Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
This Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower features tender, fluffy cauliflower florets folded together with sour cream, cream cheese, and butter, infused with aromatic garlic powder for a rich, savory side dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping a nutritious, low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
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Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 30 ounces frozen cauliflower florets or 1 large head of fresh cauliflower, chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream for tanginess and richness
- 2 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons butter softened for a silky texture
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder or 4 cloves fresh minced garlic for a bolder flavor
- salt and pepper to taste, adjust at the end for perfect seasoning
Instructions
- Boil the Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your cauliflower florets, cooking for 10-12 minutes until they're fork-tender and easily break apart.
- Drain Thoroughly: Place the cooked cauliflower in a colander and drain well, pressing gently to remove excess moisture which ensures a creamier final texture.
- Return to Pot: Transfer the drained cauliflower back to the warm pot, which helps any remaining moisture evaporate quickly.
- Combine Dairy: Add the softened cream cheese, butter, and sour cream to a small bowl and stir until mostly smooth and well combined.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the garlic powder and season with a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preference.
- Mash the Base: Using a potato masher or hand mixer, gently mash the warm cauliflower until it reaches your desired consistency, whether chunky or completely smooth.
- Fold in Cream: Add the cream cheese mixture to the mashed cauliflower and fold gently until all the dairy is incorporated and the mixture is creamy and uniform.
- Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed, keeping in mind that the dairy adds richness that may require less salt than you'd initially expect.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and top with fresh chives or parsley if desired, then serve immediately while still warm and creamy.