Name: Mashed Cauliflower Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cauliflower head; 4 oz cream cheese; ¼ cup parmesan cheese; ½ tsp garlic powder; Salt and ground black pepper; ¼ cup Cheddar Cheese

Healthy and comforting, this baked mashed cauliflower is a fantastic alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it an irresistible side dish that's loaded with flavor but less in calories.

Photos of Mashed Cauliflower Bake Recipe

Cauliflower is a common vegetable, however, if your pantry is not stocked with cream cheese or parmesan cheese, you might need to add these to your grocery list. The other ingredients like garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cheddar cheese are pantry staples in most kitchens.

Ingredients for Baked Mashed Cauliflower

Cauliflower: This is the star ingredient in this recipe. It's a versatile vegetable that's low in calories and high in vitamins.

Cream Cheese: It adds a creamy texture and rich taste to the mashed cauliflower.

Parmesan Cheese: Used for its strong, sharp flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Garlic Powder: This is included for its aromatic and slightly spicy flavor.

Salt and Ground Black Pepper: They are used to boost the flavor of the other ingredients.

Cheddar Cheese: This is sprinkled on top for its sharp and tangy flavor and its ability to melt beautifully.

One reader, Fern Johnsen says:

This baked mashed cauliflower recipe is a game-changer! The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it a delightful side dish. It's a healthier alternative to mashed potatoes and tastes just as amazing. I love how easy it is to make and how it's become a family favorite. Highly recommend trying it out!

Fern Johnsen

Techniques Required for Baked Mashed Cauliflower

How to steam cauliflower: Place a steamer insert into a saucepan and fill with water to just below the bottom of the steamer. Bring water to a boil. Add cauliflower, cover, and steam until tender for 5 to 10 minutes.

How to mash cauliflower: Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a bowl and mash it with cream cheese until smooth.

How to bake the mashed cauliflower: Spoon the mashed cauliflower mixture into a 1-quart casserole dish, top with cheddar cheese, and bake in the preheated oven until bubbling and the cheddar cheese is melted for 10 to 15 minutes.

How To Make Mashed Cauliflower Bake

Mashed cauliflower tossed with cheese then baked until bubbly makes a great side dish or main dish. You can also add more seasonings as desired.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cauliflower head,coarsely chopped
4ozcream cheese,softened
¼cupparmesan cheese,grated
½tspgarlic powder
salt and ground black pepper,to taste
¼cupCheddar cheese,shredded or as needed

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Place a steamer insert into a saucepan and fill with water to just below the bottom of the steamer. Bring water to a boil.
Add cauliflower, cover, and steam until tender for 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer cauliflower to a bowl.
Mash cauliflower with cream cheese until smooth. Stir in Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Spoon mixture into a 1-quart casserole dish. Top with Cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven until bubbling and Cheddar cheese is melted for 10 to 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 135.43kcal
Fat: 10.20g
Saturated Fat: 5.85g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.59g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.42g
Carbohydrates: 5.92g
Fiber: 1.91g
Sugar: 2.39g
Protein: 6.46g
Cholesterol: 30.61mg
Sodium: 281.02mg
Calcium: 150.57mg
Potassium: 311.85mg
Iron: 0.56mg
Vitamin A: 96.56µg
Vitamin C: 43.20mg

Technique Tip for Making Baked Mashed Cauliflower

When mashing the cauliflower with cream cheese, ensure that the cauliflower is well-drained and dry. Any excess water can result in a runny mixture, which will affect the final texture of your dish. For a smoother consistency, you can also use a food processor or blender to mash the cauliflower. Just be careful not to over-process it, as it can quickly turn into a puree.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Cauliflower Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and steam the cauliflower in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to make the dish. This will save time on the day you plan to bake the mashed cauliflower.

Use a food processor: Instead of mashing the cauliflower by hand, use a food processor to quickly achieve a smooth consistency for the dish.

Multi-task: While the cauliflower is steaming, prepare the other ingredients or start cleaning up to make the process more efficient.

Bake in bulk: Consider making a larger batch and freezing individual portions for quick and easy meals in the future.

One-pot cooking: Use a steamer insert that can also be used as a mixing bowl to minimize the number of dishes to clean up afterward.

Substitute Ingredients For Mashed Cauliflower Bake Recipe

cauliflower head - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli can be used as a substitute for cauliflower in this recipe, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to cream cheese, adding a tangy flavor and creamy texture to the dish.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan-friendly substitute for parmesan cheese, providing a cheesy and nutty flavor.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Using fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder can enhance the flavor and aroma of the dish.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese can be used as a milder alternative to cheddar, providing a gooey and melty texture when baked.

Best Way to Present Baked Mashed Cauliflower

Elevate the plating: When presenting the baked mashed cauliflower, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use edible flowers or microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Add a crunchy element to the dish by sprinkling toasted almond slivers or panko breadcrumbs on top of the baked mashed cauliflower. This will provide a delightful contrast in texture.
Utilize unique serving vessels: Instead of a traditional casserole dish, consider serving the baked mashed cauliflower in individual ramekins or small, stylish cast iron skillets to give it a modern and sophisticated touch.
Garnish with finesse: Finish the dish with a drizzle of high-quality truffle oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an added layer of flavor and a touch of luxury.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the arrangement of the dish on the plate, ensuring that each component is meticulously placed to create a visually stunning and harmonious presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Baked Mashed Cauliflower

