Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Creamy Side Dish

by Ava on April 5, 2025

Looking for a tasty alternative to traditional mashed potatoes? Try my Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower! This creamy, flavorful side dish combines tender cauliflower with roasted garlic and rich cheeses. It’s easy to make and perfect for any meal. Whether hosting a dinner or just cooking for your family, this dish will impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious masterpiece!

$- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets - 1 whole head of garlic - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 1/4 cup cream cheese (or sour cream for a lighter option) - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish) Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is a simple yet delicious side dish. The key flavors come from fresh cauliflower and roasted garlic. The garlic adds a sweet, rich taste that makes this dish special. You will need a medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets. This will give you a light and fluffy texture. A whole head of garlic is also essential. Roasting it brings out its sweet and mellow flavor. For the creamy texture, I use cream cheese. If you want a lighter option, sour cream works well too. Adding grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty bite. Don’t forget the seasoning! Salt and pepper are must-haves to enhance the flavors. Finally, fresh chives add a nice touch. They bring a mild onion flavor and bright color to your dish. Gather these ingredients to create a comforting, creamy side. It’s perfect for any meal and sure to impress your guests! {{ingredient_image_1}} To roast garlic, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the whole head of garlic. This exposes the cloves, allowing them to get soft. Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over the cut side. Next, wrap the garlic head in aluminum foil to keep it moist. Place it on a baking sheet and roast for about 30 to 35 minutes. The garlic should be soft and fragrant when done. While the garlic roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets to the pot. Cook them for about 10 to 12 minutes. You want the cauliflower to be fork-tender. This means it should break apart easily when you poke it with a fork. Once cooked, drain the cauliflower well to remove excess water. In a large mixing bowl, it’s time to combine flavors. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into the bowl. You will have a creamy garlic paste. Add the cooked cauliflower next. Then, mix in the cream cheese, the remaining olive oil, and the grated Parmesan cheese. This combination will create a rich and creamy base. Now comes the fun part! Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash everything together. Mash until it is smooth and creamy. If you want it a bit thinner, add a splash of water or more cream cheese. Adjust the texture to your liking, making sure it’s not too thick or too runny. Once the mashing is done, taste your mixture. Season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. This step makes a big difference in flavor, so don’t skip it! Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl. To make it look pretty, garnish with freshly chopped chives. This adds a nice pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this creamy side dish with your favorite meals! To get the best flavor, roast your garlic well. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off the top of the whole head of garlic. Drizzle it with olive oil and wrap it in aluminum foil. This keeps it soft and sweet. Roast it for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cloves feel soft. For even roasting, place the garlic in the center of the oven. This helps it cook consistently. If you have multiple items in the oven, avoid overcrowding. This way, heat can flow freely. You can make mashed cauliflower lighter by using sour cream. It gives a nice tang without the extra calories from cream cheese. You can also add fresh herbs to boost the flavor. Chives or thyme work well. Mix them in after mashing for a fresh touch. Feel free to experiment with flavors. Adding herbs not only enhances taste but also makes the dish look pretty. To achieve the right creaminess, use a potato masher or an immersion blender. Mash until it reaches your desired smoothness. If it feels too thick, add a little water or more cream cheese. This helps make it silky and smooth. To avoid lumps, ensure your cauliflower is cooked well. Cook it until fork-tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain it well to remove excess water, which can make it mushy. Pro Tips Roasting Garlic: For an even richer flavor, try adding a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary to the garlic before wrapping it in foil. Texture Options: If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash the cauliflower less and leave some small pieces for added bite. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist on the flavor profile. Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of cream. {{image_2}} You can boost the taste of roasted garlic mashed cauliflower with herbs and spices. Try adding rosemary or thyme for a fresh, aromatic touch. These herbs bring out the flavor of the garlic and cauliflower. If you like some heat, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. Both spices can add a nice kick to your dish. Make this dish lighter by swapping cream cheese for Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy flavor without all the fat. If you're looking for vegan options, replace dairy with plant-based cream cheese or cashew cream. These swaps keep the taste rich and satisfying while being healthier. Roasted garlic mashed cauliflower pairs well with meats like chicken or steak. Serve it as a tasty side dish to balance rich flavors. You can also transform this dish into a baked version. Just spread it in a baking dish, top it with cheese, and bake until bubbly. This way, you can enjoy a comforting twist on a classic favorite. To store leftovers, let them cool first. Place the mashed cauliflower in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. You can enjoy it for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Remember to label it with the date, so you know when to finish it. You can freeze mashed cauliflower for longer storage. Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It stays good for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheating is key to keeping the texture nice. Use a pot over low heat or the microwave. Add a splash of cream or water to make it creamy again. Stir often to heat evenly. Serve it warm, and garnish with fresh chives for extra flavor. Roasted garlic mashed cauliflower is a creamy side dish. It blends roasted garlic and tender cauliflower. This dish is a flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes. It offers a rich taste with fewer carbs. I love it for its smooth texture and depth of flavor. You can serve it with meats or enjoy it on its own. Yes, this recipe is gluten-free. All the ingredients, like cauliflower and olive oil, do not contain gluten. You can enjoy this dish without worry. It fits well for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure any added toppings are also gluten-free. Yes, you can easily make this vegan. Replace cream cheese and Parmesan with plant-based options. Use vegan cream cheese or cashew cream instead. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy. This way, you keep the dish creamy and delicious. Cauliflower is cooked when it is fork-tender. You can check this by piercing a floret with a fork. If it goes through easily, it’s done. Overcooking can make it mushy, so watch the time closely. A perfect cook keeps the cauliflower light and fluffy. If you want to avoid garlic, try onion powder or shallots. Both can add a nice flavor without the garlic taste. You can also use herbs like rosemary for a fresh twist. Experimenting helps you find what suits your taste best. In this post, you learned how to make roasted garlic mashed cauliflower. We covered the key ingredients like cauliflower, garlic, and dairy. Each step, from roasting garlic to mixing flavors, was explained clearly. I shared tips for achieving the perfect texture and explored fun variations. Remember, you can customize this dish to fit your taste. By storing leftovers properly, you extend their shelf life and maintain flavor. Enjoy this creamy, guilt-free dish that’s packed with taste and nutrition.$

