Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
Cauliflower mashed potatoes are a quick and easy vegetable side dish that's just as perfect for weekday meals as it is for holiday dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 heads cauliflower about 4 pounds total
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese about 2.5 ounces by weight
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives optional
Instructions
- Cut the cauliflower heads down into florets, then steam or boil for about 8-10 minutes, until completely fork tender and soft.2 heads cauliflower
- Let the cauliflower drain and cool, then squeeze in a kitchen towel to remove the majority of the water in the cauliflower.
- For a chunkier cauliflower mash: Transfer the cauliflower to a bowl along with the cheese, sour cream, butter, salt, pepper, and chives. Mix by hand, using a potato masher as needed to break down the cauliflower.1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons butter, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- For a smooth cauliflower mash: Transfer the cauliflower, cheese, sour cream, butter, salt, and pepper to the bowl of a food processor. Puree for about 1 minute, until smooth. If desired, mix in the chives by hand or sprinkle on top for garnish.1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons butter, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, 2 tablespoons chopped chives
Notes
Cooking the cauliflower: You can also cook the florets in an Instant Pot by adding 1/2 cup of water to the bottom and placing the cauliflower florets on a steamer insert. Using high pressure, steam for 2 minutes.
Removing excess moisture: If you're in a hurry, I've had success with using tongs or rubber gloves to squeeze the excess moisture from the cauliflower while it's still hot — just don't use your bare hands!
Storing leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I do not recommend freezing mashed cauliflower.
Make-ahead: This dish can be made fully ahead of time. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition
Calories: 250kcal, Carbohydrates: 24g, Protein: 12g, Fat: 15g, Saturated Fat: 8g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 3g, Trans Fat: 0.2g, Cholesterol: 38mg, Sodium: 569mg, Potassium: 1392mg, Fiber: 9g, Sugar: 9g, Vitamin A: 472IU, Vitamin C: 220mg, Calcium: 218mg, Iron: 2mg