These Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes are a creamy twist on the classic. With fluffy potatoes and rich cottage cheese, they are both tasty and filling!
You’ll love how easy they are to make, and they give you an extra protein boost too. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun family meal—no judgment if you want seconds! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for fluffiness, while Yukon Gold adds creaminess. For a healthier option, you could use sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a lighter version.
Cottage Cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese provides a creamy texture. If you prefer a dairy-free alternative, try using silken tofu blended until smooth. It gives a similar consistency!
Milk: Regular milk works well, but feel free to use almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk if you want to make it plant-based.
Butter: I usually go for unsalted butter to control the salt. If you’re looking for a vegan option, coconut oil or margarine works nicely.
How Can You Get the Perfect Texture in Mashed Potatoes?
Achieving the right texture is key for delicious mashed potatoes. Here are some steps to ensure creaminess:
- Cook potatoes until fork-tender: Make sure they’re soft enough to mash easily.
- Do not over-mash: If you mash too much, they may become gluey. Just blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Adjust milk gradually: Start with less and add more to reach your desired creaminess without making them too runny.
Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and cubed
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust as needed for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes. You will spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking the potatoes and mixing everything together. It’s a quick and easy side dish to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes:
Start by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and 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 until the potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
2. Mash the Potatoes:
After the potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot. Add in the butter. Using a potato masher or even a fork, mash the potatoes until they are mostly smooth. Feel free to leave some small lumps if you like a bit of texture!
3. Mix in Cottage Cheese:
Now it’s time for the star ingredient—cottage cheese! Stir in the cottage cheese and the milk. Blend everything together until it becomes creamy and smooth. If you want it creamier, you can add a little more milk.
4. Season and Serve:
Season your mashed potatoes with salt and black pepper to taste. Once the flavors are just right, transfer them to a serving bowl. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color.
5. Enjoy:
Serve your Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes warm as a comforting side dish, and enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and substitute the cottage cheese with silken tofu blended until smooth. You can also use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option!
Can I Prepare These Mashed Potatoes in Advance?
Yes! You can make the mashed potatoes ahead of time; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm in a pot on low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
How Should I Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little milk to help bring back the right texture.
