Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower is a delicious and wholesome alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Bursting with flavor, this dish is creamy, buttery, and packed with the irresistible taste of garlic and Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any meal where you want to impress your guests and indulge in comfort food without the extra carbs. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 150
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 280mg

Why Make This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower

This recipe delivers all the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes but with the added health benefits of cauliflower. Cauliflower is low in calories yet high in nutrients like vitamin C, K, and fiber, making this dish a guilt-free pleasure. The rich flavor of garlic and Parmesan elevates the cauliflower, making it a crowd-pleaser that can easily steal the show at any dinner table. It also pairs well with a variety of main dishes, making it versatile for any meal.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower

Ingredients:

1 head of cauliflower
3 cloves garlic
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Cut the cauliflower into florets and boil them in a pot of salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes. This cooking method helps to soften the cauliflower until it is easy to mash.
Step 2: Sautéing

While the cauliflower is cooking, mince the garlic and sauté it in butter over medium heat until fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the garlic’s flavor, giving your mash a wonderfully aromatic base.
Step 3: Mixing

Drain the cooked cauliflower and transfer it to a mixing bowl. Add in the sautéed garlic, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and the remaining butter, then mash everything together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Step 4: Finishing

Season your creamy mashed cauliflower with salt and pepper to taste. Once seasoned, transfer it to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a lovely pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower

Serve this delightful dish warm as a side to your favorite entrees. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even vegetarian options like stuffed bell peppers. For an added touch, consider serving it alongside a rich gravy or mushroom sauce for contrast.

How to Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower

To store any leftovers, place the mashed cauliflower in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or a bit of butter to restore its creamy consistency.

Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower

Ensure the cauliflower is tender enough before mashing; it should break apart easily.
Feel free to adjust the amount of Parmesan and garlic to suit your taste preferences.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk or almond milk.
Adding a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavor and add brightness to the dish.

Delicious Variations

Herbed Variation: Mix in fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Cheesy Spinach Cauliflower Mash: Add cooked spinach and a bit more cheese for a heartier option.
Roasted Garlic Version: Roast the garlic instead of sautéing for a sweeter, mellow flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, warm it up, and serve it later. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Absolutely! Cauliflower is a great low-carb alternative to potatoes, making this dish a great fit for low-carb diets.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the mashed cauliflower. Just store it in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to a month.
Is this a good option for meal prep?
Definitely! It keeps well and can be easily reheated, making it a perfect choice for meal prep.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with almost any main dish, including roasted chicken, steak, or a hearty vegetarian stew.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower is a wonderful dish that not only tastes fantastic but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. It’s a simple yet impressive side that your family and friends will love. Dive into the creamy, garlicky goodness and enjoy the satisfaction of serving a nutritious, mouthwatering dish. Happy cooking!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower

Author: mia-harper
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delicious and wholesome alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, this creamy garlic Parmesan mashed cauliflower is packed with flavor and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

1 head of cauliflower
3 cloves garlic
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cut the cauliflower into florets and boil them in a pot of salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
Mince the garlic and sauté it in butter over medium heat until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Drain the cooked cauliflower, transfer to a mixing bowl, and add in the sautéed garlic, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and remaining butter. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, transfer to a serving dish, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of cream or butter if needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiling and Mixing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 150
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg