Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes are creamy and fluffy with a twist! The cottage cheese makes them rich and adds a little protein. You’ll love how simple they are to whip up.
I like to sneak in some chives or garlic for extra flavor—so good! These mashies make a perfect side dish for any meal. Who knew healthy could taste this delicious? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend russet or Yukon gold for their creaminess when mashed. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try cauliflower! It gives the same texture with fewer calories, and it’s easy to mix in cottage cheese.
Cottage Cheese: Regular or low-fat works well, depending on your dietary needs. If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can substitute with cream cheese or sour cream for a different flavor and texture. Just adjust the amount of milk as needed!
Milk: I usually stick with regular milk, but you could also use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just make sure to choose unsweetened varieties to keep the taste in check.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to, but if you’re watching your salt intake, you can skip it or use a bit of olive oil instead. It won’t affect the creaminess, and it adds a nice flavor!
How Do I Get Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
The key to creamy mashed potatoes is how you mash them. Here’s the best approach:
- After boiling and draining, return the hot potatoes to the pot. This helps steam off excess moisture.
- Add the butter first while the potatoes are still hot, then mash until smooth. This allows the butter to melt fully into the potatoes.
- Gradually mix in cottage cheese and milk. Start with less milk, adding more as needed until you reach your preferred creaminess.
- Use a potato ricer if you want them extra silky; it breaks the potatoes down finer than a masher.
Taking your time with mashing will ensure they stay fluffy rather than gluey! Enjoy your creamy creation! 😊
Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup low-fat or regular cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust as needed for creaminess)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for serving
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10-15 minutes to prep the potatoes and cook them, and another 10-15 minutes to mash and mix everything together. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil Your Potatoes:
Start by placing your peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot. Fill it up with cold water until the potatoes are just covered. Add a pinch of salt to the water. This will help flavor your potatoes!
2. Cook Until Tender:
Turn the burner to medium-high and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes. They’re done when you can easily poke them with a fork!
3. Drain and Prepare:
Carefully drain the potatoes in a colander. Then, return them to the pot or a large mixing bowl while they’re still hot. This helps to evaporate any excess water, leading to fluffier mashed potatoes!
4. Mash it Up:
Add the butter to the hot potatoes. Using a potato masher (or a ricer for super smooth potatoes), start mashing until they reach your desired consistency. The heat from the potatoes will melt the butter perfectly!
5. Add Cottage Cheese and Milk:
Next, gradually mix in the cottage cheese and milk. Keep mashing or stirring until everything is well combined and creamy. If you like your potatoes extra creamy, feel free to add more milk until you reach the perfect texture!
6. Season to Taste:
Make sure to taste your mashed potatoes! Season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your palate.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Add a small pat of butter on top and sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your creamy, delicious Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes warm. They’re perfect as a side for any meal or just by themselves. Enjoy the hearty, protein-packed goodness!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet and Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for their creaminess, you can also use red potatoes or fingerlings. Just keep in mind that they may yield a slightly different texture.
How Can I Make These Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat them gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
What Should I Do If My Mashed Potatoes Are Too Thick?
If your mashed potatoes are thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a little more milk until you reach the desired creaminess. Add it gradually to avoid making them too runny!
Can I Freeze Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze leftover mashed potatoes for up to 2 months! Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk if necessary.