Steamer insert: A steamer insert is a perforated metal or silicone basket that fits inside a saucepan and is used to steam vegetables, seafood, and other foods.
Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking vessel with a long handle and a lid, typically used for boiling, simmering, and making sauces.
Bowl: A bowl is a round, open-top container used for mixing, holding, and serving food. It comes in various materials such as glass, ceramic, or stainless steel.
Casserole dish: A casserole dish is a deep, oven-safe dish used for baking and serving casseroles, gratins, and other baked dishes.
Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food. It is essential for cooking a wide range of dishes.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Mashed Cauliflower

Let the baked mashed cauliflower cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled mashed cauliflower to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the mashed cauliflower:
- Divide the cooled dish into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Frozen mashed cauliflower will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months.
To reheat refrigerated mashed cauliflower, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a covered dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
To reheat frozen mashed cauliflower, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat it in the microwave or oven as described above. If you need to reheat it directly from frozen, increase the reheating time accordingly.
Note that the texture of the mashed cauliflower may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor should remain delicious.

How to Reheat Leftover Baked Mashed Cauliflower

The best way to reheat leftover baked mashed cauliflower is to place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. This method is quick and easy, and it will help to retain the creamy texture of the mashed cauliflower.
Another option is to reheat the baked mashed cauliflower in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the mashed cauliflower in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method will help to crisp up the top of the mashed cauliflower and give it a nice, golden-brown color.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover baked mashed cauliflower, try stirring in some grated parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of paprika before reheating. These additions will give the dish a fresh, new taste and make it feel like a whole new meal.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the baked mashed cauliflower in a skillet on the stovetop. Simply add a little bit of butter or olive oil to the skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the mashed cauliflower and stir it occasionally until it's heated through. This method is quick and easy, and it will give the mashed cauliflower a slightly crispy texture on the outside.

Random Fact About Baked Mashed Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. It is also low in calories and high in fiber, making it a healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.

Is This Cauliflower Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The baked mashed cauliflower recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Cauliflower is an affordable and nutritious vegetable, and the additional ingredients are also reasonably priced. The dish offers a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delightful taste.

Is This Cauliflower Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The baked mashed cauliflower recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, as cauliflower is a low-carb, nutrient-dense vegetable. It is rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation. However, the addition of cream cheese, parmesan cheese, and cheddar cheese increases the fat and calorie content of the dish, which may not be ideal for those watching their calorie intake or following a low-fat diet.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cream cheese or use a low-fat version to decrease the overall fat content
Opt for a stronger-flavored cheese, such as sharp cheddar, to use less while still achieving a satisfying taste
Add herbs and spices, such as fresh chives, thyme, or smoked paprika, to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive amounts of cheese
Incorporate other vegetables, like roasted garlic or sautéed spinach, to boost the nutritional value and add depth to the dish
Use a portion of the steaming liquid from the cauliflower to mash the mixture, reducing the need for additional fat-containing ingredients

Editor's Thoughts on This Baked Cauliflower Dish

This baked mashed cauliflower recipe is a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The combination of cream cheese, parmesan, and cheddar cheese adds a rich and creamy texture, while the garlic powder provides a savory depth of flavor. The dish is simple to prepare and makes for a satisfying side dish or a comforting main course. It's a versatile and delicious recipe that will surely impress your guests and elevate any meal.

Enhance Your Mashed Cauliflower Bake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Green Beans: Fresh green beans tossed in olive oil, roasted garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a flavorful side dish.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with honey and a hint of cinnamon for a sweet and savory accompaniment to the baked mashed cauliflower.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts roasted with balsamic vinegar and crispy bacon for a delicious and hearty side dish.

Cranberry Orange Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad with quinoa, cranberries, and oranges, tossed in a citrus vinaigrette for a light and tangy addition to the meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Baked Mashed Cauliflower

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This hearty salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: A sweet and savory glaze takes this salmon to the next level, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Indulge in a creamy and tropical dessert with this mango coconut chia pudding, a healthy and refreshing treat.

Butternut Squash Soup with Apple: Warm up with a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup, enhanced with the sweetness of apple for a delightful twist on a classic dish.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve With This Cauliflower Dish

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory and flavorful, these stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Creamy and indulgent, this spinach and artichoke dip is a classic appetizer that never fails to please. Served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread, it's the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This decadent dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a savory meal.

Berry Parfait: Layer fresh berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and light berry parfait. This colorful and fruity dessert is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

Why trust this Mashed Cauliflower Bake Recipe:

This recipe uses cauliflower as a healthy alternative to mashed potatoes, providing a lighter and lower-carb option. The addition of cream cheese and parmesan cheese adds a rich and creamy texture, while garlic powder enhances the flavor. The use of cheddar cheese on top creates a delicious golden crust. Trust this recipe for a flavorful and satisfying low-carb side dish that's perfect for any meal.

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FAQ:

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative such as vegan cream cheese or silken tofu. You can also use dairy-free parmesan and cheddar cheese alternatives to achieve a similar flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. After mashing the cauliflower and assembling the casserole, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake according to the recipe instructions.

What can I serve with this baked mashed cauliflower?

This baked mashed cauliflower pairs well with a variety of dishes. You can serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or as a delicious side to a hearty steak. It also complements vegetarian dishes such as stuffed bell peppers or grilled portobello mushrooms.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for future enjoyment. Store the leftover baked mashed cauliflower in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven until warmed through.

Is it possible to add other seasonings to the mashed cauliflower?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat. Get creative and tailor the seasonings to your liking.