These creamy Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes are a tasty twist on a classic side dish. With fluffy potatoes and smooth cottage cheese, they’re rich without being heavy.
I love how easy these are to whip up! Just mix the potatoes with cottage cheese, and you’ve got a delicious side that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for mashing due to their starchy nature. If you can’t find russet, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative. They have a buttery flavor and also mash well.
Cottage Cheese: I recommend using small curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture. If you’re lactose intolerant, swap it out for silken tofu or a non-dairy yogurt to maintain creaminess.
Milk: Regular milk works well, but you can use oat milk or almond milk for a non-dairy option. Adjust the amount based on how creamy you like your potatoes!
Butter: I prefer unsalted butter for better control over salt levels. If you want a vegan option, use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.
Garlic: This is optional, but I love the added flavor. Garlic powder can be a quick substitute if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand.
How Do You Achieve the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes?
The secret to creamy mashed potatoes lies in the technique! Here’s how you can ensure a smooth texture:
- Start by boiling the potatoes until very tender. Test with a fork — they should break apart easily.
- After draining, let the potatoes evaporate excess water for a minute before mashing. This helps achieve a fluffy texture.
- Add butter and garlic first, and mash gently until combined. This lets the buttery flavor infuse without becoming gummy.
- For the cottage cheese and milk, add them gradually. This way, you can control the creaminess better. Mix just until combined!
- Lastly, keep some curds visible for that delicious cottage cheese texture. For a smoother finish, you can puree with a hand mixer briefly.
Following these steps will help you create deliciously creamy mashed potatoes every time!
Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably small curd)
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust quantity for desired creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional for flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total, including prep and cooking time. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the potatoes and about 15-20 minutes boiling them until they’re perfectly tender. Then, you can mix everything in just a few minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes:
First, place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water to start. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt! Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender enough to be pierced easily with a fork.
2. Drain and Mash:
After the potatoes are cooked, carefully drain them in a colander and return them to the pot or place them in a large bowl. Add the butter and, if you’re using it, the minced garlic. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher until they’re mostly smooth. You want that delicious buttery flavor to infuse right away!
3. Mix in Cottage Cheese and Milk:
Now for the creamy goodness! Stir in the cottage cheese and milk a bit at a time. Mix gently until the mashed potatoes achieve your desired creaminess and texture. Remember, don’t overmix; you want to keep some curds from the cottage cheese for a delightful texture.
4. Season and Serve:
Once everything is well combined, season your mashed potatoes with salt and black pepper to taste. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and, if you like, top with a small pat of butter. Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
5. Enjoy!
Serve these warm and enjoy your creamy, tangy twist on classic mashed potatoes. They’re perfect alongside any main dish!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cottage cheese gives a unique texture, you can experiment with cream cheese or ricotta for a creamier consistency. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly!
How Can I Make These Mashed Potatoes Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based yogurt and use olive oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. Almond milk or oat milk can be great alternatives to regular milk.
Can I Prepare These Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can! Make the potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring in a splash of milk to loosen them up if needed.
What Should I Serve with Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes?
These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a hearty vegetable stew. They also make a great base for a delicious mushroom gravy or a savory sauce!
