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.
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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 is how to make the Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower:
Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower
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!
Nutrition
SIMILAR RECIPES
Pairing suggestions
Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower pairs well with various main courses and drinks. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside it:
- Food Pairings
- Baked Chicken Thighs offer a hearty contrast to creamy cauliflower.
- Pan Roasted Chicken Breasts complement the savory flavors of roasted chicken.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers filled with grains pair well with cauliflower mash.
- Grilled Salmon pairs with the mashed cauliflower for a balanced meal.
- Steak and Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower create a satisfying flavor combination.
- Creamy mash enhances the savory flavor of grilled pork chops.
- Mushroom Risotto is a great choice.
- Roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal.
- A fresh green salad adds a crisp contrast to the dish.
- Drink Pairings
- Mojito brightens the meal with minty freshness.
- Wine balances the dish’s richness with crisp acidity.
- Sparkling water with lemon cleanses the palate with refreshing bubbles.
- Unsweetened iced tea contrasts the creamy texture of the dish.
- Mild herbal tea pairs well with savory dishes.
- Gin and Tonic complement the dish’s savory notes.
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