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Home » Recipes » Vegetables and Side Dishes

Mashed Potatoes and Cauliflower Recipe

Published: Nov 19, 2022 · Modified: Mar 7, 2023 by Bowl Me Over · 36 Comments

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

Perfect alongside turkey or beef, this is an easy side to make in advance.

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

Mashed Potato and cauliflower recipe in casserole dish.
Creamy Cauliflower Potato Mashed topped with butter is the perfect side dish!
Jump to:
  • Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
  • Ingredients
  • Instructions
  • Equipment
  • FAQ's
  • Main dish suggestions
  • Things to know
  • Mashed Potatoes with Cauliflower
  • Recipe backstory

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 I do live for food! 😋

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

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Remove the core from the cauliflower and cut it into large florets.
  2. 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.
  3. Combine cauliflower & potatoes in a large pot & cover with cold water - add a heaping tablespoon of salt.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Taste & adjust seasonings. Because the cheese is salty, you may not need any additional salt, but I always add a pinch of pepper.

Equipment

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.
Casserole dish filled with mashed potatoes with serving spoon.
Buttery and creamy these are now a staple on our table!

FAQ's

Why add cauliflower to potatoes?

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

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!

What is the secret is to making light and fluffy Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes?

Slightly warm the butter, sour cream and milk and whisk it together - THEN add to the vegetables! If you put these ingredients in when they are "refrigerator cold" the mash will become pasty and sticky - not light and fluffy!

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 potatoes over medium heat, stirring often. Cooking out the excess liquid will make the mash less runny.

What can I serve instead of mashed potatoes?

  • Mashed parsnips, sweet buttered rutabagas or turnips
  • Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe
  • Ham and Potato Casserole - perfect if you have some leftover ham.
  • Make-ahead Sweet Potato Casserole - creamy, sweet with a crunchy topping, these are unbelievable!
  • Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes - these are just the best!
  • Colcannon Potatoes Recipe
  • Old Fashioned Squash Casserole

All delicious alternatives!

Mashed potatoes topped with butter.

Main dish suggestions

All things delicious, right? Here are some ideas, a great steak of course - more of my favorites are:

  • Instant Pot Barbecue Pork Ribs - tasty, tangy, tender ribs every time or if you'd prefer to make ribs on the grill, use this recipe!!
  • 500 Degree Turkey Recipe, of course!
  • Prime Rib Dinner Recipe - this melt in your mouth, bone in prime rib dinner is one fine meal!
Side dish served in pretty green casserole topped with melted butter.

Things to know

  • Do you want to know the secret to making light and fluffy Mashed Potatoes and Cauliflower? 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. (affiliate links below)
  • 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, just add another tablespoon of milk or cream.
  • Jazz up your potatoes by adding some different flavors to this like roasted garlic or infuse the cauliflower with rosemary when it's cooking.

More of my favorite 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.
  • Instant Pot Steamed Carrots - how easy is this recipe? Top these with a drizzle of honey to make them extra special!
  • Roasted Broccoli with Lemon with a super bright flavor and fresh taste.
Cauliflower Mashed potatoes in casserole dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
5 from 10 votes

Mashed Potatoes with Cauliflower

Silky smooth, creamy mashed potatoes with cauliflower is an updated version of an old classic!
Prevent your screen from going dark
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
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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

I earn a commission from Instacart from qualifying purchases.

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.

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
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Recipe backstory

When my Dad was diagnosed with diabetes I wanted him to be able to enjoy some of his favorites with less guilt and that's where the Mashed Potatoes with Cauliflower recipe came from!

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About Bowl Me Over

Welcome to Bowl Me Over! My name is Debra and I send warm greetings from sunny California. I am a serious foodie – I’ve been known as the go-to girl in our family for years, catering weddings and anniversary parties. In the summer I help cook mountains of food for our family reunions. Often times things I create end up in a bowl, hence the name Bowl Me Over! Let's stay connected, you can email me at [email protected] and find me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jo in MI

    December 23, 2021 at 10:28 am

    5 stars
    Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      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
  2. Liza

    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

      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
  3. Sandi

    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

      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
  4. christine

    October 26, 2015 at 5:25 am

    These look perfectly creamy and delicious!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      October 26, 2015 at 7:41 pm

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

      Reply
  5. Healing Tomato

    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

      October 26, 2015 at 7:48 pm

      So true, nailed it!!

      Reply
  6. Julia

    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

      October 22, 2015 at 10:29 am

      Awesome Julia - please let me know what you think!

      Reply
  7. Elena

    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

      October 22, 2015 at 10:29 am

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

      Reply
  8. justine @ Full Belly SIsters

    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

      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
  9. Kacey @ The Cookie Writer

    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

      October 21, 2015 at 2:48 pm

      Score!!! 😀

      Reply
  10. Christie

    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

      October 21, 2015 at 2:49 pm

      Thanks Christie - enjoy!

      Reply
  11. Lauren @ Wicked Spatula

    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

      October 21, 2015 at 2:49 pm

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

      Reply
  12. Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine

    October 21, 2015 at 4:41 am

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

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      October 21, 2015 at 2:54 pm

      Totally agree Rebecca!

      Reply
  13. Marlynn @ UrbanBlissLife

    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

      October 21, 2015 at 2:49 pm

      Thanks Marylynn!

      Reply
  14. Joanne/WineLady Cooks

    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

      October 21, 2015 at 2:51 pm

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

      Reply
  15. linda spiker

    October 20, 2015 at 1:05 pm

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

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      October 21, 2015 at 2:51 pm

      Awesome!!

      Reply
  16. The Food Hunter

    October 20, 2015 at 12:08 pm

    I've got to try this!!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      October 21, 2015 at 2:52 pm

      Awesome, let me know what you think Theresa!

      Reply
  17. Patty Haxton Anderson

    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

      October 21, 2015 at 2:52 pm

      Thanks Patty!

      Reply
  18. NANCY hUNTER

    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

      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

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