Why I Love This Recipe

Flavorful Comfort: This roasted garlic mashed cauliflower is a creamy, flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, making it a perfect comfort food with a twist.
Healthier Option: Low in carbs and calories, this dish allows you to enjoy a rich and satisfying side without the guilt, perfect for those watching their diet.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with any protein or serve it at gatherings; this mashed cauliflower complements a wide range of dishes beautifully.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

– 1 whole head of garlic

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

Dairy Ingredients

– 1/4 cup cream cheese (or sour cream for a lighter option)

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Garnish

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is a simple yet delicious side dish. The key flavors come from fresh cauliflower and roasted garlic. The garlic adds a sweet, rich taste that makes this dish special.

You will need a medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets. This will give you a light and fluffy texture. A whole head of garlic is also essential. Roasting it brings out its sweet and mellow flavor.

For the creamy texture, I use cream cheese. If you want a lighter option, sour cream works well too. Adding grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty bite.

Don’t forget the seasoning! Salt and pepper are must-haves to enhance the flavors. Finally, fresh chives add a nice touch. They bring a mild onion flavor and bright color to your dish.

Gather these ingredients to create a comforting, creamy side. It’s perfect for any meal and sure to impress your guests!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Garlic

To roast garlic, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the whole head of garlic. This exposes the cloves, allowing them to get soft. Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over the cut side. Next, wrap the garlic head in aluminum foil to keep it moist. Place it on a baking sheet and roast for about 30 to 35 minutes. The garlic should be soft and fragrant when done.

Cooking the Cauliflower

While the garlic roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets to the pot. Cook them for about 10 to 12 minutes. You want the cauliflower to be fork-tender. This means it should break apart easily when you poke it with a fork. Once cooked, drain the cauliflower well to remove excess water.

Combining Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, it’s time to combine flavors. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into the bowl. You will have a creamy garlic paste. Add the cooked cauliflower next. Then, mix in the cream cheese, the remaining olive oil, and the grated Parmesan cheese. This combination will create a rich and creamy base.

Mashing Process

Now comes the fun part! Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash everything together. Mash until it is smooth and creamy. If you want it a bit thinner, add a splash of water or more cream cheese. Adjust the texture to your liking, making sure it’s not too thick or too runny.

Final Seasoning

Once the mashing is done, taste your mixture. Season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. This step makes a big difference in flavor, so don’t skip it!

Serving Suggestions

Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl. To make it look pretty, garnish with freshly chopped chives. This adds a nice pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this creamy side dish with your favorite meals!

Tips & Tricks

Roasting Tips

To get the best flavor, roast your garlic well. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off the top of the whole head of garlic. Drizzle it with olive oil and wrap it in aluminum foil. This keeps it soft and sweet. Roast it for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cloves feel soft.

For even roasting, place the garlic in the center of the oven. This helps it cook consistently. If you have multiple items in the oven, avoid overcrowding. This way, heat can flow freely.

