Are you looking for a delicious and creative way to serve mashed cauliflower at your next dinner party or family gathering? Look no further! Cauliflower has become a staple in many diets, from vegan to low-carb, and when prepared with rich and creamy ingredients, it can be a game-changer. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, we’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of mashed cauliflower.
In this article, you’ll discover a variety of creative twists on traditional mashed cauliflower dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy and indulgent or light and refreshing, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. From garlic parmesan to loaded with bacon and cheese, there’s something for everyone.
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy and savory recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and roasted cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted cauliflower, remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Mash with a fork until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Mashed Cauliflower with Bacon and Cheese
Transform your cauliflower into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece with crispy bacon bits and a hint of smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Mash cauliflower with a fork until mostly smooth.
6. Stir in crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream until well combined.
7. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Mashed Cauliflower with Rosemary and Thyme
Herbed Mashed Cauliflower with Rosemary and Thyme Recipe
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful cauliflower mash, infused with the aromatic essence of rosemary and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, heavy cream, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Mashed Cauliflower
Spicy Jalapeño Mashed Cauliflower Recipe
Add a bold twist to your typical mashed potatoes with this Spicy Jalapeño Mashed Cauliflower recipe! This flavorful side dish is perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1-2 jalapeños peppers, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– Salt to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, grated cheddar cheese, or diced cilantro for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with butter, heavy cream or half-and-half, lime juice, and chopped jalapeños on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Mash roasted cauliflower with salt to taste. Add optional flavorings if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Vegan Mashed Cauliflower with Coconut Milk
Elevate your vegetable game with this creamy and indulgent mashed cauliflower recipe, perfect for a comforting side dish or as a base for a vegan “mac and cheese”!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegan butter or margarine
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Toss with vegan butter or margarine, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, coconut milk, lemon juice, and any desired additional flavorings (garlic powder, paprika, or chopped fresh herbs). Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower with Cheddar and Chives
Transform cauliflower into a creamy, cheesy delight with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the cauliflower “rice” and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly tender.
5. Stir in grated cheddar cheese and chopped chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Chive Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy, flavorful cauliflower mash infused with the sweetness of roasted garlic and the brightness of chives.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, roast garlic cloves by placing them on a piece of foil drizzled with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Fold foil to create a packet and roast for 30-35 minutes or until soft.
4. Mash roasted cauliflower with heavy cream, butter, and chives. Squeeze in roasted garlic pulp (discard skins) and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Truffle Oil Mashed Cauliflower with Parmesan
Elevate your side dish game with this decadent and creamy truffle oil mashed cauliflower recipe, finished with a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
3. In a large saucepan, combine truffle oil, butter, and roasted cauliflower. Mash with a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Buffalo Style Mashed Cauliflower with Blue Cheese
Transform cauliflower into a spicy, cheesy delight reminiscent of buffalo wings! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the bold flavors of blue cheese and hot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cauliflower florets, butter, blue cheese crumbles, buffalo wing sauce, and heavy cream.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the smokiness of paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of butter until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine the roasted cauliflower, remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, heavy cream or whole milk, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Mash the mixture with a fork or potato masher until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this bright and citrusy twist on traditional mashed potatoes. This recipe combines the subtle sweetness of cauliflower with the bold flavors of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add the processed cauliflower, lemon zest, juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and mashed-like.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mashed Cauliflower with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy and sweet mash of cauliflower, topped with caramelized onions. A perfect accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until caramelized.
4. Remove the cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly. Mash with a fork or potato masher. Stir in the minced garlic.
5. Add the caramelized onions to the mashed cauliflower. If using cheese, stir it in as well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto Mashed Cauliflower with Pine Nuts
Pesto Mashed Cauliflower with Pine Nuts Recipe
A vibrant twist on traditional mashed cauliflower, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of cauliflower with the bright zing of pesto and the crunch of pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, mash roasted cauliflower using a potato masher or a fork until mostly smooth.
4. Stir in pesto, Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Yogurt Mashed Cauliflower with Dill
Add a refreshing twist to traditional mashed potatoes with this creamy and flavorful Greek yogurt-based cauliflower mash, infused with the brightness of fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, Greek yogurt, and chopped dill. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more yogurt as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Mashed Cauliflower with Sage
Elevate your side dish game with this rich and savory recipe that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the deep, nutty flavor of brown butter and the earthy notes of sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon browned butter (see note)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and toss with garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. In a large skillet, melt the browned butter over medium heat.
6. Add the roasted cauliflower to the skillet and stir in heavy cream or whole milk, chopped sage, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. Mash with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Curry Spiced Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the comfort of mashed cauliflower with the warmth of curry spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Mash roasted cauliflower with chopped onion and garlic in a bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If desired, stir in Greek yogurt to add creaminess.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, sun-dried tomatoes, basil leaves, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mashed Cauliflower with Goat Cheese and Honey
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the tanginess of goat cheese and a hint of honey, creating a delicious and unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Mash cauliflower with a fork until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Stir in crumbled goat cheese and honey until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Style Mashed Cauliflower
Transform your mashed cauliflower into a loaded baked potato-inspired masterpiece! This recipe combines the creamiest mashed cauliflower with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and scallions for an unforgettable side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. In a large bowl, combine cauliflower, butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and thinly sliced scallions.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlicky Mashed Cauliflower with Sour Cream
Transform plain cauliflower into a creamy, garlicky delight with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the butter over the cauliflower and sprinkle with minced garlic.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
7. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your side dish game with these 20 creamy mashed cauliflower recipes! From classic flavors like Garlic Parmesan and Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower, to bold twists like Spicy Jalapeño and Truffle Oil, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re a vegan or a cheese lover, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to please. Try adding herbs like rosemary and thyme for a fresh take, or go all out with loaded toppings like bacon and blue cheese. Whatever your taste buds desire, this collection has got you covered!