Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower (Printable Version)

Creamy mashed cauliflower blended with roasted garlic, offering a light and flavorful low-carb side.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets (approximately 2.5 lbs)
02 - 1 whole garlic bulb

→ Dairy

03 - 1/4 cup whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter)

→ Seasonings

05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus additional to taste)
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)

# How to Make It:

01 - Set the oven to 400°F.
02 - Slice the top off the garlic bulb to expose cloves, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in aluminum foil, and roast for 30-35 minutes until soft and golden.
03 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add cauliflower florets, and cook for 10-12 minutes until very tender; drain thoroughly and let it sit to evaporate excess moisture.
04 - Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins.
05 - Combine cauliflower, roasted garlic, butter, milk, salt, and pepper in a food processor or mash by hand until smooth and creamy; adjust seasoning to taste.
06 - Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl, garnish with chopped chives if desired, and serve warm.

# Expert Insights:

01 -
  • It tastes indulgent and creamy without the heaviness of traditional mashed potatoes—your body feels grateful after eating it
  • Roasted garlic becomes this sweet, mellow version of itself, adding depth without any sharp bite
  • Ready in 50 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday spreads
  • Naturally low-carb and works for vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets with simple swaps
02 -
  • Don't skip letting the drained cauliflower rest—this single step prevents your mash from becoming gluey and wet
  • Roasting the whole garlic bulb unpeeled is crucial. Peeled or sliced garlic will burn; whole cloves become sweet and mellow instead of sharp
  • If your mash seems too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time rather than all at once. It's easier to thin than to thicken
03 -
  • For extra richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream right before serving—it adds a subtle tang that brightens everything
  • If you're making this for guests with dietary restrictions, prepare the cauliflower and garlic ahead of time; then finish the mashing just before serving for the creamiest texture

Go Back