Garlic Butter Mashed Cauliflower

I still remember the night I first made garlic butter mashed cauliflower. It wasn’t planned. The fridge was nearly empty—leftovers from a chaotic week of soccer practices, night shifts, and three teenagers on different dietary kicks. My youngest, Mateo, had declared he was “done with carbs” after watching some nutrition YouTuber. I rolled my eyes but respected the intent.

All I had was a lonely head of cauliflower, a few garlic cloves, and half a stick of butter. That kitchen alchemy? It turned into something soul-hugging.

And now? Garlic butter mashed cauliflower is on weekly repeat—partly because it’s velvety and savory, and partly because it reminds me that a little improvisation can lead to flavor magic.

What is Garlic Butter Mashed Cauliflower?

Garlic butter mashed cauliflower is a low-carb, creamy side dish that mimics the rich, pillowy texture of traditional mashed potatoes—but with a lighter nutritional profile. Made by steaming or boiling cauliflower florets until tender, then blending them with garlic, butter (or ghee), and seasonings, this dish is perfect for keto, paleo, and Whole30 diets.

It’s more than a side—it’s comfort food without compromise.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Mashed Cauliflower

• It’s deceptively creamy—you won’t believe it’s not potatoes.
• Garlicky and buttery—the combination is downright irresistible.
• Quick to make—ready in under 25 minutes.
• Great for batch prep—reheats like a dream.
• Lighter than mashed potatoes—less starch, more fiber.

Tools You’ll Need

• Steamer basket or large pot
• Food processor or immersion blender
• Skillet (for sautéing garlic)
• Strainer or cheesecloth (for draining excess moisture)
• Mixing bowl and spatula

Tips for Making the Best Garlic Butter Mashed Cauliflower

1. Steam, don’t boil (if you can) – This preserves nutrients and reduces water absorption.
2. Drain thoroughly – Watery mash? Not on our watch. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out excess water.
3. Don’t skip sautéing the garlic – Raw garlic is harsh; we want mellow and sweet.
4. Blend until smooth – A processor or immersion blender makes all the difference.
5. Season well – Cauliflower needs help. Salt, pepper, and even a pinch of nutmeg can lift it.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or ghee (non-dairy if needed)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1–2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese for extra creaminess
• Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

How to Make Garlic Butter Mashed Cauliflower

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Steam the cauliflower
   Place florets in a steamer basket over boiling water. Steam for 12–15 minutes until fork-tender.
2. Sauté the garlic
   In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring until fragrant but not browned.
3. Drain well
   Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a clean towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze to remove as much moisture as possible.
4. Blend the mash
   Add the drained cauliflower, sautéed garlic with butter, salt, and pepper to a food processor. Blend until smooth. Add a touch of yogurt or cream cheese if using.
5. Taste and adjust
   Season with more salt or pepper. Transfer to a bowl, garnish with herbs, and serve warm.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Garlic Butter Mashed Cauliflower

• Use roasted garlic for deeper flavor
  Just wrap a whole head in foil, roast at 400°F for 30–35 minutes, and squeeze out the cloves.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg
  It brings subtle warmth that plays beautifully with the butter.
• Try beef bacon bits or caramelized onions on top
  You won’t miss gravy. Trust me.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months in portions—reheat in a saucepan or microwave.
• Reheat gently and stir often. Add a splash of almond milk or broth if it thickens too much.

FAQs

How do you make mashed cauliflower with garlic?

Steam cauliflower until tender, sauté garlic in butter, and blend everything until smooth. Drain the cauliflower well to avoid watery mash.

Is garlic good with cauliflower?

Absolutely. Garlic transforms cauliflower’s mild flavor into something savory and crave-worthy.

Is mashed cauliflower healthier than mashed potatoes?

Yes—cauliflower is lower in calories, carbs, and glycemic impact. It also adds fiber and antioxidants.

How to keep mashed cauliflower from being watery?

Drain the steamed cauliflower thoroughly using a towel or cheesecloth. That step is essential!

Conclusion

Garlic butter mashed cauliflower isn’t just a side dish—it’s a story on a plate. For me, it represents resilience, surprise, and joy in the simplest moments. The night I made it out of “nothing” was the night I realized cauliflower has soul.

Whether you’re keto, dairy-free, or just want something new for your table, this dish delivers.

So go ahead, steam that cauliflower and make some magic.

Garlic Butter Mashed Cauliflower

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• Author: zoe
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Garlic butter mashed cauliflower is a low-carb, creamy side dish that mimics the rich, pillowy texture of mashed potatoes—but with a lighter nutritional profile. It’s more than a side—it’s comfort food without compromise.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or ghee (non-dairy if needed)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1–2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese
• Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Place florets in a steamer basket over boiling water. Steam for 12–15 minutes until fork-tender.
2. In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring until fragrant but not browned.
3. Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a clean towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze to remove as much moisture as possible.
4. Add the drained cauliflower, sautéed garlic with butter, salt, and pepper to a food processor. Blend until smooth. Add a touch of yogurt or cream cheese if using.
5. Season with more salt or pepper. Transfer to a bowl, garnish with herbs, and serve warm.

Notes

Try roasted garlic or a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth. Top with beef bacon bits or caramelized onions. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or almond milk if needed.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Steaming
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 110
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: cauliflower, keto, garlic, mashed, low-carb, side dish

Chef Zoe