How to Make the Perfect Keto Cauliflower Mash
American · Easy · 25 min · 4 servings

A creamy low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes made with cauliflower and rich butter. This dish delivers comfort food satisfaction without the carb overload.
Why this recipe works
This Keto Cauliflower Mash recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 25 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 180 calories with 5g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 8 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 head cauliflower cut into florets
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 oz cream cheese softened
- 0.25 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh chives chopped
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Boil the Cauliflower
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook until very tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. Do not undercook or the mash will be lumpy.
Step 2: Drain and Dry
Drain the cauliflower thoroughly in a colander. Return it to the hot pot and let it sit for 2 minutes over low heat to evaporate excess moisture. This step is critical for a thick mash.
Step 3: Blend with Fats
Transfer the cauliflower to a food processor. Add butter, cream cheese, heavy cream, and garlic. Process until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 4: Season and Adjust
Taste the mash and add salt and black pepper. Pulse a few more times to incorporate. Adjust cream or butter for desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer to a serving bowl and top with fresh chives and an optional pat of butter. Serve immediately while hot.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- heavy cream → full fat coconut cream for dairy free version
- cream cheese → mascarpone for a richer flavor
- butter → ghee for a lactose free option
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not draining cauliflower well enough which results in watery mash
- Undercooking the cauliflower which leads to a lumpy texture
- Over processing the mash which can make it gluey
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 180 calories, 5g protein, 7g carbs, 15g fat, 3g fiber.
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