Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Roasted garlic mashed cauliflower is the ultimate low-carb comfort food that rivals traditional mashed potatoes in richness and flavor. Roasting the garlic first deepens its sweetness and mellows the sharpness, making this keto-friendly side irresistible. At just 100 calories and 7g net carbs per serving, this is the mashed potato swap that actually satisfies.

Ingredients

• 1 large head cauliflower (about 900g), cut into florets
• 1 whole head of garlic
• 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 3 tbsp cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 0.25 cup warm chicken or vegetable broth
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp white pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (garnish)
• Freshly cracked black pepper (garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes until the cloves are golden, soft, and caramelized.
2. While the garlic roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 10-12 minutes until very tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Drain the cauliflower thoroughly. Return to the pot over low heat and stir for 1-2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
5. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of the skins into a food processor or high-powered blender.
6. Add the drained cauliflower, cream cheese, butter, remaining 2 tbsp olive oil, broth, salt, and white pepper.
7. Process until completely smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning.
9. Transfer to a serving bowl, create a small well in the center, and fill with a little extra butter.
10. Garnish with fresh chives and cracked black pepper.

Tips & Variations

• Drying out the cauliflower after boiling is essential. Excess moisture makes the mash watery.
• For an even richer result, swap the broth for warmed heavy cream or sour cream.
• A food processor yields the smoothest result. Avoid using a standard blender as it can become gummy.
• Add a pinch of cayenne or horseradish for a peppery kick.
• Leftovers reheat well in a microwave with a splash of broth stirred in.

Nutrition Breakdown

Calories: 157 kcal

Protein: 3g

Fat: 13.3g

Carbs: 8.4g

Fiber: 2.2g

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