Cottage cheese lovers, meet cottage cheese mashed potatoes… because obviously!

A staple amongst side dishes and holiday meal menus – mashed potatoes are pretty much a universal comfort food favorite. There’s no point in reinventing the wheel, but there is something to be said for seeing if we can sneak cottage cheese into the mix.

Enter cottage cheese mashed potatoes – a still-creamy, still-carby version that doesn’t skimp on flavor or protein. Whether you’re planning ahead for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish is deserves a spot at the table.

A New Twist on a Classic

Cauliflower and Potatoes

It seems like cauliflower has been having a moment for a few years now, all with the focus of subtracting or swapping “bad” carbs for “good” cauliflower. To be honest, we’re kind of over the food guilt fads like cauli rice, cauli pizza crust, etc. But it does add a nice touch to this dish. It’s high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, plus we only need to swap out some of the potatoes, which means you’re not missing out on the decadence that’s inherent to mashed potatoes.

Why Cottage Cheese?

There’s nothing wrong with a traditional batch of mashed potatoes made with milk, heavy cream, butter, or whatever combo you prefer. But hear us out – cottage cheese adds the perfect creaminess and a boost of protein. It results in mashed potatoes that are perfectly rich and smooth.

Preparing Cottage Cheese Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of the best things about this recipe is that it uses simple, wholesome ingredients. All you need is potatoes, cauliflower, cottage cheese, salt and pepper. The result? A creamy, savory side dish that’s perfect for any meal.

Easy Steps to Deliciousness

Making these cottage cheese mashed potatoes couldn’t be easier. Start by boiling the potatoes and cauliflower until tender. Then, blend it with cottage cheese and seasonings until smooth. It’s that simple! You can even make it ahead of time and reheat it when needed, which is perfect for weeknight dinner prep and busy holiday gatherings.

Perfect for Holiday Feasts

Light and Nutritious

During the holidays, it’s all too easy to indulge in heavy, calorie-laden dishes and shy away from protein. Cottage cheese mashed potatoes offer a lighter option that still feels indulgent. They’re creamy, satisfying, and they sneak in a few extra grams of protein, making them a guilt-free addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas table.

A Crowd-Pleaser

Worried about picky eaters? Don’t be! This dish is a crowd-pleaser, even for people that think they don’t like cauliflower. The creamy texture and savory flavor are so close to “regular” mashed potatoes that you hardly notice the difference.

Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

Choose the Right Cauliflower

For the best texture, choose fresh, firm cauliflower. Avoid any heads with brown spots or a strong odor. Fresh cauliflower will create the creamiest and most delicious mashed potatoes.

Blend Well

To achieve that perfect, creamy consistency, make sure to blend the cauliflower and cottage cheese thoroughly. A food processor works great for this, but a good blender can do the job as well. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can also mash them by hand.

Season Generously

Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Roasted garlic, a pinch of paprika, or cayenne can elevate the flavors. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives also make a lovely addition. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy consistency.

Can I freeze Cottage Cheese Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze them! Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?

These mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with almost anything. They’re a great side dish for roasted meats, grilled veggies, or even as a topping for shepherd’s pie.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Definitely! Kids usually love the creamy texture and mild flavor. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without them noticing.

How can I make the dish richer?

If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a couple of tablespoons of butter or whole milk.

Mash It Up!

These cottage cheese mashed potatoes are a new twist on a classic side dish and an easy way to add some protein. They’re creamy, flavorful, and so simple to make, making them perfect for any meal, especially during the holidays. Give these a try and leave us a comment below to let us know what you think!