Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower (Print version)

Tender cauliflower blended with sweet roasted garlic for a creamy, flavorful low-carb side dish.

# What you'll need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
02 - 1 whole head garlic

→ Dairy

03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
05 - 2 tablespoons milk (or more, as needed)

→ Seasonings

06 - 1 teaspoon salt
07 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)

# How to make it:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F.
02 - Slice the top off the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with a little olive oil, wrap in 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 well and let cool slightly.
04 - Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins into a food processor. Add the drained cauliflower, butter, cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper.
05 - Blend until very smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed. Adjust milk for desired consistency.
06 - Taste and season with more salt or pepper if needed.
07 - Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with chives if using, and serve hot.

# Expert suggestions:

01 -
  • The roasted garlic transforms humble cauliflower into something truly luxurious
  • Guests never guess this creamy side is low carb until you tell them
02 -
  • Letting the cauliflower drain well after boiling prevents watery mash
  • Room temperature ingredients blend together much more smoothly
03 -
  • Immersion blenders work but a food processor gives the silkiest results
  • A pinch of nutmeg adds subtle warmth without overpowering the dish