The Best Clean Keto Cauliflower Mash

This is hands down the best Clean Keto Cauliflower Mash recipe I have ever made! If you love mashed potatoes and looking for a substitute recipe that is keto-friendly, you’ve found it!

I know what you’re thinking. How do you know it’s the best Mashed Cauliflower recipe?

Well, let me tell you, after three years of following the Ketogenic diet on and off I’ve tried almost every recipe for Cauliflower Mash. 

Most of them tasted very bland to me, and I could taste the bitterness of the cauliflower. If I’m going to use Cauliflower as a substitute for mashed potatoes, I want it to feel like I’m eating mashed potatoes.

After years of trial- and- error I finally came up with the perfect Mashed Cauliflower Recipe. This is a great recipe to use for entertaining as well. Your guests won’t even know they aren’t eating potatoes because these are so light and fluffy.

So, what makes this worthy to be the best?

For starters, the way you cook the cauliflower. Boiling allows for the best control of consistency, less water retention, and a neutral taste.

As an example, if you boil the cauliflower, you will have a lot of extra water. If you roast it, it will leave a roasted vegetable taste in the cauliflower which will interfere with the rest of the flavors in the recipe

Feel free to add in some garlic if you would like, but be careful to not overdo it.

For this recipe, I used two heads of cauliflower, which equates to 1 medium clove of garlic.

Another critical factor is the amount of butter you use. Don’t be scared of using a lot of butter. Get to love butter, especially if you are following a Keto/ Low Carb diet.

How else do you think your mom and grandma made those to-die-for mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving and Christmas? They were not afraid to use butter! Get over your butter phobia as soon as possible. 

Last but not least is the amount of salt you use. Salt brings out the flavor in foods. I would recommend starting with one tsp for each cauliflower head you use and then working your way up by adding 1/2 tsp at a time.

You want these to be buttery and salty. Also, salt is an essential electrolyte that you need to make sure you get enough of if you are cutting carbs in your diet.

Ok, so now that I have told you all of my secrets, here is a step-by-step of how I make the Best Mashed Cauliflower Recipe. 

Mashed Cauliflower vs Mashed Potatoes: Which is Healthier?

Mashed potatoes and mashed cauliflower are both staple side dishes, but when it comes to health benefits, mashed cauliflower comes out on top.

While both options can be prepared in a variety of ways, mashed cauliflower has fewer calories, carbohydrates, and less fat than mashed potatoes.

One of the key differences between mashed potatoes and mashed cauliflower is the calorie count.

A 100-gram serving of mashed potatoes contains approximately 130 calories, while a 100-gram serving of mashed cauliflower contains only 25 calories.

This means that you can eat more mashed cauliflower for the same number of calories, which can be helpful for weight management.

Another difference is the carbohydrate content.

Mashed potatoes are a significant source of carbohydrates, with a 100-gram serving containing approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

On the other hand, mashed cauliflower contains only 5 grams of carbohydrates per 100-gram serving, making it a better option for those who need to manage their carbohydrate intake.

Fat content is also an important factor to consider when comparing the two options.

Mashed potatoes are often prepared with butter, cream, or milk, which adds extra fat to the dish.

In contrast, mashed cauliflower is typically prepared with healthier ingredients like chicken broth, garlic, and lemon juice, which do not add any extra fat.

Additionally, cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable that is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, folate, and potassium.

These nutrients can help to support a healthy immune system, promote heart health, and regulate blood pressure.

While both mashed potatoes and mashed cauliflower can be delicious and satisfying, mashed cauliflower is a healthier option due to its lower calorie count, carbohydrate content, and fat content.

By incorporating mashed cauliflower into your diet, you can enjoy a delicious side dish while also reaping the health benefits of this nutritious vegetable.

Can You Eat Cauliflower on Keto?

Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that is popular among those following a ketogenic diet.

The reason for this is that cauliflower is low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, making it a great choice for those looking to limit their carb intake.

Why Cauliflower is Keto-Friendly

Cauliflower is a great food for those following a ketogenic diet because it is low in carbohydrates and high in fiber.

One cup of cooked cauliflower contains just 5 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of fiber, making it a great choice for those looking to limit their carb intake.

Cauliflower is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Additionally, it’s a great source of protein, with 2 grams in a single cup of cooked cauliflower.