Mashed Cauliflower Variations

You can make mashed cauliflower lighter by using sour cream. It gives a nice tang without the extra calories from cream cheese. You can also add fresh herbs to boost the flavor. Chives or thyme work well. Mix them in after mashing for a fresh touch.

Feel free to experiment with flavors. Adding herbs not only enhances taste but also makes the dish look pretty.

Texture Adjustments

To achieve the right creaminess, use a potato masher or an immersion blender. Mash until it reaches your desired smoothness. If it feels too thick, add a little water or more cream cheese. This helps make it silky and smooth.

To avoid lumps, ensure your cauliflower is cooked well. Cook it until fork-tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain it well to remove excess water, which can make it mushy.

Pro Tips

Roasting Garlic: For an even richer flavor, try adding a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary to the garlic before wrapping it in foil.
Texture Options: If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash the cauliflower less and leave some small pieces for added bite.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of cream.

Variations

Flavor Additions

You can boost the taste of roasted garlic mashed cauliflower with herbs and spices. Try adding rosemary or thyme for a fresh, aromatic touch. These herbs bring out the flavor of the garlic and cauliflower. If you like some heat, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. Both spices can add a nice kick to your dish.

Healthy Swaps

Make this dish lighter by swapping cream cheese for Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy flavor without all the fat. If you’re looking for vegan options, replace dairy with plant-based cream cheese or cashew cream. These swaps keep the taste rich and satisfying while being healthier.

Different Serving Ideas

Roasted garlic mashed cauliflower pairs well with meats like chicken or steak. Serve it as a tasty side dish to balance rich flavors. You can also transform this dish into a baked version. Just spread it in a baking dish, top it with cheese, and bake until bubbly. This way, you can enjoy a comforting twist on a classic favorite.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To store leftovers, let them cool first. Place the mashed cauliflower in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. You can enjoy it for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Remember to label it with the date, so you know when to finish it.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze mashed cauliflower for longer storage. Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It stays good for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Serving from Storage

Reheating is key to keeping the texture nice. Use a pot over low heat or the microwave. Add a splash of cream or water to make it creamy again. Stir often to heat evenly. Serve it warm, and garnish with fresh chives for extra flavor.

FAQs

What is Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower?

Roasted garlic mashed cauliflower is a creamy side dish. It blends roasted garlic and tender cauliflower. This dish is a flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes. It offers a rich taste with fewer carbs. I love it for its smooth texture and depth of flavor. You can serve it with meats or enjoy it on its own.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free. All the ingredients, like cauliflower and olive oil, do not contain gluten. You can enjoy this dish without worry. It fits well for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure any added toppings are also gluten-free.

Can you make this vegan-friendly?

Yes, you can easily make this vegan. Replace cream cheese and Parmesan with plant-based options. Use vegan cream cheese or cashew cream instead. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy. This way, you keep the dish creamy and delicious.

How do you know when cauliflower is cooked?

Cauliflower is cooked when it is fork-tender. You can check this by piercing a floret with a fork. If it goes through easily, it’s done. Overcooking can make it mushy, so watch the time closely. A perfect cook keeps the cauliflower light and fluffy.

What can I use instead of garlic?

If you want to avoid garlic, try onion powder or shallots. Both can add a nice flavor without the garlic taste. You can also use herbs like rosemary for a fresh twist. Experimenting helps you find what suits your taste best.

In this post, you learned how to make roasted garlic mashed cauliflower. We covered the key ingredients like cauliflower, garlic, and dairy. Each step, from roasting garlic to mixing flavors, was explained clearly. I shared tips for achieving the perfect texture and explored fun variations. Remember, you can customize this dish to fit your taste. By storing leftovers properly, you extend their shelf life and maintain flavor. Enjoy this creamy, guilt-free dish that’s packed with taste and nutritio

Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

A creamy and flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes, featuring roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 40

Total Time 50

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
1 whole head garlic
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 quarter cup cream cheese
1 quarter cup grated Parmesan cheese
to taste salt
to taste pepper
for garnish fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the whole head of garlic, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and wrap it in aluminum foil. Place it on a baking sheet and roast for about 30-35 minutes, until the cloves are soft and fragrant.
Cook the Cauliflower: While the garlic is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 10-12 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain well.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into the bowl (you should have a creamy paste). Add the cooked cauliflower, cream cheese, remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
Mash It Up: Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust the texture by adding a splash of water or more cream cheese if necessary.
Season It: Taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
Serve: Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl, and garnish with chopped chives for a fresh touch.

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute cream cheese with sour cream.

Keyword cauliflower, garlic, mashed, vegetarian