If you're looking for a quick and easy side dish that's creamy, healthy, and delicious, try our Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower Recipe. This is one of the best Instant Pot recipes because it is super simple and ready in minutes!
This recipe works whether you're cutting back on carbs or just shaking up your usual dinner routine. Mashed cauliflower is a great alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that even kids will enjoy.

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In the past, we have made a mashed cauliflower recipe, but I was looking for a way to make it in less time for those busy nights. The instant pot is the perfect solution!
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Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower
I love making mashed cauliflower since it Is healthier and better for you than traditional mashed potatoes. Since it's low in carbs, it's an excellent choice for anyone on a keto or low-carb diet. It's also packed with vitamins, making it a healthy side dish option.
Instant Pot cauliflower mash is fast and easy. You only need a handful of ingredients – most of which you likely already have in your kitchen. This makes it perfect for busy home cooks or parents who need dinner on the table in a flash.

Instant Pot Recipes
Instant Pot recipes are a game-changer for busy people because they save time without sacrificing flavor. No matter how busy your day has been, the Instant Pot lets you make a delicious dinner in a fraction of the time. You can use it to pressure cook, sauté, steam, and more!
- Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
- Instant Pot Crack Chicken
- Instant Pot Chicken Tacos with Lime
- Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients For Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower Recipe
- Cauliflower – Cut into florets. Smaller florets cook more evenly and blend smoothly.
- Butter – You can use unsalted butter if you prefer.
- Heavy Cream – Provides creaminess and smoothness.
- Garlic – To add flavor.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste.
- Parsley – Garnish adds color and freshness.
- Water – Used to steam the cauliflower in the Instant Pot.
Best Instant Pot Tools
An Instant Pot or other pressure cooker is essential for this recipe, while a colander and an immersion blender are helpful to have on hand.
If you don’t have an immersion blender, a traditional blender or potato masher will work, too. These tools can be found on Amazon, so you can quickly get what you need.
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How to Make Mashed Cauliflower Instant Pot
Wash a head of cauliflower and cut it into florets. Place the florets into the Instant Pot along with the water. Secure the lid and seal. Cook on Manual at High Pressure for 3 minutes. Once finished, do a quick release and drain the water.


Return the cauliflower to the pot and add butter, heavy cream, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash using a hand masher or hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Garnish with parsley and serve this delicious, healthy side dish!

Tips for Making Cauliflower Mash
Tip 1: You can use frozen cauliflower, but the flavor and texture will be better with fresh cauliflower.
Tip 2: Drain as much liquid as possible after cooking to avoid a watery finished product.
Tip 3: Feel free to add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to take this dish to the next level.

FAQS For Cauliflower Mash Instant Pot
How Do I Store Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems a bit dry, stir in a splash of broth or milk until it’s creamy again.
Can You Freeze Mashed Cauliflower?
This dish freezes well. Divide it into smaller portions and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and be sure to stir well to bring it back to its creamy texture.
What To Serve With Mashed Cauliflower?
Mashed cauliflower is a great side dish for chicken, steak, or fish. It also works well with comfort foods like meatloaf or pork chops.
Cauliflower Recipes
Cauliflower recipes are popular because cauliflower makes a good substitute for higher-carb ingredients. It is a healthy choice that you can prepare in countless ways. Its mild flavor quickly takes on the taste of spices, sauces, and seasonings.
- Italian Farro with Cauliflower
- Fried Cauliflower
- Instant Pot Cheesy Cauliflower Soup
- Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower

With this Instant Pot mashed cauliflower recipe, you’ve got a healthy, low-carb side dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. It’s an excellent way to sneak more veggies into your meals, especially if your kids are resistant.
Instant Pot Meals
📖 Recipe

Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower washed and cut into florets
- 1 cup water
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and cut it into small florets.
- Place the cauliflower florets into the Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the steam release knob is set to "Sealing." Select “Manual” mode, set to “High Pressure,” and set the timer for 3 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick pressure release by turning the steam release knob to “Venting.”
- Open the lid and drain the water from the Instant Pot.
- Add the butter, heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the cauliflower. Mash everything together using a hand masher or a hand mixer until your desired consistency is reached.
- Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
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Notes
- You can use frozen cauliflower; however, fresh cauliflower will provide a better flavor and texture.
- After cooking, be sure to drain as much liquid as possible to avoid a watery final product.
- You can also add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to enhance the dish.
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