Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Introduction
Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes are a creamy and comforting twist on a classic side dish. By blending cottage cheese into the mash, you get a rich texture with added protein while keeping it light. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients
- 4 lbs potatoes (Yukon gold or russet, cubed, about 10 cups)
- 4 cloves garlic
- 4 tbsp butter (sliced)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (blended, full fat or 2% recommended)
- 2 tbsp milk (optional, to reach desired consistency)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4–1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: butter and finely chopped chives for topping
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the cubed potatoes and whole garlic cloves into a large pot. Cover with cold water, making sure the water level is about 1 inch above the potatoes.
- Step 2: Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes and garlic are very fork-tender.
- Step 3: Drain the potatoes and garlic, then return them to the pot. Mash as smooth or chunky as you prefer, mashing the garlic thoroughly. For an extra smooth texture, use an immersion blender.
- Step 4: Add the sliced butter to the hot potatoes and allow it to melt. Stir in the blended cottage cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Step 5: Add milk gradually if you want to thin out the mashed potatoes to your preferred consistency. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
- Step 6: Serve warm, optionally topped with additional butter and finely chopped chives for a fresh finish.
Tips & Variations
- For the creamiest potatoes, blend the cottage cheese until smooth before adding it to the mix.
- Use Yukon gold potatoes for a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture or russets for fluffier results.
- For a garlic boost, roast the garlic beforehand instead of boiling it with the potatoes.
- Swap milk for cream or buttermilk to add richness and tang.
Storage
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally. You can add a little milk or butter when reheating to restore creaminess.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, but full fat or 2% cottage cheese gives the best creamy texture and flavor. Lower fat versions may result in a thinner consistency and less richness.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
You can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients if using Yukon gold potatoes, which have thin skins. For russets, peeling is usually preferred for smoother mashed potatoes.
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Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Creamy and flavorful Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes made with Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, garlic, butter, and blended cottage cheese for a rich, smooth texture. A comforting side dish with a healthy twist using cottage cheese to add protein and creaminess without heavy cream or excess fat.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Aromatics
- 4 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), cubed (about 10 cups)
- 4 cloves garlic
Dairy and Seasoning
- 4 tbsp butter, sliced
- 1 cup cottage cheese, blended (full fat or 2% recommended)
- 2 tbsp milk (optional, for consistency)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 – 1/2 tsp black pepper
Optional Topping
- Butter
- Finely chopped chives
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes and Garlic: Add the cubed potatoes and whole garlic cloves to a large pot. Fill the pot with cold water until the water level is about 1 inch above the potatoes.
- Cook Potatoes: Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and boil the potatoes and garlic for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very fork tender and easy to mash. Drain the water and return the potatoes and garlic to the pot.
- Mash Potatoes and Garlic: Mash the potatoes and garlic as smooth as you like using a potato masher. For a super smooth texture, you can use an immersion blender. Ensure the garlic is mashed well for even flavor.
- Add Butter and Cottage Cheese: Add the sliced butter to the hot mashed potatoes and allow it to melt completely. Then mix in the blended cottage cheese, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Adjust Consistency: Add milk gradually, mixing until you reach your preferred mashed potatoes consistency, whether thick or creamy thin.
- Serve: Optionally, top with additional butter and finely chopped chives for extra flavor and presentation before serving.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally buttery flavor or Russet potatoes for fluffier texture.
- Blending the cottage cheese before adding prevents lumps and ensures creaminess.
- Adjust milk quantity depending on desired thickness of mashed potatoes.
- Garlic can be roasted beforehand for a sweeter, milder taste if preferred.
- For a smoother mash, use an immersion blender carefully to avoid overmixing which can cause gluey texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cottage cheese mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, easy side dish, comfort food, healthy mashed potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes

