Best Ever Mashed Cauliflower (Keto-Friendly, Low-Carb Side Dish)
Key Info:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegetarian (Vegan options available)
Equipment Needed:
- Large pot or saucepan
- Steamer basket
- Food processor or blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Alternative: Microwave-safe bowl with cover for steaming
Ingredients:
- 1 large cauliflower head (about 2 pounds/900g), cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter [substitute: olive oil for vegan]
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream [substitute: dairy-free cream cheese]
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan [optional]
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg [optional]
Method:
- Fill pot with 2 inches of water and insert steamer basket.
- Place cauliflower florets in basket and cover. Steam for 10-12 minutes until fork-tender.
- While cauliflower cooks, sauté minced garlic in 1 tablespoon butter until fragrant (30 seconds).
- Drain cauliflower thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels (crucial step!).
- Transfer to food processor with remaining butter, sour cream, and garlic.
- Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape sides as needed.
- Add parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Pulse to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasonings.
Crucial Tips:
- Remove as much moisture as possible after cooking.
- Don’t overprocess – it can become gluey.
- Season generously – cauliflower needs it.
- Let steam escape before blending to prevent a soupy texture.
Storage & Scaling:
- Keeps refrigerated for 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of cream or butter.
- Recipe easily halves or doubles.
- Freezes well for up to 1 month.
Variations:
- Roasted Garlic: Swap fresh garlic for a whole roasted garlic head.
- Loaded: Top with bacon, chives, and cheddar.
- Herbs: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage.
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter and nutritional yeast.
Common Mistakes:
- Skipping the drying step – leads to watery mash.
- Under-seasoning – cauliflower needs bold flavors.
- Not cutting florets evenly – ensures even cooking.
- Using cold butter – should be room temperature for smooth blending.
This recipe gives you all the comfort of mashed potatoes with a fraction of the carbs. Perfect for holiday tables or everyday meals when you want something special but healthy.
