cauliflower with mashed potatoes. This blend brings a creamy texture and a comforting taste.

You can also add other root veggies like carrots or turnips. This mix adds color and flavor, making your dish more interesting.

Storage Info

Short-Term Storage

To keep your creamy garlic mashed cauliflower fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge within two hours after cooking. This keeps it safe to eat and full of flavor. It lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Just remember to check for any off smell or changes in texture before serving.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze creamy garlic mashed cauliflower if you want to save some for later. Use freezer-safe containers that seal well. Leave a little space at the top since it may expand. It stays good in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating Methods

To reheat, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to get even heat. For the stovetop, warm it in a pot over low heat. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or cream. This helps keep it creamy and smooth. Enjoy it warm!

FAQs

Can I make creamy garlic mashed cauliflower ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. After you prepare the creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, let it cool. Then place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir in a bit of broth or cream to restore the creaminess.

How do I prevent the cauliflower from being watery?

To prevent watery mashed cauliflower, steam it instead of boiling. Steaming keeps more water inside the cauliflower. Also, ensure to drain any excess liquid after cooking. If you use broth, add it slowly. Start with a little, then blend until you reach the right consistency. This helps keep your dish creamy without being runny.

What can I serve with creamy garlic mashed cauliflower?

Creamy garlic mashed cauliflower pairs well with many dishes. It goes great with roasted meats, like chicken or beef. You can also serve it with grilled fish or a hearty vegetable stew. For a complete meal, add a fresh salad for crunch and color.

Can I add other flavors or ingredients to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add flavor with herbs like thyme or rosemary. Mixing in cheese, like Parmesan or cheddar, gives a rich taste. For a spicy kick, try adding red pepper flakes. You can even use roasted garlic instead of fresh for a sweeter flavor.

In this post, we explored how to make creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, covering ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfection. I shared variations for different diets and preferences, along with storage information. Remember, this dish is versatile, easy, and delicious. You can enjoy it as a side or mix it with other foods. Follow these tips to impress your family and friends with the perfect creamy texture and flavor. Embrace your creativity and make this recipe your ow

- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets - 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/4 cup unsalted butter - 1/2 cup vegetable broth - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh chives or parsley for garnish For this creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, we start with fresh, crisp cauliflower. You need one large head. Cut it into florets for even cooking. Next, we use four cloves of garlic. Mince them well; this adds a rich flavor. You’ll want some creaminess, so grab half a cup of softened cream cheese. It gives the mash that decadent texture. Don’t forget about the butter; we use a quarter cup of unsalted butter. It adds a nice richness. For the liquid, we use half a cup of vegetable broth. This keeps everything moist and flavorful. Now, let’s not skip the seasonings. A little nutmeg enhances the dish's warmth. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, fresh chives or parsley brighten the dish. They add color and freshness when you serve it. With these ingredients ready, you create a creamy, dreamy side dish perfect for any meal. {{ingredient_image_1}} To make creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, start with the cauliflower. You can either steam or boil it. - Steaming method (10-15 minutes): Place the cauliflower florets in a steaming basket over boiling water. Cover it tight. Steam for about 10 to 15 minutes. Check if tender with a fork. - Boiling method (10-12 minutes): Alternatively, you can boil the cauliflower. Put the florets into salted water. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, until tender. Drain well after cooking. While the cauliflower cooks, let’s prepare the garlic. This step adds great flavor to your dish. - Melting butter in skillet: In a medium skillet, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. This step is key to a rich taste. - Sautéing garlic without browning: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the garlic fragrant but not brown. Remove from heat. Now it’s time to blend everything for that creamy texture. - Combining ingredients in food processor: In a food processor, add the steamed or boiled cauliflower. Next, add the sautéed garlic with butter, softened cream cheese, and vegetable broth. - Achieving a smooth and creamy texture: Blend the mixture until smooth. You may need to pause and scrape down the sides. The goal is a creamy, velvety blend. This step is crucial for the perfect texture. Enjoy the process, and soon you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to serve! To get the best creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, start with the right amount of liquid. If your mash seems thick, add a splash of vegetable broth. This helps create the perfect creamy texture. If you want it smoother, keep blending until you reach your desired consistency. To avoid lumps, make sure your cauliflower is cooked well. Steaming or boiling until tender is key. When you blend, ensure all pieces are evenly mixed. A food processor works best for this job. Consider adding spices like paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a kick. You can also try fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add depth. If you want a different garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw. Roasting gives a sweeter, milder taste. Another fun option is to add a bit of cheese, like parmesan, for a richer flavor. Just remember to balance it with salt and pepper so it doesn't overpower the dish. When serving, use a warm bowl to keep the mash hot. This also makes it more inviting. Drizzle a little melted butter on top for a glossy finish. For garnishing, fresh chives or parsley not only add color but also a fresh taste. A sprinkle of paprika can enhance the look too. These little touches can make your dish feel gourmet! Pro Tips Use Fresh Cauliflower: For the best flavor and texture, choose a fresh head of cauliflower with tight, compact florets. Avoid any heads that have brown spots or are soft to the touch. Control the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream cheese and vegetable broth based on your desired creaminess. For a lighter version, you can substitute some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. Enhance Flavor with Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder for an extra flavor boost. Fresh herbs will provide a vibrant taste. Serve Immediately: Creamy garlic mashed cauliflower is best served right after preparation. If you need to keep it warm, place it in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally. {{image_2}} For a dairy-free option, you can swap cream cheese and butter. Try using coconut cream or cashew cream instead of cream cheese. For butter, use olive oil or vegan butter. Both options keep the dish creamy and rich. When choosing broth, pick a vegetable broth or homemade broth. These options add depth to the flavor without dairy. You can boost the taste by adding different cheeses. Creamy feta, sharp cheddar, or tangy goat cheese work well. Each cheese adds a unique twist to the dish. Instead of sautéed garlic, use roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor. Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness and adds a lovely depth. For a heartier side, mix mashed cauliflower with mashed potatoes. This blend brings a creamy texture and a comforting taste. You can also add other root veggies like carrots or turnips. This mix adds color and flavor, making your dish more interesting. To keep your creamy garlic mashed cauliflower fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge within two hours after cooking. This keeps it safe to eat and full of flavor. It lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Just remember to check for any off smell or changes in texture before serving. You can freeze creamy garlic mashed cauliflower if you want to save some for later. Use freezer-safe containers that seal well. Leave a little space at the top since it may expand. It stays good in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results. To reheat, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to get even heat. For the stovetop, warm it in a pot over low heat. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or cream. This helps keep it creamy and smooth. Enjoy it warm! Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. After you prepare the creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, let it cool. Then place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir in a bit of broth or cream to restore the creaminess. To prevent watery mashed cauliflower, steam it instead of boiling. Steaming keeps more water inside the cauliflower. Also, ensure to drain any excess liquid after cooking. If you use broth, add it slowly. Start with a little, then blend until you reach the right consistency. This helps keep your dish creamy without being runny. Creamy garlic mashed cauliflower pairs well with many dishes. It goes great with roasted meats, like chicken or beef. You can also serve it with grilled fish or a hearty vegetable stew. For a complete meal, add a fresh salad for crunch and color. Absolutely! You can add flavor with herbs like thyme or rosemary. Mixing in cheese, like Parmesan or cheddar, gives a rich taste. For a spicy kick, try adding red pepper flakes. You can even use roasted garlic instead of fresh for a sweeter flavor. In this post, we explored how to make creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, covering ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfection. I shared variations for different diets and preferences, along with storage information. Remember, this dish is versatile, easy, and delicious. You can enjoy it as a side or mix it with other foods. Follow these tips to impress your family and friends with the perfect creamy texture and flavor. Embrace your creativity and make this recipe your own!

Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

A delicious and creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, made with cauliflower and garlic.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh chives or parsley

Instructions
 

  • Place the cauliflower florets in a steaming basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 10-15 minutes or until tender. Alternatively, you can boil the cauliflower in salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
  • While the cauliflower is steaming, melt the butter in a medium skillet over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • In a food processor, combine the steamed cauliflower, sautéed garlic with butter, cream cheese, and vegetable broth. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  • Add nutmeg and season with salt and pepper to taste. Blend again briefly to incorporate all the flavors.
  • Scoop the creamy garlic mashed cauliflower into a serving bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color.

Notes

Serve in a warm bowl, drizzling a little extra melted butter on top before garnishing with herbs. Adding a sprinkle of paprika can also elevate the color and appeal!
Keyword creamy, garlic, mashed cauliflower, vegetarian

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