Save When you are looking for a comforting side dish that fits a low-carb lifestyle, this Keto Bacon and Cheddar Cauliflower Mash is the ultimate solution. By roasting fresh cauliflower with garlic, this recipe achieves a deep, savory flavor and a velvety texture that rivals traditional mashed potatoes without the high carb count.
Save The secret to this mash lies in the roasting process. Unlike steaming, roasting removes excess moisture from the cauliflower, preventing the mash from becoming watery and ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. It is an easy way to elevate a humble vegetable into a gourmet side.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into florets
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 4 slices bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2
- Spread the cauliflower florets and garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil, season with a pinch of salt, and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and slightly golden.
- Step 3
- While the cauliflower roasts, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and crumble when cool.
- Step 4
- Place the roasted cauliflower and garlic in a food processor. Add the cream cheese, butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Pulse until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Step 5
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and blend again until fully incorporated and melted from the heat of the mash.
- Step 6
- Transfer the mash to a serving bowl. Fold in half of the crumbled bacon.
- Step 7
- Top with the remaining bacon and sprinkle with fresh chives, if using. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an even silkier texture, make sure to puree the cauliflower in the food processor while it is still hot from the oven. This helps the cream cheese and butter emulsify perfectly into the mash. If you don't have a food processor, a high-powered blender or immersion blender will also work well.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste. For extra depth, add a pinch of smoked paprika during the blending process. If you want a different flavor profile, try swapping the sharp cheddar for gouda or a spicy pepper jack for a little kick.
Serviervorschläge
This mash goes exceptionally well with grilled meats like steak, pork chops, or roasted chicken. Because of its indulgent flavor, it also makes a wonderful low-carb addition to any holiday table or family dinner.
Save Indulgent, savory, and incredibly easy to make, this Keto Bacon and Cheddar Cauliflower Mash is sure to become a staple in your low-carb recipe rotation. Enjoy the comforting flavors of a classic mash without any of the guilt!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the mash up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to restore creaminess. Add fresh bacon just before serving.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Portion the mash into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave until hot throughout.
- → What can I substitute for bacon?
Try pancetta, diced ham, or crumbled cooked sausage for a different protein element. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat entirely or add sautéed mushrooms for umami flavor.
- → Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Frozen cauliflower works in a pinch, though fresh roasts better. Thaw and drain completely before processing, and reduce the initial cooking time by 5-10 minutes to prevent excess moisture.
- → How do I get the smoothest texture?
Process the cauliflower while still hot, and blend in short pulses, scraping down the sides frequently. A high-speed blender creates an even silkier result than a food processor.
- → What other cheeses work well?
Gouda adds smokiness, pepper jack brings heat, and gruyère offers nutty depth. Blue cheese creates a bold variation. Use any cheese that melts smoothly and complements the bacon.