Mashed Cauliflower

This cauliflower mash recipe is the perfect low-carb substitute to mashed potatoes. Whether you’re looking to get more veggies in, are going low-carb, or simply want to lighten up your Thanksgiving spread, this cauliflower-based dish is the way to go. One ingredient makes all the difference in turning riced cauliflower into the creamy, decadent side dish of your dreams. It’s the perfect, lighter alternative to the classic comfort food—here’s what you need to know:

How To Make Mashed Cauliflower

INGREDIENTS

• Cauliflower: I used two medium heads of cauliflower, but if you want to speed up the process, you can buy pre-riced cauliflower and boil the same way. This will help make the mash even smoother.
• Cream Cheese: The secret to making steamed cauliflower smooth and creamy? CREAM CHEESE! (We're big fans, if you hadn't noticed.) The cream cheese adds the perfect amount of richness that you might be missing from mashed potatoes.
• Milk: You can use whatever milk you have on hand, but for the richest, creamiest texture, go for whole milk.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

First, we need to cook the cauliflower down. Do this by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, then add the cauliflower florets. Cook until tender—this should only take around 10 minutes. Once tender, drain them well by pressing them with paper towels or with a clean dish towel. Try to remove as much excess water as possible—this isn’t a step to skip or rush. If you leave too much water, your mashed cauliflower will lean more watery than creamy.

Once your cauliflower is adequately dry, add it back to the pot and mash with a potato masher until you get a smooth consistency with no large chunks remaining. The texture is kind of up to you, and what texture you prefer your mashed “potatoes” to be.

Once you reach your desired smooth texture, stir in the star ingredient—cream cheese—and milk, along with salt and pepper. Continue to mash until the mixture is fully combined and creamy. If you’re still not reaching your desired texture, add a couple more tablespoons of milk, a bit at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Once your cauliflower has reached your desired consistency, garnish with chives, season with a bit more pepper (as desired), and top with a pat of butter (this is non-negotiable).

The full list of ingredients and instructions can be found in the recipe below.

What To Serve With Mashed Cauliflower

• Sheet-Pan Miso Chicken & Sweet Potatoes: This chicken dinner is begging for a creamy side like mashed cauliflower.
• Whole-Roasted Cabbage: Hosting a vegetarian Thanksgiving this year? This whole-roasted cabbage is centerpiece material served alongside this creamy mashed cauliflower.
• Prime Rib: This holiday classic is anything but light, so if you’re looking to lighten up your plate, then pair this cauliflower alongside your cut of prime rib.

Storage

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.