# Components:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large head cauliflower, about 2 lbs, cut into florets
02 - 2 cloves garlic, peeled
→ Dairy
03 - 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
04 - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 - 2 tablespoons heavy cream
→ Meats
07 - 4 slices bacon
→ Seasonings
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, optional for garnish
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F.
02 - 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 to 25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and slightly golden.
03 - 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.
04 - 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.
05 - Add the shredded cheddar cheese and blend again until fully incorporated and melted from the heat of the mash.
06 - Transfer the mash to a serving bowl. Fold in half of the crumbled bacon.
07 - Top with the remaining bacon and sprinkle with fresh chives, if using. Serve hot.
