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Cozy Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes: Easy Low-Carb Recipe

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This creamy, rich cauliflower mash is a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, featuring sweet roasted garlic and a silky texture from cream cheese. It’s a comforting, soul-soothing side dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 pounds), cut into florets
  • 1 whole head of garlic
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup reserved cauliflower cooking water or milk (to adjust consistency)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, wrap tightly in aluminum foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes, until the cloves are soft and golden. Let it cool slightly.
  2. While the garlic roasts, prepare the cauliflower. Cut the cauliflower into even-sized florets. Rinse them well and drain. Fill a large pot with about 1 inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the florets in a steamer basket, cover, and steam for 8-10 minutes, until fork-tender.
  3. Drain the cauliflower thoroughly. Spread the cooked florets on a clean kitchen towel and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
  4. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into the bowl of a food processor. Add the softened cream cheese, butter, Parmesan (if using), salt, and pepper. Pulse a few times to combine.
  5. Add the drained cauliflower to the food processor. Process for 30-45 seconds, scraping down the sides halfway through, until smooth and creamy. If too thick, add reserved cooking water or milk 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a pinch of garlic powder if desired. Pulse once more to combine.
  7. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh chives or parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

For best texture, ensure cream cheese is at room temperature. Dry cauliflower thoroughly to avoid watery mash. Do not over-process to prevent gummy texture. Roasted garlic is key—do not substitute with raw garlic. Can be made ahead and reheated gently with a splash of milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower mashed potatoes, low-carb, keto, roasted garlic, healthy side dish, comfort food, vegetarian, gluten-free

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/cozy-roasted-garlic-cauliflower-mashed-potatoes-easy-low-carb-recipe/