Ways to Enjoy Cauliflower on Keto

There are many different ways to enjoy cauliflower on a ketogenic diet. Here are some popular options:

• Mashed cauliflower: Mashed cauliflower is a great alternative to mashed potatoes and can be made with just a few simple ingredients. To make it, simply boil or steam the cauliflower until it’s tender, then mash it with butter, cream, and seasonings.
• Cauliflower rice: Cauliflower rice is another popular way to enjoy cauliflower on a ketogenic diet. To make it, simply pulse raw cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice. Then, sauté the “rice” with butter, garlic, and other seasonings for a tasty and low-carb side dish.
• Cauliflower crust pizza: Cauliflower crust pizza is a popular keto-friendly pizza option. To make the crust, simply pulse raw cauliflower in a food processor until it’s finely chopped, then mix it with eggs, cheese, and other seasonings. Bake the mixture until it’s golden and crispy, then top it with your favorite pizza toppings.
• Cauliflower soup: Cauliflower soup is a comforting and keto-friendly option that can be made in many different ways. Simply sauté chopped cauliflower with butter, garlic, and other seasonings, then add chicken or vegetable stock and blend until smooth.

Cauliflower as a Substitute for Potatoes on the Keto Diet

The ketogenic diet, or keto for short, is a low-carb, high-fat diet that has become increasingly popular in recent years.

One of the biggest challenges people face when following this diet is finding suitable substitutes for their favorite high-carb foods.

One food that many keto dieters miss is potatoes. Fortunately, there is a simple solution: cauliflower.

Cauliflower is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be used as a substitute for potatoes in a variety of recipes.

Not only does it have a similar texture and flavor to potatoes, but it is also much lower in carbs, making it an ideal ingredient for those following a ketogenic diet.

One of the most common ways to use cauliflower as a potato substitute is in mashed dishes.

Simply boil or steam the cauliflower until tender, then blend it with butter, cream, and seasonings until it has a smooth, creamy texture.

This can be used as a side dish or as a topping for casseroles, meatloaf, and other dishes.

Another great way to use cauliflower as a potato substitute is in recipes for potato salad, french fries, and hash browns.

Simply cut the cauliflower into small pieces, then roast or sauté until crispy.

The result is a tasty and satisfying dish that is much lower in carbs than traditional potato versions.

Cauliflower is also a great substitute for potatoes in soups and stews.

Simply chop the cauliflower into small pieces, then add it to the pot along with other ingredients. The cauliflower will break down as the soup or stew simmers, creating a creamy and delicious base for the dish.

Finally, cauliflower can also be used as a substitute for potatoes in casseroles.

Simply chop the cauliflower into small pieces, then layer it in the casserole dish along with other ingredients such as cheese, meat, and vegetables.

The result is a delicious and filling dish that is much lower in carbs than a traditional potato casserole.

Cauliflower is an excellent substitute for potatoes on the ketogenic diet.

It has a similar texture and flavor to potatoes, but is much lower in carbs, making it a great ingredient for those who are following a low-carb, high-fat diet.

Whether you’re making mashed dishes, fries, hash browns, soups, stews, or casseroles, cauliflower is the perfect ingredient to use as a potato substitute.

How Many Carbs Are In this Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Cauliflower mash is a popular dish among those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, as it provides a delicious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.

One of the key benefits of this dish is that it is much lower in carbs than potatoes, making it an ideal ingredient for those who are watching their carb intake.

So, how many carbs are in mashed cauliflower?

The answer to this question depends on the recipe, as the carb count can vary based on the ingredients used.

However, on average, a 1-cup serving of cauliflower mash contains approximately 5 grams of total carbohydrates.

This is significantly lower than the 26 grams of carbs found in a 1-cup serving of traditional mashed potatoes.

It is important to note that while cauliflower mash is lower in carbs than potatoes, it is not a low-carb food in and of itself.

Some recipes for cauliflower mash may contain ingredients such as cream or cheese, which can add additional carbohydrates to the dish.

However, by using low-carb ingredients and limiting the amount of added sugars, it is possible to keep the carb count in cauliflower mash to a minimum.

By using low-carb ingredients and limiting added sugars, you can make this delicious dish an even more attractive option for those who are watching their carb intake.

How do you make cauliflower mashed potatoes not runny?

To make cauliflower mash not runny, it’s important to use the right cooking techniques and ingredients. Here are some tips to help you make a creamy and delicious cauliflower mash that is not runny:

1. Drain the Cauliflower: Make sure to drain the cauliflower thoroughly after boiling or steaming it. You can use a colander or cheesecloth to do this, and press down firmly to remove as much liquid as possible.
2. Use the Right Tools: To get a smooth and creamy texture, use a food processor, blender, or immersion blender to puree the cauliflower. Avoid using a potato masher, as this will result in a chunkier and less smooth consistency.
3. Add Fat: Fat helps to bind the ingredients together and gives the cauliflower mash a creamy texture. You can add butter, cream, sour cream, or cream cheese to the pureed cauliflower to achieve the desired consistency.
4. Use Less Liquid: Start with a small amount of liquid and gradually add more if needed. Too much liquid can make the cauliflower mash runny, so be careful not to add too much at once.
5. Thicken with Cheese: Adding cheese to the pureed cauliflower can help thicken it and give it a creamier texture. Parmesan, cheddar and other hard cheeses are particularly effective for this.
6. Chill the Mash: If your cauliflower mash is still runny, place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour to allow it to thicken up. This is especially effective if you have added cheese to the mix.

