Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Introduction

Mashed cauliflower is a light and creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, perfect for a low-carb or vegetable-packed side dish. This Instant Pot recipe makes the process quick and effortless, delivering fluffy results in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 large or 2 small cauliflower crowns
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place a steamer basket at the bottom of the Instant Pot.
2. Step 2: Add one cup of water to the Instant Pot.
3. Step 3: Remove the core from the cauliflower and chop it into florets.
4. Step 4: Place the cauliflower florets in the steamer basket inside the Instant Pot.
5. Step 5: Close the lid and set the valve to the Sealing position.
6. Step 6: Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. When the Instant Pot beeps, carefully perform a quick release to release the pressure.
7. Step 7: Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a food processor or a large bowl.
8. Step 8: Mash the cauliflower using a potato masher or blend until smooth.
9. Step 9: Season with salt, ground black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir well.
10. Step 10: Serve immediately, adding an extra drizzle of olive oil and freshly cracked pepper if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Add roasted garlic or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Use unsweetened almond milk or cream for a creamier texture.
• Mix in chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a fresh twist.
• For a smoother mash, use a food processor instead of a potato masher.

Storage

Store leftover mashed cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the texture if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cauliflower works well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly and ensure it’s thawed enough to steam properly in the Instant Pot.

How do I make the mashed cauliflower creamier?

For a creamier mash, add a small amount of butter, cream, or milk substitute while mashing. Using a food processor instead of a masher also creates a smoother texture.

Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 72 reviews

• Author: Julian
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Carb

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Description

This Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower recipe offers a quick and healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Using fresh cauliflower steamed and mashed, it creates a creamy, low-carb side dish seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Perfect for those looking for a nutritious, flavorful complement to any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cauliflower

• 1 large or 2 small cauliflower crowns

Other Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Drizzle of olive oil (about 1 tablespoon)

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Instructions

1. Arrange the Instant Pot: Place a steamer basket at the bottom of the Instant Pot to keep the cauliflower elevated above the water.
2. Add water: Pour one cup of water into the Instant Pot beneath the steamer basket to generate steam for cooking.
3. Chop cauliflower: Remove the core from the cauliflower crowns and cut them into uniform florets for even cooking.
4. Set Instant Pot: Close the lid securely and set the valve to the sealing position to prepare for pressure cooking.
5. Cook cauliflower: Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, then perform a quick pressure release once cooking is complete.
6. Mash cauliflower: Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a food processor or large bowl. Use a potato masher or blend gently to mash until creamy.
7. Season the mash: Add salt, black pepper, and drizzle olive oil over the mashed cauliflower, stirring gently to combine.
8. Add toppings (optional): Incorporate any preferred toppings or add-ins such as fresh herbs or garlic as desired for extra flavor.
9. Serve: Plate the mashed cauliflower immediately, adding a little extra olive oil and freshly cracked pepper on top for garnish.
10. Reheat leftovers: If needed, reheat the mashed cauliflower in a microwave-safe container using the microwave.

Notes

• If preferred, use a food processor for an extra smooth texture, but be careful not to overprocess to avoid a gummy consistency.
• For additional flavor, consider mixing in roasted garlic, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Use a quick pressure release carefully to avoid burns from the steam.
• You can adjust the consistency by adding a splash of milk or cream if desired.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Instant Pot
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: instant pot mashed cauliflower, low carb side dish, healthy mashed cauliflower, pressure cooked cauliflower, easy vegetable side