Print

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Creamy mashed cauliflower is a smooth, flavorful side dish that’s a lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Simmered with garlic and blended with butter, Parmesan, and optional sour cream, it’s silky, savory, and perfect for pairing with almost any main course.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling, Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 kilogram cauliflower florets (about 1 medium to large head), trimmed evenly
  • 2 whole garlic cloves, peeled
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 25 grams freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about ¼ cup)
  • 55 grams sour cream (about ¼ cup), optional
  • 1 to 3 tablespoons reserved cauliflower cooking water
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnish: melted butter, chopped parsley, cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cut cauliflower into even florets for uniform cooking. If some are large, cut them smaller.
  2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and garlic cloves. Boil for about 10 minutes until very soft.
  3. Reserve 1 cup of cooking water, then drain cauliflower and garlic thoroughly.
  4. Transfer cauliflower and garlic to a food processor or blender. Add butter, Parmesan, and sour cream (if using).
  5. Blend until mostly smooth, then gradually add reserved cooking water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired creaminess is reached.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Blend briefly to incorporate seasoning.
  7. Transfer mash to a serving bowl. Garnish with melted butter, parsley, and extra pepper if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use frozen cauliflower if fresh isn’t available—just drain thoroughly after cooking.
  • Make dairy-free by using olive oil or vegan butter and omitting Parmesan and sour cream.
  • Roast the cauliflower and garlic instead of boiling for deeper flavor.
  • Add herbs like thyme, chives, or rosemary for freshness.
  • For a spicier version, mix in cayenne or hot sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/creamy-mashed-cauliflower/