By following these tips, you can make a creamy and delicious cauliflower mash that is not runny. With a little bit of experimentation, you’ll be able to find the right mashed cauliflower recipe that works for you.

What can you use to thicken mashed cauliflower that is still keto-friendly?

To thicken mashed cauliflower in a keto-friendly way, you can use ingredients such as cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, coconut cream, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt.

• Cream cheese: Soften cream cheese and mix it into the mashed cauliflower until it is well combined and has reached the desired consistency.
• Sour cream or heavy cream: Mix in a small amount of sour cream or heavy cream to the mashed cauliflower to make it creamier and thicker.
• Coconut cream or coconut milk: These can be used to add richness and thickness to the mashed cauliflower, just be mindful of the coconut flavor they add.
• Greek yogurt: Mix in a small amount of plain, full-fat Greek yogurt to the mashed cauliflower to add creaminess and thickness.
• Nut butter: Mix in a small amount of almond or peanut butter to add richness and thickness to the mashed cauliflower.
• Stock: Mix in a small amount of chicken or vegetable stock to add moisture and thickness to the mashed cauliflower.
• Xanthan gum or glucomannan powder: These keto-friendly thickeners can be added in small quantities to the mashed cauliflower to thicken it up. Simply mix the powder into the cauliflower until well combined.

Note: It’s important to adjust the thickness of the mashed cauliflower gradually and in small increments, as over-thickening can make it pasty.

How to prevent your creamy mashed cauliflower from tasting bland

1. Season well: Make sure to add enough salt and pepper to your mashed cauliflower to bring out the flavors. You can also try using other spices and herbs, such as garlic, rosemary, thyme, or nutmeg, to add more depth to the dish.
2. Add fat: Fat helps to enhance the flavor and richness of the dish. Try adding butter, cream, or non-dairy milk to make it creamy mashed cauliflower.
3. Use roasted cauliflower: Roasting the cauliflower before mashing it can bring out its natural sweetness and nuttiness, making the dish more flavorful. Simply toss the cauliflower florets with oil, salt, and pepper and roast in the oven until tender and golden brown.
4. Add cheese: Grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, can add a savory, salty flavor to the dish. Sprinkle it over the mash or stir it in before serving.
5. Try different textures: To make the dish more interesting, try adding some texture by mixing in chopped nuts, pork rinds, or crispy bacon bits.

By using these tips, you can make sure your mashed cauliflower is flavorful and satisfying.

Experiment with different seasonings, ingredients, and cooking methods to find the combination that works best for you.

How to Make this Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add in the entire cauliflower head and boil like you would boil potatoes, until fork tender

Add florets to a food processor with butter and some heavy cream if you aren’t doing clean keto.

Process the cauliflower halfway and slowly start adding in more florets. 

Add half of the butter after you have processed the first head of cauliflower.

Repeat with the second head of cauliflower.

Add in the rest of the butter, heavy cream, and salt.

Adjust salt and season with fresh pepper.

Note: You may need to work in batches if your food processor isn’t big enough to hold all of the cauliflower at once. You can place the first batch of cauliflower puree in a bowl and later mix it in with the rest of the mash with the garlic and rosemary

Also, if you don’t have a food processor, you can use a blender or a hand masher. Be careful not to over-blend. You don’t want to end up with cauliflower soup.

If you are using a hand masher, you may need to steam the cauliflower for a bit longer. Adjust accordingly.

These are best when served fresh. The herbs are optional; you can add thyme or omit the fresh herbs altogether. 

Did you make this Mashed Cauliflower Recipe? How did it go?

Looking for other ways to eat cauliflower? Check out my Clean Keto Cauliflower “Potato” Salad and Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower. These are great keto side dishes for parties.

If you’re also looking for a healthier alternative to rice, check out my Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice. You can also check my Clean Keto Lunch Recipes.

Want to see the rest of my Keto Christmas Recipes? You can find them HERE. You can also check my Keto Christmas Dinner Party Menu.

More articles about Keto Diet and recipes:

• What is Clean Keto Carb Cycling?