Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Southern Living Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes in a bowl to serve, topped with butter and thyme leaves — Photo:
Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely

Active Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

45 mins

Servings:

Calling all cauliflower fans—this half-and-half cauliflower mashed potatoes recipe is the side dish you've been waiting for. Fluffier and more like mashed potatoes than just plain mashed cauliflower, they are a truly satisfying twist on classic mashed potatoes with a lot fewer carbs.

Yukon Gold potatoes pair with cauliflower florets for a creamy cauliflower mash made just as decadent as a full potato version. Garlic, salt, and pepper season the mixture, while butter and buttermilk are folded in for a rich and tangy flavor. To top it all off, fresh chives add an bright, oniony bite.

Even if you’re peeved by the thought of anything but potatoes sneaking into your mash, give this recipe a try—you won't be disappointed.

Why Add Cauliflower to Mashed Potatoes?

Let's face it—getting the recommended servings of vegetables every day can be a chore. When there's an opportunity to switch up a family favorite with a (somewhat sneaky) addition of healthy stuff, why not go for it?

With elements like butter and buttermilk in the mix, cauliflower can even be delicious when mashed all on its own. But when paired with high-starch potatoes, the mild flavor of cauliflower is hidden, the texture of the mash is beautifully thickened, and the carbs of this decadent classic are magically lessened in the process.

Ingredients for Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

We kept it simple with seasoning for a traditional mash, made healthier. To make these cauliflower mashed potatoes, you'll need:

Yukon Gold potatoes: A high-starch potato that's less absorbent than russets, with a buttery texture when mashed.
Fresh cauliflower florets: You probably won't even notice they're there, but using cauliflower is a great way to lighten the mashed potatoes without compromising flavor.
Garlic cloves: Enhances the flavor.
Kosher salt: Seasons the mixture.
Butter: Adds richness to the mashed potatoes. Can use salted or unsalted, just adjust your seasoning accordingly.
Whole buttermilk: For a tangy creaminess.
Fresh chives: Adds a fresh, oniony bite.
Black pepper: Tops the mashed potatoes for a hint of peppery spice.

How To Make Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

This dish comes together quickly, with minimal effort. A quick boil and mash with a few extra additions, and you're ready to serve in under 20 minutes of active time. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

Step 1. Bring 8 cups water, potatoes, cauliflower, garlic, and 2 tablespoons salt to a boil in a Dutch oven. Reduce heat; cover, and simmer until fork-tender, 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 2. Drain; return to Dutch oven. Cook until no liquid remains, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
Step 3. Add 1/4 cup butter and mash until combined. Fold in buttermilk and remaining salt. Top with remaining butter. Garnish with chives and pepper.

How To Make Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes Ahead

To make this mash ahead: Prepare, wrap, and refrigerate up to three days in advance. Cover and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout. Adjust the texture with an extra splash of buttermilk if needed before garnishing and serving as directed.

What To Serve With Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

These cauliflower mashed potatoes make a great side to a variety of cool weather dishes. Serve with beef, lamb, pork, roasted chicken, pan-seared fish, or just about any dish you'd pair with mashed potatoes. It also makes a great topping for shepherd's pie.

More Decadent Cauliflower Recipes You'll Love

If you're ready to add more cauliflower to your repertoire, don't stop here. Check out these comforting recipes the whole family will love:

Skillet Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Easy Cauliflower Casserole
Creamy Cauliflower Soup with Bacon
Cauliflower Wings
Sweet Potato, Cauliflower, and Greens Casserole
Easy Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.

Ingredients

2 lb. Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks (6 cups)
5 cups fresh cauliflower florets (from 1 head)
3 large garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
2 Tbsp., plus 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided
1/4 cup butter, cut into pieces, plus 1 1/2 tsp., divided
1/4 cup whole buttermilk
Chopped fresh chives
Black pepper

Directions

Boil potatoes and cauliflower:

Bring 8 cups water, potatoes, cauliflower, garlic, and 2 tablespoons of the salt to a boil in a Dutch oven over medium-high. Reduce heat to medium; cover, and simmer until fork-tender, 15 to 20 minutes.
Drain potatoes and cauliflower:

Drain; return to Dutch oven. Cook over medium until no liquid remains, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
Mash and season:

Gradually add 1/4 cup of the butter to Dutch oven; using a potato masher, mash until combined. Add buttermilk and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt; fold until combined. Top with remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons butter. Garnish with chives and pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cauliflower for cauliflower mashed potatoes?

To use frozen cauliflower, cook separately from the potatoes according to the package instructions. Then proceed with mashing with the potatoes as directed.
Can I make a loaded version of these cauliflower mashed potatoes?

For a loaded version of this mash, fold in shredded Cheddar cheese, scallions, and crumbled cooked bacon before serving.
Can I use a food processor instead of mashing the potatoes and cauliflower by hand?

Food processors can easily overwork potatoes or cauliflower, possibly resulting in a gummy texture. For this reason, we prefer mashing this mixture by hand.
How can I make mashed cauliflower less watery?

We drain and cook out any excess liquid in this recipe, but if you're looking for an extra-thick texture, consider boiling the potatoes and cauliflower separately. When the cauliflower are tender throughout, drain and squeeze in a kitchen towel to eliminate any excess moisture, mashing them slightly in the process. This will help achieve the thickest, creamiest texture.