Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Cheese (Printable)
Creamy mashed cauliflower with roasted garlic and melted cheese for a flavorful low-carb side.
# What You Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
02 - 2 cloves garlic, peeled
→ Dairy
03 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 1/3 cup sour cream
05 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
06 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Seasonings
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
09 - 2 tablespoons chopped chives or parsley (optional garnish)
# How to Make It:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and garlic cloves. Boil until cauliflower is very tender, approximately 10 to 12 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
02 - Place drained cauliflower and garlic into a food processor or mixing bowl. Add butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
03 - Process or mash the mixture until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed based on taste.
04 - Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve warm.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It tastes indulgent and rich, but won't leave you feeling heavy afterward.
- People genuinely can't tell it's cauliflower unless you reveal it, which makes it perfect for converting skeptics.
- The roasted garlic adds a subtle sweetness that makes every bite feel special.
02 -
- Drain your cauliflower until it's completely dry—moisture is the enemy of creamy mash and will make it watery and sad.
- Roasting garlic by boiling it with the cauliflower transforms it from sharp to sweet, which is the secret ingredient nobody expects.
03 -
- Save a handful of cauliflower florets before mashing and fold them in at the end for a little texture and visual interest, especially if your guests like rusticity.
- For an extra layer of flavor, brown your butter first before adding it to the mash—the nutty, caramelized notes elevate the entire dish in ways that are impossible to describe until you taste it.