Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes are creamy and dreamy! They mix fluffy potatoes with smooth cottage cheese, making a tasty twist on your classic side dish.
Honestly, these mashed potatoes are a hit at my dinner table! They’re so easy to make, and the cottage cheese adds a fun, healthy touch. Perfect for any meal! 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for creamy mashed potatoes thanks to their starch content. If you’re looking for a different texture, you might try Yukon Gold potatoes, which are buttery and rich.
Cottage Cheese: I recommend small curd cottage cheese for a smoother mix. If you want a dairy-free version, try blending silken tofu or using a plant-based cheese alternative.
Milk: You can use any type of milk, including almond, oat, or soy milk. If you prefer a richer flavor, half-and-half or cream can give you a creamier consistency.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you want it to be dairy-free, there are fantastic vegan butter options out there, or you can use olive oil for a lighter touch.
Garlic: This is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor. If you want to skip it, try using garlic powder or a bit of roasted garlic for a milder taste.
How Do I Achieve the Smoothest Mashed Potatoes?
Getting smooth, creamy mashed potatoes is all about the right techniques. Here’s how:
- Boil the potatoes until they’re tender; don’t overcook them. You want them soft enough to mash easily.
- Drain them well to get rid of excess moisture. This prevents watery mashed potatoes.
- Use a potato masher, ricer, or food mill for the best texture. A ricer delivers a fluffier result.
- Add warm milk and butter gradually; this helps keep the potatoes creamy instead of gummy.
- Finally, fold in the cottage cheese gently. This adds creaminess without overmixing.
Give these tips a try, and you’ll have the best mashed potatoes around!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably small curd)
- 1/2 cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for topping
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional for flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., chives or rosemary)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 15-20 minutes cooking the potatoes and the rest preparing and mixing in the creamy cottage cheese goodness. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes:
Start by placing the peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 15-20 minutes. They should be tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Prepare the Milk and Butter:
While the potatoes are cooking, take a small saucepan and warm the milk, butter, and minced garlic (if you’re using it) over low heat. Just heat until the butter melts; do not let it boil. This will help keep your mashed potatoes creamy.
3. Mash the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot. Now, mash them using a potato masher or a ricer until they are nice and smooth. This step is crucial for the perfect texture!
4. Mix in the Good Stuff:
Gradually stir the warm milk and butter mixture into the mashed potatoes until everything is blended and creamy. Next, gently fold in the cottage cheese until it’s well combined.
5. Season and Serve:
Now it’s time to season! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Transfer the delicious mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. For a little extra indulgence, dot the top with a bit of extra butter and sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a beautiful finish.
6. Optional Broiling:
If you want a lovely golden top, pop the bowl under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Just watch it carefully, so it doesn’t burn!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your creamy, flavorful cottage cheese mashed potatoes warm and enjoy this delightful twist on a classic dish!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese will work just fine and will still provide that creamy texture. Feel free to use whatever type suits your dietary preference!
Can I Make These Mashed Potatoes Vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative, like a vegan cream cheese or blended silken tofu. Use plant-based milk and olive oil in place of butter for a completely vegan dish.
How Do I Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Can I Freeze Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze these mashed potatoes! Just make sure they are fully cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat when ready to serve!