If you are looking for a way to elevate your classic comfort food, this Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe is going to become your new go-to side dish. It’s creamy, rich, and infused with an irresistible combination of rosemary, garlic, and savory blue cheese that adds a bold punch without overpowering the natural earthiness of the potatoes. Perfectly smooth with a pop of tangy blue cheese melted on top, this recipe brings a gourmet twist to any meal but is still surprisingly easy to pull together. Trust me, once you try these blue cheese mashed potatoes, you’ll want to make them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each brings something crucial to the Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe. From starchy russet potatoes providing the fluffy base, to the fresh rosemary adding a lovely aroma, every element plays a key role in creating layers of flavor and perfect texture.
- 2 pounds russet potatoes : The ideal potato type for this recipe because they mash beautifully into a creamy texture.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter : Adds rich creaminess and helps carry the flavors of the seasonings.
- 2 cloves garlic (crushed) : Brings a mellow pungency that complements the blue cheese very well.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper : Offers just the right amount of sharp, warming spice.
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning : Adds a savory depth with herbs and spices that balance the tang of the cheese.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt : Essential for drawing out the natural potato flavor and seasoning everything perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped) : A fragrant herb that pairs exceptionally well with both potatoes and blue cheese.
- 4 ounces blue cheese crumbles : The star ingredient delivering bold, creamy, and tangy flavor.
How to Make Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Boil the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cubing your russet potatoes to ensure they cook evenly. Place them in a large pot of boiling water and let them simmer for about 15 minutes until they are fork tender. This step is crucial to creating perfectly soft mashed potatoes without any lumps.
Step 2: Infuse the Butter with Garlic and Rosemary
While the potatoes are boiling, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic, ground black pepper, steak seasoning, kosher salt, and fresh rosemary. Lower the heat and let this mixture simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes. This slow infusing process lets the butter soak up all those amazing flavors, which will later give your mashed potatoes a delicious complexity.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes and Add Seasoned Butter
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them thoroughly and return to the pot over low heat to dry off any residual water. Use an electric hand mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth and fluffy. Then fold in the flavorful garlic rosemary butter you prepared earlier, along with half of the blue cheese crumbles, mixing to combine evenly.
Step 4: Bake with the Remaining Blue Cheese
Transfer the mashed potatoes into an oven-safe bowl or casserole dish. Sprinkle the rest of the blue cheese crumbles on top for a beautiful, melty layer. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is gooey and slightly golden.
How to Serve Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
For an elegant presentation, garnish with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or a sprinkling of chopped chives to add a fresh color contrast and an herbal kick that enhances the blue cheese flavor.
Side Dishes
This Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe pairs wonderfully with hearty mains like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a savory mushroom ragout. The richness of the mashed potatoes complements grilled or roasted dishes beautifully, lending a luxurious touch.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving the mashed potatoes in individual ramekins topped with crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions for an added burst of texture and flavor. You might also swirl in a bit of sour cream or crème fraîche for an extra creamy finish that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool the potatoes before sealing to keep the texture fresh and avoid sogginess.
Freezing
These mashed potatoes freeze well if you want to prepare them in advance. Place the cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, making them an excellent option for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen or refrigerated mashed potatoes, gently reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a splash of milk or cream while reheating really helps bring back that creamy texture and keeps the blue cheese flavor vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
While russet potatoes are best for that fluffy texture in this Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe, Yukon Gold potatoes can work as well if you prefer a creamier, slightly buttery flavor.
Is there a substitute for blue cheese?
If blue cheese is too strong for your taste, try using Gorgonzola or Roquefort for a milder tang, or even feta for a different but complementary flavor profile.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a blue cheese-style vegan cheese. Just keep in mind the flavor won’t be quite the same but still delicious.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the garlic rosemary butter mixture before folding it into the potatoes.
Can I prepare the mashed potatoes entirely in advance?
Yes! You can make the mashed potatoes up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add the remaining blue cheese on top and bake as directed for best freshness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a game-changer in the world of comfort food. It’s a fantastic way to impress your family or guests with layers of flavor that feel both elegant and familiar. Don’t hesitate to try it for your next meal—you’ll find it quickly becomes a staple you reach for again and again.
Print
Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy and flavorful Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes made with tender russet potatoes, infused with garlic, rosemary, and a touch of steak seasoning, then baked with melty blue cheese on top for a rich, comforting side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
Seasoning and Flavorings
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
Cheese
- 4 ounces blue cheese crumbles
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for baking the mashed potatoes later.
- Boil Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed russet potatoes into a large pot of boiling water. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork tender and easily pierced.
- Prepare Flavored Butter: While potatoes boil, melt the unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add crushed garlic, ground black pepper, steak seasoning, kosher salt, and chopped fresh rosemary. Stir occasionally until butter melts and ingredients release their flavors.
- Simmer Flavored Butter: Reduce heat to low and let the butter mixture simmer gently for 5-10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- Mash Potatoes and Combine: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot over low heat. Using an electric hand mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth. Then hand mix in the garlic rosemary butter and half of the blue cheese crumbles until well combined.
- Assemble for Baking: Transfer the mashed potato mixture into an oven-safe bowl or casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining blue cheese crumbles on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the blue cheese on top is melted and slightly bubbly.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh rosemary with dried rosemary, though the flavor will be milder.
- Adjust the amount of blue cheese according to your preference for stronger or milder flavor.
- For creamier mashed potatoes, add a splash of milk or cream while mashing.
- Make sure to keep an eye on the blue cheese while baking to prevent burning.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or a fresh green salad.
