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Home » Recipes » Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes

Mashed Cauliflower and Potatoes

Published: Oct 27, 2024 by Debra Clark · 39 Comments

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Mashed Cauliflower and Potatoes - a tasty twist on an everyday side dish! This yummy alternative to traditional whipped potatoes updates the flavor. The cheese makes them extra savory, and the sour cream adds a great tang.

This is perfect alongside turkey or beef, and a great make-ahead side dish!

Mashed cauliflower and potatoes in a bowl with melted butter swirled into the hot potatoes. .
Creamy Cauliflower Potato Mashed topped with butter is the perfect side dish!
Jump to:
  • Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
  • Ingredients you’ll need
  • Step-by-step instructions
  • Essential tools for this recipe
  • FAQ's
  • Deb’s tips for the mash
  • More great side dishes
  • Mashed Potatoes with Cauliflower

Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes and turkey dinner go hand-in-hand! Can you imagine serving a big holiday meal without?

Nope, me either! It's just a necessity. I also can't imagine a holiday meal without candied sweet potatoes or green bean casserole, but you know me, I live for food! 😋

And of course you'll need gravy! Learn how to make gravy from scratch here!

Now I make this combination because I love the flavor. I prefer it over regular mashed potatoes. The sour cream gives it tang, and the cheese adds salty goodness. If you've never tried this before, now's the time to start!

Ingredients you’ll need

Please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for the exact measurements. 

  • cauliflower
  • russet potatoes 
  • sour cream
  • cream
  • Parmesan cheese
  • butter
  • salt and pepper

Jazz up your potatoes by adding different flavors, like roasted garlic, or infuse the cauliflower with rosemary when it's cooking.

Step-by-step instructions

This is an overview of the instructions. For complete directions, scroll down to the bottom.

  1. Cut the cauliflower into large florets.
  2. Peel and dice the potatoes.
  3. Combine cauliflower & potatoes in a large pot & cover with cold water - add a tablespoon of salt.
  4. Bring water to a boil, reduce to simmer. Cook until the potatoes & cauliflower are fork tender. Drain wel and return the potatoes and cauliflower to the pot that you cooked them.
  5. Melt the butter with the sour cream. Add the butter mixture to the potatoes with the shredded cheese. With a potato masher, potato ricer or a hand mixer, mash/mix until they are well combined. If the potatoes need some extra moisture, add more milk.
  6. Taste & adjust seasonings.

Essential tools for this recipe

The following are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.   

  • Using a potato ricer will ensure your potatoes are light and fluffy!
  • The handheld potato masher will keep texture in the vegetable.

FAQ's

Can cauliflower potatoes be made in advance?

Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes can also be made ahead, up to three days in advance! This means less stress all around!

Is mashed cauliflower good for you?

Cauliflower has a low Glycemic Index of 15. This means it has very little effect on blood sugar levels. So, basically this is a healthier version of the classic favorite!

Why are my mashed potatoes runny?

Either too much butter and cream or often times, when mixing potatoes and cauliflower to make a mash, the mixture separates because there is too much moisture. Be sure to drain them well.

How do you make mashed potatoes thicker?

Let's say the potatoes end up a little runny - can you fix that? Absolutely! Try adding a tablespoon of powdered milk or instant potato flakes will help absorb the excess liquid. Stir to combine and cook for a couple of minutes to incorporate the taste.

Is there any other way to thicken them?

What if you don't have those ingredients handy? Simple, just cook the mash over medium heat, stirring often. Cooking out the excess liquid will make the mash less runny.

Why add cauliflower to potatoes?

It offers a lower carb version for this delicious side dish.

Mashed cauliflower and potatoes in a bowl with a serving spoon.

Deb’s tips for the mash

Melting the butter, sour cream and milk seems like an extra step, but that is the secret to a perfect mash. If you put these ingredients in when they are "refrigerator cold" the mash will become pasty and sticky - not light and fluffy!

  • If you enjoy silky, creamy potatoes, use a potato ricer or a handheld mixer. This will ensure no lumps!
  • If you prefer texture in your taters, mash them with a handheld potato masher.
  • Using Russet potatoes will add extra starch. This will help thicken the mash and help keep it together. If the potatoes are too stiff or not creamy enough, add another tablespoon of milk or cream.
Mashed cauliflower and potatoes in a pretty green bowl, topped with melted butter.

More great side dishes

This cheesy hashbrown casserole is the best combination of flavors. It definitely deserves rotation in your menu planning!

  • Steamed Brussel Sprouts - this easy recipe is a must make for the holidays!
  • Pressure Cooker Baked Potatoes - fluffy and delicious every time.
  • Braised Swiss Chard - super savory and so good, this simple recipe is a great side dish.
  • Air Fryer Roasted Carrots - how easy is this recipe? And that drizzle of maple syrup makes them extra special!
  • Roasted Broccoli with Lemon with a super bright flavor and fresh taste.

I'd love to hear your thoughts! Please comment below and let me know what you liked best about the mashed cauliflower and potatoes recipe!

Cauliflower Mashed potatoes in casserole dish.
5 from 11 votes

Mashed Potatoes with Cauliflower

Silky smooth, creamy mashed potatoes with cauliflower is an updated version of an old classic!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe SaveSaved!
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Prep Time10 minutes mins
Cook Time20 minutes mins
Total Time30 minutes mins
Course: Vegetables and Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8 cups
Calories: 160kcal
Author: Deb Clark
Cost: $10

Ingredients

  • 1 head cauliflower
  • 6 cups Russet Potatoes peeled & cubed about 3 large potatoes
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2-3 tablespoons cream or milk optional
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Remove the core from the cauliflower and cut it into large florets.
  • Peel and dice the potatoes. They are more dense than cauliflower, cutting them into a dice smaller in size than the cauliflower will ensure both cook evenly and be done at the same time.
  • Combine cauliflower & potatoes in a large pot & cover with cold water - add a heaping tablespoon of salt.
  • Bring water to a boil, reduce to simmer until the potatoes & cauliflower are fork tender, 12-15 minutes. Drain really well in a colander and return the potatoes and cauliflower to the hot pot that you cooked them in set on the stove (burner off). Setting them back on the stove, onto the hot burner will steam the remaining water off the vegetables.
  • In a small pan, warm the sour cream and butter. Add it to the potatoes along with the shredded cheese. With a potato masher, potato ricer or a hand mixer, mash/mix until they are well combined. If the potatoes need some extra moisture, add the milk.
  • Taste & adjust seasonings. Because the cheese is salty, you may not need any additional salt, but I always add a pinch of pepper.

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    Nutrition

    Calories: 160kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 17mg | Sodium: 137mg | Potassium: 532mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 185IU | Vitamin C: 12.9mg | Calcium: 99mg | Iron: 1.1mg

    More Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes

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    651 shares

    About Debra Clark

    Hey I'm Deb Clark, and I'm the owner of Bowl Me Over! We live in the sleepy little town of Scappoose, Oregon. And I admit it... I love food! Join me in this foodie journey (even if you've never cooked before!) I will help you learn to be confident in the kitchen! Want to learn more? Let's stay connected, you can email me at debra@bowl-me-over.com and find me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

    Comments

      5 from 11 votes (5 ratings without comment)

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Helen says

      November 27, 2024 at 9:29 am

      Hello! Could you use frozen cauliflower for this? Any suggestions on how to do things differently?

      Reply
      • Debra Clark says

        November 27, 2024 at 9:40 am

        Hi Helen - though I've never used frozen cauliflower, I'm sure you could. HOWEVER, be sure to drain it really well. Blot it with a paper towel as well. You may need to adjust the amount of milk and butter in the recipe. Additionally I would use a potato ricer, rather than a masher to prepare the caulflower.

        Reply
        • Helen says

          November 28, 2024 at 11:22 am

          thanks!

          Reply
    2. Jo in MI says

      December 23, 2021 at 10:28 am

      5 stars
      Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        December 23, 2021 at 10:32 am

        Yes! It can be made up to two days ahead of time. Store in an airtight container so they don't dry out. Reheat them in the oven.Top with a couple teaspoons of cream and butter, place covered baking dish in oven at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. These are delicious - enjoy Jo!

        Reply
    3. Liza says

      November 12, 2017 at 10:14 pm

      5 stars
      Mmmm! I LOVE mashed potatoes! But what can be even better than the mashed potatoes? The lightened up mashed potatoes with cauliflower mixed in! What a genius idea! What a great recipe! 🙂

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        November 16, 2017 at 5:52 pm

        These are Dan's fave and the only way I make them now - so delicious! Thank you Liza - enjoy!!!

