Attention all flavor fanatics! Are you ready to transform your taste buds into absolute LEGENDS? Introducing the ultimate Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – a revolutionary side dish that’s about to blow your mind! This epic recipe is the perfect combination of creamy, dreamy, and INSANELY delicious. Trust me, y’all are about to experience a flavor explosion like never before.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
This Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is the ultimate game-changer in the side dish department. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Cauliflower is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a nutritional powerhouse. Plus, the addition of garlic and a few other secret ingredients takes this dish to a whole new level of EPIC. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this sensational side that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
To create this flavor-packed masterpiece, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients: cauliflower florets, garlic, butter, cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. That’s it! These classic components come together to form a luxuriously creamy and insanely delicious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets – the star of the show
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced – adds a bold, savory flavor
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter – for that rich, creamy texture
- 4 ounces of cream cheese – makes it extra lush and indulgent
- 1/2 cup of milk – helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency
- Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors
Ingredient Substitutions
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap out the butter and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese (because we don’t want to miss out on the creamy goodness!)
- Garlic-Free: Not a fan of garlic? No problem! You can easily omit it or replace it with your favorite fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for a different flavor profile.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Get ready to transform your kitchen into a flavor paradise, y’all! This Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is so easy to make, you’ll be whipping it up on the regular.
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by gathering your ingredients and preheating your oven to 400°F. Cut the cauliflower florets into bite-sized pieces and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast until fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
While the cauliflower is roasting, mince the garlic and set it aside. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Transfer the roasted cauliflower to the saucepan with the garlic butter and use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the cauliflower until smooth and creamy. Stir in the cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper, and continue to mash and mix until the mixture is well combined and your desired consistency is achieved.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Taste the Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower and adjust the seasoning as needed. For an extra indulgent touch, you can stir in a handful of shredded cheese or top the dish with crispy bacon bits.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Creamier Texture: For an even richer and creamier consistency, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the mashed cauliflower.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese or shredded cheddar for an extra indulgent flavor boost.
- Flavor Twist: Experiment with different herbs and spices, like rosemary, thyme, or paprika, to create your own unique variation of this sensational side dish.
- Crispy Topping: Top the Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower with crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful contrast of textures.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Juicy steak, roasted chicken, or your favorite main dish.
Storage: Leftover cauliflower mash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Simply reheat the cauliflower mash in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Make-Ahead: You can absolutely prepare this Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Nutrition Information
This Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is a healthier and more nutritious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Cauliflower is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals, making this dish a win-win for your taste buds and your waistline.
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 125 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbs: 8 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cauliflower florets work just as well in this recipe. Simply follow the instructions, starting with roasting the frozen cauliflower.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare this Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower in advance. Simply follow the recipe, then store the mashed cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat the cauliflower on the stove or in the microwave.
How can I make this recipe even creamier?
For an extra creamy texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the mashed cauliflower. You can also use a higher ratio of cream cheese to milk.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze this Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower. Allow the cauliflower mash to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cauliflower in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I serve with this Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower?
The possibilities are endless! This side dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, and even as a topping for baked potatoes or burgers. It’s also a delicious accompaniment to your favorite holiday dishes, like turkey or ham.
Try These Next
- Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
- Creamy Garlic Mashed Potato Bake
- Creamy Garlic Mac And Cheese With Crispy Bacon Crumble
Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Sides
- Method: Boiling and Mashing
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This dish is rich in flavor and perfect as a side for any meal.
Ingredients
1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup cream cheese
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
1. 1. Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10 minutes.
2. 2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. 3. Drain the cauliflower and transfer it to a mixing bowl.
4. 4. Add the sautéed garlic, cream cheese, and milk to the cauliflower.
5. 5. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed.
6. 6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped chives.
8. 8. Serve warm as a side dish.
Notes
For a vegan version, substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
Adjust the consistency by adding more or less milk as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: mashed cauliflower, garlic, side dish