This creamy roasted garlic mashed cauliflower recipe is so rich and satisfying, you won’t even miss the potatoes. If you’re following a keto lifestyle, watching your carbs, or simply want to sneak more veggies into your meals, this easy mashed cauliflower is a game changer.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Let’s face it—when we think of comfort food, mashed potatoes top the list. They’re creamy, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying. But for those of us trying to cut back on carbs or calories, traditional mashed potatoes can feel like a guilty pleasure. That’s where mashed cauliflower steps in.

This version isn’t your average boiled cauliflower mash. Roasting the cauliflower and garlic takes this dish to a whole new level. It adds a deep, nutty flavor that boiling just can’t match, and the texture is silky smooth.

Here’s why this recipe will win you over:

Low carb & keto-friendly – Perfect for those watching their carb intake.
Loaded with flavor – Thanks to oven-roasted garlic and cauliflower.
Easy to make – Just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients.
Perfect side dish – Goes with everything from steak to chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious garlic mashed cauliflower, you’ll only need a handful of basic ingredients. You might already have most of them on hand!

Cauliflower – One large head, cut into florets.
Garlic – A whole head, roasted to mellow and sweeten the flavor.
Butter – Adds that creamy, rich texture.
Milk or Cream – Dairy or non-dairy options work, depending on your diet.
Salt – Enhances the natural flavors.
Optional: Parmesan cheese, chives, or sour cream – For extra flavor and creaminess.

How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

This recipe is super simple, but it does require a bit of patience to bring out all those delicious roasted flavors.

Step 1: Roast the Garlic and Cauliflower

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Cut off the top of a whole garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Drizzle with a little olive oil and wrap in foil. Place it on a baking sheet with your cauliflower florets. Drizzle the cauliflower with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Roast for about 35-40 minutes, flipping the cauliflower halfway through, until everything is golden and tender. Roasting brings out the sweetness in the garlic and gives the cauliflower a rich, slightly nutty taste.

Step 2: Blend Until Smooth

Once roasted, squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins—this part smells amazing!

Add the warm cauliflower, roasted garlic, butter, and milk or cream to a food processor or high-speed blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides a few times to make sure everything gets incorporated.

You can also use a hand blender or a potato masher if you prefer a chunkier texture.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

This is where the magic happens. Taste your mashed cauliflower and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, a touch more butter, or a splash of cream until it reaches your preferred flavor and texture.

Want to level it up? Try stirring in a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or topping it with fresh chives.

Tips for Perfect Mashed Cauliflower Every Time

Here are a few tried-and-true tricks to make the best mashed cauliflower ever:

Roast, don’t boil – It keeps out extra moisture, so your mash isn’t watery.
Use a food processor – For silky smooth texture, a food processor is your best bet.
Drain if needed – If you boil or steam your cauliflower instead of roasting, make sure to remove excess water using a clean kitchen towel.
Add flavor boosters – Think cheese, herbs, or even a touch of sour cream.

What to Serve With Mashed Cauliflower

This creamy mashed cauliflower goes with just about anything you’d pair with mashed potatoes. Here are some ideas:

Grilled ribeye or roast chicken for a hearty dinner.
Seared salmon or lemony baked cod for something lighter.
Meatballs and gravy for pure comfort food heaven.

You can even enjoy it on its own with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s comforting, creamy, and surprisingly filling.

Why Cauliflower Is a Great Potato Alternative

Ever wonder why cauliflower is so popular in low-carb cooking? It’s because it’s versatile, nutritious, and incredibly mild in flavor, making it easy to pair with all sorts of seasonings.

Compared to potatoes, cauliflower is:

Lower in carbs and calories
High in fiber
Rich in vitamins C and K
Gluten-free and keto-friendly

The best part? When blended, it mimics the creamy texture of mashed potatoes almost perfectly—especially when roasted first.

Make It Your Own

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Don’t be afraid to play with the flavors to suit your taste buds. Here’s a few twist ideas:

Cheesy Garlic Mash: Stir in shredded cheddar or gouda for extra richness.
Herbed Cauliflower Mash: Add in rosemary, thyme, or basil.
Spicy Twist: Blend in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Final Thoughts: A Healthy Comfort Classic

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a big scoop of smooth, buttery mashed cauliflower. It hits all the right notes of comfort food, but without the carb crash. Plus, it’s a simple way to sneak in more veggies—great for kids and picky eaters alike.

Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, cutting carbs for your health, or just want a new twist on a classic side, this roasted garlic mashed cauliflower is a recipe everyone should try at least once.

So what are you waiting for? Fire up your oven and get roasting. Once you taste how creamy and flavorful this cauliflower mash is, it just might become your new go-to side dish.

Have you tried mashed cauliflower before? What’s your favorite add-in? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy cooking!