Keto Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Mash
A creamy, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that’s ready in under 45 minutes.
Key Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories: 165 per serving
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 6g
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Equipment Needed
- Large baking sheet
- Food processor or blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- (Alternative: Potato masher can replace food processor for a rustic texture)
Ingredients
For the Mash:
- 1 large cauliflower head (900g/2lbs), cut into florets
- 1 whole head of garlic
- 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil
- 60g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 60ml (¼ cup) heavy cream
- 30g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan
- Crispy bacon bits

Method
-
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cut the top off the garlic head, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil.
- Toss cauliflower florets with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.

-
- Place wrapped garlic and cauliflower in oven, roast for 25-30 minutes until cauliflower is fork-tender and lightly browned.
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then transfer cauliflower to food processor.

-
- Squeeze roasted garlic cloves into processor (they should be soft and golden).
- Add Parmesan, cream, butter, and thyme.

- Process until smooth, scraping sides as needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
Crucial Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – cauliflower needs space to roast properly.
- For extra smoothness, add cream gradually while processing.
- If mixture seems dry, add warm cream 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Season generously – cauliflower needs more seasoning than potatoes.

Storage & Variations
Storage:
- Keeps in an airtight container for 3 days in the fridge.
Reheating:
- Microwave or stovetop with a splash of cream.
Scaling:
- Recipe doubles easily for larger groups.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcooked cauliflower becomes watery.
- Underroasted garlic will taste harsh.
- Not letting cauliflower cool slightly before processing can make it gummy.
Variations:
- Swap Parmesan for Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
- Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Mix in roasted shallots for depth.
- Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or sage.







