What’s Inside: Potatoes are great, but you know what could be as good or even better? Cauliflower. This easy mashed cauliflower recipe is dairy-free, vegan, low carb, keto-friendly, and an AIP-approved mashed potato alternative. Can be made with fresh or frozen cauliflower too!
Now, I hold no grudges against mashed potatoes. But with all the stretchy pants, sweet tooth indulgences, and excess eating many of us are guilty of during the holidays, the less blood sugar spikes, the better.
Just keeping it real, folks. When there’s an entire Thanksgiving or Holiday meal ahead of me, and I don’t feel like wasting my allotted sugar or stomach space on heavy, dairy-laden mashed potatoes.
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Not only is this creamy mashed cauliflower recipe EASIER and FASTER to make as their spud sisters, but they’re EQUALLY DELICIOUS. Yes, I said it. While they’re not as fluffy as potatoes due to the lack of starch, they are still super comforting and are the perfect pillow for gravy (which is really all you need out of a good mash anyway).
Where traditional mashed potatoes can get weighed down with butter, sour cream, and cheese, the beauty of this vegan mashed cauliflower is that it is simple and delicious.
You definitely have to be a fan of cauliflower to enjoy this easy side dish. (If you’re not, we may not be able to be friends … ) The light, nutty flavor of the cauliflower really shines through in this recipe, and it’s enhanced with the salt, pep, and fresh chives. Sautéed or roasted garlic would also be divine here. Get creative!
You can use fresh or frozen cauliflower in this recipe, there’s no difference nutritionally (and sometimes the frozen version can be even fresher), so go with whatever is most attainable and convenient for you. While using cauliflower florets are preferred, you can also use cauliflower rice (just add more, of course).
Everyone loves a good side, am I right? Don’t miss my roundup of 20+ Gluten-free Side Dishes (Perfect for every occasion) including Paleo and AIP-friendly recipes right here.
This mashed cauliflower pairs perfectly with all the fixings for a full-blown Thanksgiving dinner, like roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, green veggies, and gravy (check out this match made in heaven below!). And trust me, your friends and family will appreciate that this side dish leaves plenty of room in their bellies for the rest of your holiday spread!
You can find my recipe for mashed cauliflower below! And make sure to check out my roundup of healthy Thanksgiving basics to ensure you stay on track this holiday season and impress your guests with a delicious, clean, homemade meal.
If you like this healthy homemade mashed cauliflower, make sure to save these healthy side dishes and Thanksgiving recipes when planning to host your own holiday feast:
Enjoy!
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13 comments
Hi there, I would love to make this but I’m curious about the nutrition information. Do you have that? Thanks!
You can plug that into something like myfitnesspal to confirm, I don’t normally post it.
Love the idea of making mashed cauliflowers instead of the usual mashed potatoes. I like trying different recipes for my guests to try and will definitely make this soon.
This cauliflower mash is delicious! The chives added a nice flavor, and it was so creamy.
Mmmm yes, so happy you enjoyed it.
I love this recipe, perfect for thanksgiving! Saving to make again
Wonderful! You’ll love!
Always knew about potato mash but cauliflower mash is new and amazing idea.
I love this healthier version of a side dish classic!
I make this ALL THE TIME! It’s one of our favorites with steaks and chops — makes me feel like I’m having mashed potatoes but so much healthier and without feeling guilty.
Amen! and honestly, it’s way quicker with less mess so why not!
Love this alternative to mashed potatoes. We do love cauliflower, and I know this would go over well at the dinner table.
Awesome, I agree! It’s a crowd-pleaser.