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- 1 medium head cauliflower, chopped into florets - 6 garlic cloves, unpeeled - 2 tablespoons olive oil These three ingredients are key to our creamy mash. Cauliflower gives a light texture. Garlic adds a rich, roasted flavor. Olive oil helps bring everything together. - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/4 cup milk (or plant-based milk) - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - Salt and pepper to taste Cream cheese makes the mash rich and creamy. Milk adds moisture, which is important. Nutmeg provides warmth and depth. Salt and pepper enhance the overall taste. - Chives, chopped - Parsley, chopped These garnishes add a fresh touch. Chives give a mild onion flavor. Parsley brightens the dish with color and taste. You can use one or both to make your mash look great. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the cauliflower roast well. 2. Next, chop one medium head of cauliflower into florets. Spread these florets on a baking sheet. 3. Add six unpeeled garlic cloves to the baking sheet. Drizzle two tablespoons of olive oil over the cauliflower. 4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything so that the oil coats the cauliflower evenly. 1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for about 25 to 30 minutes. 2. You will know it’s done when the cauliflower is tender and the garlic is soft and lightly golden. 1. Once roasted, let the cauliflower and garlic cool slightly. Squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skins into a bowl. 2. In a food processor, combine the roasted cauliflower, garlic, half a cup of softened cream cheese, and a quarter cup of milk. 3. Add a pinch of nutmeg and more salt and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth and creamy. 4. If the mash feels thick, add a bit more milk to reach your desired texture. 5. Transfer the creamy mash to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh touch. To boost the taste of your creamy roasted garlic cauliflower mash, focus on roasting. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in cauliflower. It also gives the garlic a rich, caramelized flavor. - Roasting tips: Use high heat and keep an eye on the garlic. Aim for that golden brown color. It takes about 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). - Suggested seasoning adjustments: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten the dish. For a smooth, creamy mash, blending is key. Use a food processor, as it ensures even consistency. - Blending tips: Start at a low speed, then increase gradually. This helps prevent lumps. - Troubleshooting thickness issues: If the mash feels too thick, add more milk. Just a tablespoon at a time until it’s perfect. Cauliflower is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is low in calories but high in fiber. - Nutritional advantages of cauliflower: It contains vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. It supports digestion and boosts your immune system. - Comparing to traditional mashed potatoes: Cauliflower mash has fewer carbs and more nutrients. This makes it a great swap for classic mashed potatoes. Pro Tips Choose the Right Cauliflower: Use a fresh, firm head of cauliflower for the best texture. Look for florets that are tightly packed and free of brown spots. Roast for Flavor: Roasting the garlic with the cauliflower enhances its sweetness and depth of flavor. Don't skip this step for maximum taste! Adjust Consistency: If your mash is too thick, gradually add more milk until you reach the desired creaminess. This allows for a smoother texture that’s easier to enjoy. Garnish Creatively: Besides chives or parsley, consider toppings like crispy bacon bits, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added flavor and visual appeal. {{image_2}} You can easily change the taste of your creamy roasted garlic cauliflower mash. Add cheese like Parmesan or cheddar for a rich flavor. Mixing in herbs and spices can also brighten the dish. Try thyme for earthiness or rosemary for a hint of pine. If you want a vegan option, swap out the cream cheese for plant-based cream cheese. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious without dairy. For those on low-carb or keto diets, this cauliflower mash makes a great side dish. It is a healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Pair your mash with proteins like grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete meal. You can also serve it in bowls, topped with chives or parsley for a pop of color. This mash works well as a side dish at family dinners or holiday gatherings. After making your creamy roasted garlic cauliflower mash, let it cool. Store it in a sealed container. It will keep well in your fridge for about 3 to 5 days. If you notice any signs of spoilage, toss it out. To reheat, I suggest using the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, add a splash of milk. Heat it slowly over low heat, stirring often. This helps keep the texture smooth. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst until warm. You can freeze the mash if you want to save some for later. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Press out the air to avoid freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. To make your mash creamier, add more cream cheese or milk. Blend it longer for a silkier texture. If it feels thick, add a splash of milk. Taste as you go to get it just right. You can also try adding a spoonful of butter for extra richness. These small changes can elevate your creamy roasted garlic cauliflower mash. Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just thaw it before cooking. Drain any excess water to avoid a watery mash. You may need to adjust the cooking time. Roast the thawed cauliflower at 400°F (200°C) until it’s tender. Follow the same blending steps as fresh cauliflower for a smooth result. You can swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt or ricotta for a lighter option. Instead of milk, try almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. For garlic lovers, add more cloves for a stronger flavor. Nutmeg adds warmth, but if you don’t have it, use a pinch of cinnamon instead. These swaps can change the dish’s taste while keeping it delicious. This blog post gives you a complete guide to making creamy cauliflower mash. You learned about the key ingredients, helpful steps, and tips for the best flavor. Variations let you customize the dish to your taste. Storing and reheating tips ensure your mash stays fresh. Remember, this dish is a healthy alternative to mashed potatoes and is easy to adapt for different diets. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and textures. With practice, you’ll be a cauliflower mash expert in no time.

Creamy Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Mash

A smooth and creamy mashed cauliflower dish infused with roasted garlic.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, chopped into florets
  • 6 cloves garlic, unpeeled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 0.5 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 0.25 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
  • 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish chives or parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Spread the cauliflower florets and unpeeled garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  • Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the garlic is soft and lightly golden.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skins into a bowl.
  • In a food processor, combine the roasted cauliflower, roasted garlic, cream cheese, milk, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy to your desired consistency.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If it feels too thick, add a bit more milk until the desired texture is achieved.
  • Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped chives or parsley.

Notes

For a vegan version, substitute cream cheese and milk with plant-based alternatives.
Keyword cauliflower, creamy, garlic, mashed, vegetarian