A creamy and flavorful side dish is a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Made effortlessly in the Instant Pot®, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a comforting, healthy treat.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter, or more to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped, or more to taste
- 1 large head cauliflower, finely chopped
- ¼ cup vegetable broth
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Ingredient Image
Directions
Turn on your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Melt the butter and toss in the garlic, cooking it just until you can smell that lovely aroma, about 30 seconds. Add the cauliflower and give it a good stir so it’s coated in butter and begins to soften, which should take around 5 minutes. Pour in the broth, then close and lock the lid. Set the pot to high pressure and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it some time to come up to pressure first. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 3 minutes, then carefully switch to quick release to let out any remaining steam. Open the lid and mash the cauliflower right in the pot using a potato masher or an immersion blender. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but reduce the pressure cooking time to 3 minutes to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Is it possible to add more garlic for a stronger flavor?
Absolutely, feel free to increase the garlic to suit your taste preferences.
Can I prepare this without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can steam the cauliflower on the stove and then mash it with butter, garlic, broth, and cheese.
How should I store leftovers and how long do they last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
You can substitute with chicken broth or water if you prefer.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Use a plant-based butter and vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast instead of the cheese.
Will using an immersion blender make the texture too smooth?
Using an immersion blender will create a creamier texture; if you prefer chunkier mash, use a potato masher.
RS
By Rohit Sharma
Home Cook
Rohit shares simple and practical recipes that are easy to follow and perfect for everyday cooking.