20 Creamy Mashed Cauliflower Recipes for Every Occasion

Title: 20 Creamy Mashed Cauliflower Recipes for Every Occasion

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes? Look no further! Cauliflower has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. This versatile vegetable can be roasted, grilled, sautéed, or even mashed – the possibilities are endless! In this article, we will explore 20 creamy mashed cauliflower recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family.

From classic garlic parmesan to loaded bacon and cheese, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a vegan looking for a dairy-free option or a meat-lover craving a hearty side dish, we’ve got you covered. With flavors ranging from spicy jalapeños to truffle oil, these recipes are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of creamy mashed cauliflower!

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower: A flavorful twist on classic mashed potatoes!

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted cauliflower, minced garlic, butter, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Use an electric mixer or a potato masher to mash the cauliflower mixture until smooth and creamy.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Loaded Mashed Cauliflower with Bacon and Cheese

Elevate your side dish game with this creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-savory recipe. A twist on traditional mashed potatoes, loaded cauliflower is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add crumbled bacon and cook until crispy.
5. Add the processed cauliflower, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Stir in heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Herbed Mashed Cauliflower with Rosemary and Thyme

Transform cauliflower into a savory, aromatic side dish that’s perfect for any meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with butter, chicken broth, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. Use an immersion blender or a potato masher to mash the cauliflower into desired consistency.
7. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Mashed Cauliflower with Jalapeños

Elevate your side dish game with this bold and creamy cauliflower mash, infused with the spicy kick of jalapeños.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with butter, 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, heavy cream or half-and-half, chopped jalapeños, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in grated cheddar cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (includes roasting time)

Creamy Vegan Mashed Cauliflower

Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy and delicious vegan mashed cauliflower recipe, perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 2 tablespoons vegan cream cheese (softened)
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, non-dairy milk, vegan cream cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower with Cheddar

Transform cauliflower into a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect as a side dish or main course.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work well)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or paprika for added flavor

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 browned.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, cheddar cheese, heavy cream or milk, and garlic powder (if using).
6. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more cream if desired.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Summary:
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy and aromatic Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower recipe. This unique twist on traditional mashed cauliflower combines the nutty flavor of roasted garlic with a hint of lemon zest.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. While the cauliflower is roasting, place the garlic cloves on a separate baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized.
5. Remove the roasted cauliflower and garlic from the oven.
6. In a large bowl, combine the roasted cauliflower, roasted garlic, butter, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Mash until smooth.

Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes

Mashed Cauliflower with Sour Cream and Chives

Elevate your side dish game with this easy-to-make recipe that transforms cauliflower into a creamy, tangy delight.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted cauliflower, sour cream, and chives. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Truffle Oil Mashed Cauliflower

Elevate your side dish game with this decadent and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of truffle oil with the simplicity of roasted cauliflower.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon truffle oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and truffle oil until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Mash the roasted cauliflower with a fork or potato masher to desired consistency.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Serve: Garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired. Enjoy as a side dish or add to your favorite recipes for an added depth of flavor.

Buttery Mashed Cauliflower with Fresh Dill

Elevate your side dish game with this creamy and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the brightness of fresh dill.

Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill leaves, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain the cauliflower and return it to the pot. Add the butter, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Mash with a potato masher or a fork until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in the chopped fresh dill leaves.
5. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Buffalo Style Mashed Cauliflower

Get ready to level up your veggie game with this spicy twist on traditional mashed cauliflower!

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

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 browned.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, heavy cream or Greek yogurt, and hot sauce.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Smoky Paprika Mashed Cauliflower

Elevate your side dish game with this smoky and savory mashed cauliflower recipe, infused with the deep flavor of paprika.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, mash roasted cauliflower with broth using a fork or potato masher until desired consistency is reached.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Lemon Herb Mashed Cauliflower

A refreshing twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the brightness of lemon and herbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 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, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Mashed Cauliflower with Caramelized Onions

This recipe brings together the creamy texture of mashed cauliflower and the sweet, caramelized flavor of onions, creating a delicious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss onion slices with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast onions in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, steam cauliflower florets until tender.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine steamed cauliflower, roasted onions, remaining olive oil, and chicken broth or water.
6. Blend until smooth, adding salt, pepper, garlic powder, or fresh herbs to taste as desired.
7. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Pesto Mashed Cauliflower

This creamy and flavorful recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the brightness of pesto, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Mash the roasted cauliflower with a fork or potato masher.
7. Stir in pesto sauce and Parmesan cheese until well combined.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Greek Yogurt Mashed Cauliflower

Greek Yogurt Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Transform plain mashed cauliflower into a creamy and tangy side dish with this simple recipe. Greek yogurt adds a rich and velvety texture, while a hint of lemon juice provides brightness.

Ingredients:
• 1 head of cauliflower
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Optional: garlic powder or chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill) for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves, stem, and any woody parts.
3. Break the cauliflower into florets and steam until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the steamed cauliflower, butter, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and salt.
5. Mash with a fork or potato masher until smooth and creamy.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including prep time)

Sun-Dried Tomato Mashed Cauliflower

Sun-Dried Tomato Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and healthy twist on traditional mashed cauliflower.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and broth.
5. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Enjoy your delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Mashed Cauliflower!

Mashed Cauliflower with Goat Cheese

This creamy and flavorful side dish is a perfect alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The tangy goat cheese adds a richness that complements the subtle sweetness of the cauliflower.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a food processor or blender, combine roasted cauliflower, goat cheese crumbles, and heavy cream or half-and-half.
6. Process until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Chipotle Lime Mashed Cauliflower

Transform ordinary cauliflower into a flavorful and vibrant side dish with this simple recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, lime juice, chipotle pepper, salt, and black 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. Transfer roasted cauliflower to a blender or food processor with garlic and blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Mashed Cauliflower with Crispy Fried Shallots

A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this recipe combines roasted cauliflower with crispy fried shallots for a delightful side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 shallots, thinly sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Meanwhile, heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Dip shallot slices in flour, then breadcrumbs, then Parmesan cheese. Dredge in beaten egg, shaking off excess.
6. Fry shallots for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden.
7. Drain fried shallots on paper towels. Serve with roasted cauliflower.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes