These creamy cottage cheese mashed potatoes are a fun twist on the classic side dish! The cottage cheese makes them extra smooth and adds a bit of protein, too.
Honestly, I love how they taste—rich and fluffy without all the heavy cream. Plus, you can enjoy them guilt-free, and they go perfectly with just about anything!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower can work; just steam it well and blend until smooth.
Cottage Cheese: Small curd cottage cheese is preferred for its smoothness. If you need a dairy-free option, try silken tofu or non-dairy cream cheese. Just blend until creamy for a similar texture!
Milk: You can adjust the milk to your liking. For a richer flavor, use heavy cream or half-and-half. If you’re avoiding dairy, almond milk or oat milk can be good alternatives.
Butter: I like using real butter for flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan butter or olive oil for a lighter option.
How Can I Get the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes?
Getting creamy mashed potatoes is all about technique and timing. Make sure you mash the potatoes while they’re still hot; this helps break them down better.
- Boil until very tender, about 15-20 minutes, then drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
- Use a potato masher, ricer, or mixer for a super smooth texture. Ricing gives the best lightness!
- Mix in warm milk and butter gradually, so it blends evenly. This keeps everything creamy—not gummy! Add more milk as needed.
- For added flavor, include garlic before mixing—it can enhance the overall taste beautifully.
Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and quartered
- 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd, preferably full-fat)
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust for creaminess)
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or rosemary)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes peeling and cutting the potatoes, 15-20 minutes for boiling and mashing, and a few more minutes for mixing and garnishing. It’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
First, place your peeled and quartered potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor and bring everything to a boil over high heat.
2. Simmer Until Tender:
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer. You want them to become very tender; this should take about 15-20 minutes. When they’re ready, drain the potatoes well, ensuring all the water is removed.
3. Mash the Potatoes:
While the potatoes are still hot, use a potato masher or a mixer to mash them until they reach your desired smoothness. If you want fluffier potatoes, a mixer works best!
4. Prepare the Milk and Butter:
In a small saucepan or a microwave-safe bowl, gently warm the milk and butter together until the butter is melted. This step is key to keeping your mashed potatoes creamy.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the warm milk and butter mixture into the mashed potatoes along with the cottage cheese and minced garlic (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. If you want it even creamier, feel free to add more milk!
6. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to season! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preference. Mix well.
7. Transfer and Garnish:
Transfer your delicious mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. Create a little well in the center and drizzle in some extra melted butter if you like. This looks pretty and adds more flavor!
8. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
For a beautiful touch, garnish your mashed potatoes with some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or a sprig of rosemary. It adds color and freshness!
9. Serve Warm:
Enjoy your creamy cottage cheese mashed potatoes warm as a delightful side to any meal. They’re comforting and tasty!
Enjoy the creamy texture and subtle tang the cottage cheese adds to your classic mashed potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creamy texture, you can also use red potatoes. They’ll result in a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the cottage cheese with a non-dairy alternative like silken tofu or dairy-free cream cheese. You can also use almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk and a dairy-free butter substitute.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Can I Add Other Ingredients for More Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in additional ingredients like sour cream for tanginess, cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist, or cooked bacon for a smoky flavor, depending on your preference!
