Description
This Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower recipe offers a creamy, flavorful low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Infused with aromatic garlic, herbs like thyme and rosemary, and finished with shredded Parmesan cheese, this dish makes a perfect side for any meal. The cauliflower is gently steamed in chicken broth, then blended to a smooth and luscious texture, delivering comfort food vibes without the heaviness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8-9 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 large head cauliflower, quartered
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: Add olive oil to a large pot and heat over medium-high. Once hot, add the smashed garlic cloves and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, releasing their aroma without browning them.
- Steam Cauliflower: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the quartered cauliflower along with dried thyme and rosemary. It’s okay if the cauliflower isn’t fully submerged; partially steaming it yields better texture. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 15-20 minutes until the cauliflower is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Blend to Mash: Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the cauliflower mixture until smooth. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a food processor or blender and pulse until creamy. You can also mash the cauliflower by hand for a chunkier texture.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese and season with salt to taste. Mix well and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; you can adjust the amount based on your garlic preference.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth to make the recipe vegetarian.
- If you want a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast instead.
- For extra creaminess, you can add a tablespoon of butter or cream cheese if desired.
- Serve hot as a side dish to pair well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
