Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower is a quick and easy dish to prepare. It requires only a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time. It fits into my busy schedule while still being delicious.
Contents
Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower Recipe
Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This dish combines the creamy texture of cauliflower with the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese. It is low in carbs, gluten-free, keto-friendly, and packed with nutrients.
Its creamy texture and rich, cheesy flavor make it a popular choice for those seeking lighter, guilt-free comfort food. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. It is a crowd-pleaser for both veggie lovers and picky eaters.
This side goes well with proteins like baked chicken thighs, pan-roasted chicken breasts, grilled salmon, steak, and grilled pork chops. It also complements heartier dishes such as stuffed bell peppers, meatloaf, and mushroom risotto.
For a lighter meal, it works perfectly alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. The mash’s creamy, cheesy notes are enhanced by dishes featuring herbs and garlic, making it an ideal base for vegetarian options like meatless meatballs or grilled meats.
This is how to make the Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower:
Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower about 4 cups florets
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil for a lighter version
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup milk or heavy cream for extra richness
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp onion powder optional
- Fresh parsley or chopped green onion for garnish optional
Instructions
- Cut the cauliflower into florets and steam for 10-12 minutes until very tender. (You can also boil it for about 10 minutes.)
- If boiling, drain thoroughly to remove excess water. Let it sit for a minute to dry slightly—this helps prevent a watery mash.
- In a food processor or with a potato masher, combine the cauliflower, butter, Parmesan, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- If too thick, add a splash of milk. If too thin, let it sit for a minute to thicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm as a delicious, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes!
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of sour cream or cream cheese.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash with a fork instead of blending.
- Try roasting the garlic beforehand for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Perfect alongside grilled chicken, steak, or roasted veggies!
SIMILAR RECIPES:
Variations
Here are some variations for Parmesan mashed cauliflower:
- Dairy-Free Version:
- Replace butter with olive oil or coconut oil
- Substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk
- Skip Parmesan, add 2 tbsp nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
- Add 1 tsp lemon juice to brighten flavors.
- Vegan Version:
- Use olive oil instead of butter
- Replace milk with unsweetened plant-based milk
- Skip Parmesan, add 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- Add 1 tsp white miso paste for umami
- Add ½ tsp Dijon mustard for depth
- Extra Luxurious Version:
- Use 3 tbsp butter instead of 2
- Replace milk with heavy cream
- Increase Parmesan to ½ cup
- Add 2 oz cream cheese
- Add ¼ tsp nutmeg
- Top with crispy fried shallots
- Mediterranean Style:
- Use olive oil instead of butter
- Add 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes
- Include 1 tsp dried oregano
- Add 2 tbsp chopped kalamata olives
- Mix in 1 tbsp capers
- Top with crumbled feta instead of Parmesan
- Garlic Herb Version:
- Double the garlic (4 cloves)
- Add 1 tbsp each fresh chopped rosemary and thyme
- Include ¼ cup fresh chopped chives
- Add ½ tsp garlic powder for extra depth
- Mix in 2 tbsp softened roasted garlic