Name: Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets; ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons butter (plus more for serving); 2 tablespoons cream cheese; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt; Fresh chives, chopped; Additional melted butter

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 14 reviews

If you love the comforting, creamy texture of mashed potatoes but want a lighter, veggie-packed twist, this Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes Recipe is about to become your new favorite side dish. It transforms tender cauliflower into a dreamy, rich mash that’s subtly cheesy, perfectly buttery, and seasoned just right. Whether you’re looking to cut carbs or simply add more veggies to your plate, this recipe delivers all the cozy satisfaction of classic mashed potatoes with a fresh, wholesome spin.

Ingredients You'll Need

A large white bowl filled with many small, cream-colored cauliflower florets is placed on a white marbled surface. To the right, there are five small clear glass bowls arranged closely in two columns. The top left bowl contains finely shredded white cheese, while the top right bowl holds a brownish spice mix. Below, a square piece of pale yellow butter sits in one bowl, with a bowl of light beige cream cheese below it. The last bowl holds fine white salt. The scene is well lit, showing textures of the ingredients clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All the ingredients for this Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes Recipe are simple staples, yet each one plays a key role in achieving that luscious texture and depth of flavor. From the creamy cheeses that add richness to the subtle garlic that lifts the savory notes, everything works together beautifully.

Cauliflower florets: The star of the dish, providing a mild base that soaks up all the delicious additions.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty punch that makes the mash irresistibly savory.
Butter: Brings richness and smoothness, plus a touch more for serving if you love extra indulgence.
Cream cheese: Enhances creaminess without overwhelming the lightness of the cauliflower.
Garlic powder: A gentle hint of warmth and depth to round out the flavor profile.
Salt: Essential for bringing all the tastes together and enhancing the natural sweetness of cauliflower.
Fresh chives (optional): Adds a pop of color and mild oniony brightness when sprinkled on top at serving.

How to Make Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Steam the Cauliflower to Fork Tender

Begin by steaming your cauliflower florets until they’re soft enough to easily pierce with a fork, which takes about 10 to 12 minutes. This step is crucial as it softens the cauliflower perfectly. Letting them cool slightly and patting away extra moisture ensures your mash turns out creamy, not watery.

Step 2: Blend Ingredients Until Smooth and Creamy

Transfer the warm cauliflower to a large bowl and add the Parmesan cheese, butter, cream cheese, garlic powder, and salt. Use an immersion blender for silky smoothness in just under a minute. If you prefer a bit of texture, you can mash the mixture with a fork instead, creating a chunkier, rustic feel.

Step 3: Serve Warm with Toppings

To finish your Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes Recipe, serve it warm with an extra pat of butter for richness and a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives for bright, vibrant flavor. These little touches make the dish feel special and restaurant-worthy.

How to Serve Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes Recipe

The first layer shows a metal pan filled with large white cauliflower florets placed on a white marbled surface. The second layer features a white bowl filled with the same cauliflower florets but cooked, resting on a white marbled surface. The third layer shows the cooked cauliflower mixed in a white bowl with a thick square of butter, a small dollop of cream, toothlike grated cheese, and light brown seasoning, all on a white marbled surface. The fourth layer is a close-up of the cauliflower mixture in the white bowl after being mashed with a silver potato masher, showing a creamy, textured yellowish mixture, set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped chives or finely chopped parsley bring a burst of color and fresh flavor that contrasts the creamy mash beautifully. A drizzle of melted butter or a small dollop of sour cream can add extra indulgence if you’re feeling decadent.

Side Dishes

This mash pairs wonderfully with roast chicken, grilled steak, or seared fish. It’s also a fantastic complement to hearty stews or even a Thanksgiving turkey dinner, providing a lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes without sacrificing taste.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cauliflower mash in a small ramekin topped with crisp bacon bits and chives for a fun appetizer. For a festive twist, swirl in a spoonful of pesto or sprinkle the top with toasted nuts—both add intriguing textures and flavors that’ll wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The mash may firm up a bit once chilled, but it reheats beautifully and can easily be loosened with a splash of milk or cream.

Freezing

Freezing cauliflower mash is possible but best done with caution. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a little butter, cream, or milk while warming to restore creaminess and keep the mash from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cauliflower works well and can save prep time. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking to avoid a watery mash.

Is this Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes Recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes! Cauliflower is much lower in carbs than potatoes, making this a great low-carb alternative while still giving you that creamy mashed texture.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter and cheeses with dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, keeping the dish creamy and delicious.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

No immersion blender? No problem! You can use a regular blender, food processor, or even a potato masher depending on your preferred texture.

How can I make this recipe more flavorful?

Try adding roasted garlic instead of garlic powder, or stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more complex flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes Recipe is such a wonderful way to enjoy a comfort food classic with a nutritious twist. I hope you give it a try soon because it’s simple, satisfying, and downright delicious. Once you taste how creamy and flavorful it is, you might never go back to traditional mashed potatoes again!