        Reply
    4. Sandi says

      November 12, 2017 at 6:49 pm

      5 stars
      I love this lower carb alternative for the holidays! My husband will love this idea. Thank you!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        November 16, 2017 at 6:05 pm

        Thank you Sandi these taters are so delicious, I hope you love them as much as we do, enjoy!!!

        Reply
    5. christine says

      October 26, 2015 at 5:25 am

      These look perfectly creamy and delicious!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 26, 2015 at 7:41 pm

        So yummy Christine, I hope you give them a try!

        Reply
    6. Healing Tomato says

      October 25, 2015 at 6:23 pm

      5 stars
      I love that you used cauliflower in this recipe. It gives it more flavor, nutrition and texture to the potatoes.

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 26, 2015 at 7:48 pm

        So true, nailed it!!

        Reply
    7. Julia says

      October 21, 2015 at 5:43 pm

      Such a great idea to do cauliflower mashed potatoes. I think we might just have to give these a try this year!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 22, 2015 at 10:29 am

        Awesome Julia - please let me know what you think!

        Reply
    8. Elena says

      October 21, 2015 at 5:23 pm

      Yum! It's amazing what some butter and seasoning can do to the good old cauliflower!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 22, 2015 at 10:29 am

        So agree cauliflower is kind of an unsung hero of veggies!

        Reply
    9. justine @ Full Belly SIsters says

      October 21, 2015 at 9:45 am

      I love mashed potatoes and I love mashed cauliflower—never mixed them together! Looks wonderful.

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 21, 2015 at 2:48 pm

        Great Justine - hope you give it a try. If you do, swing back & let me know what you think!

        Reply
    10. Kacey @ The Cookie Writer says

      October 21, 2015 at 5:11 am

      Woohoo! I actually have a head of cauliflower I have to use up! Might not be today, but hopefully tomorrow I can get around to this!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 21, 2015 at 2:48 pm

        Score!!! 😀

        Reply
    11. Christie says

      October 21, 2015 at 5:08 am

      I haven't made cauliflower mashed potatoes in a long time. Love your addition of sour cream. They will be so creamy and delish.

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 21, 2015 at 2:49 pm

        Thanks Christie - enjoy!

        Reply
    12. Lauren @ Wicked Spatula says

      October 21, 2015 at 4:48 am

      I love that you combined the cauliflower and the potatoes. I usually just do one or the other!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 21, 2015 at 2:49 pm

        I prefer doing them that way as the mash doesn't separate. It tastes great!

        Reply
    13. Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine says

      October 21, 2015 at 4:41 am

      I Love making cauli mashes! Nothing cauliflower can't do (or make better)!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 21, 2015 at 2:54 pm

        Totally agree Rebecca!

        Reply
    14. Marlynn @ UrbanBlissLife says

      October 21, 2015 at 1:01 am

      LOVE cauliflower mash, and never thought to do a mix of each! This looks like an incredibly tasty version.

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 21, 2015 at 2:49 pm

        Thanks Marylynn!

        Reply
    15. Joanne/WineLady Cooks says

      October 20, 2015 at 1:32 pm

      5 stars
      We love this, although I gradually started leaving out the potatoes. The sour cream and cheese gives it pizazz!!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 21, 2015 at 2:51 pm

        Yes it does - love that "twang" you get from sour cream.

        Reply
    16. linda spiker says

      October 20, 2015 at 1:05 pm

      5 stars
      Yum! These are a staple at our house!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 21, 2015 at 2:51 pm

        Awesome!!

        Reply
    17. The Food Hunter says

      October 20, 2015 at 12:08 pm

      I've got to try this!!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 21, 2015 at 2:52 pm

        Awesome, let me know what you think Theresa!

        Reply
    18. Patty Haxton Anderson says

      October 20, 2015 at 11:50 am

      You've taken the cauliflower and potato mash to a whole new level! Love this.

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 21, 2015 at 2:52 pm

        Thanks Patty!

        Reply
    19. NANCY hUNTER says

      October 18, 2015 at 10:38 am

      Sounds so good! Have always thought of making these, so thanks, Debra, for the recipe.

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        October 19, 2015 at 6:08 pm

        You'll love them Nancy - and thank you so much for taking a moment to comment on the blog!! Good to hear from you!!

        Reply
    Blogger Deb Clark smiling at camera holding a plate filled with a casserole.
    Welcome to Bowl Me Over!

    Hey I'm Deb Clark! I'm the owner of Bowl Me Over. We live in a sleepy little town just north of Portland in the beautiful Pacific Northwest... (read more)

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