If you are on the lookout for a mashed potato recipe that goes beyond the ordinary and delivers a rich, complex flavor, the Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe is going to be your new obsession. This dish combines the creamy, fluffy texture of perfectly mashed russet potatoes with the tangy, bold punch of blue cheese, complemented by aromatic rosemary and garlic-infused butter. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or just want a cozy, indulgent side for your weeknight meal, this Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe offers comforting familiarity with an exciting twist that makes every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients work harmoniously to create a dish packed with flavor and perfect texture. Each component plays its part—from the starchy russet potatoes that give fluffiness, to the vibrant blue cheese providing that signature zing and creaminess, rounded out by fragrant rosemary and garlic butter.
- 2 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and cubed): The ideal choice for fluffy mashed potatoes with a smooth consistency.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic and rosemary flavors evenly.
- 2 cloves garlic (crushed): Infuses a gentle savory depth that wakes up the palate.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Brings a subtle heat to balance the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning: Adds a savory, slightly smoky layer of seasoning that enhances the potatoes.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped): Offers a fragrant herbal note that pairs perfectly with blue cheese.
- 4 ounces blue cheese crumbles: The star ingredient delivering tangy, creamy bursts that make this recipe unforgettable.
How to Make Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Boil the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to get it ready for the final bake. Then, place the peeled and cubed russet potatoes into a large pot of boiling water. Boil them for about 15 minutes until they are fork tender—this ensures you’ll get ultra-smooth, creamy mashed potatoes without lumps.
Step 2: Infuse the Butter with Flavor
While the potatoes cook, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic, black pepper, steak seasoning, kosher salt, and chopped rosemary. Let it simmer on low heat for 5 to 10 minutes to allow all those wonderful flavors to mingle and infuse right into the butter, which will then transfer that deliciousness to the potatoes.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes and Add Flavor
Drain the potatoes once tender, then return them to the pot on low heat—this helps evaporate any leftover moisture. Use an electric hand mixer for a smooth, airy mash, then fold in the garlic rosemary butter along with half of the blue cheese crumbles. This step is where the magic truly happens, as the potatoes soak up that tangy richness and aromatic butter.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your mashed potato mixture into an oven-safe bowl or casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining blue cheese on top to create a slightly melted, golden cheesy crust after baking. Pop it into the oven for 5 to 7 minutes—enough to melt the cheese without drying out the potatoes.
How to Serve Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or a touch of parsley on top to add a fresh pop of color and mild sharpness that balances the richness. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle a little extra melted butter or a tiny splash of cream on the side before serving.
Side Dishes
This Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like steak or chicken, as well as smoky barbecue ribs. It also complements roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad, adding a luxurious contrast that brightens up the whole plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique presentation, serve the mashed potatoes in individual ramekins topped with crumbled bacon and a rosemary sprig. You can also create little mashed potato “nests” on a baking tray, bake them slightly, and add blue cheese crumbles and caramelized onions for a fancy appetizer or side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The complex flavors deepen after resting, making your leftovers taste even better the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze these mashed potatoes, but for best quality, ensure they are tightly wrapped or in an airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the potatoes gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess and stir well to revive the blue cheese’s vibrant flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of blue cheese?
Absolutely! While blue cheese gives this recipe its signature bold flavor, you can substitute with creamy goat cheese or sharp cheddar for a different but equally delicious twist.
What type of potatoes works best for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal because their high starch content produces fluffy, smooth mashed potatoes that absorb flavors beautifully. Yukon golds could work too but yield a denser texture.
Is it okay to prepare the garlic rosemary butter in advance?
Yes, you can make the garlic rosemary butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it gently before mixing it into the potatoes to revive all those wonderful flavors.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
This version relies heavily on butter and blue cheese, so to make a vegan-friendly version, substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and try a vegan cheese alternative that mimics blue cheese’s unique tanginess.
Why do I bake the mashed potatoes at the end?
Baking melts the blue cheese on top and melds all the flavors together, creating a deliciously creamy, golden crust that elevates the texture and taste, making this mashed potato recipe stand out.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the warm, comforting allure of a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes, especially when elevated by the bold, tangy flavor of blue cheese. This Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a delightful way to take a classic favorite to new heights. Give it a try for your next meal and watch your guests marvel at how something so simple can taste incredibly sophisticated and delicious!
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 melted butter, then baked with crumbled blue cheese for a rich, tangy finish. Perfect as a comforting side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Butter and Seasonings
- 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 the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the final dish.
- Boil Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of boiling water. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork tender and easily mashed.
- Prepare Garlic Rosemary Butter: While the potatoes are boiling, combine the butter, crushed garlic, black pepper, steak seasoning, kosher salt, and chopped fresh rosemary in a small skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter is fully melted.
- Simmer Flavors: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse the butter.
- Mash Potatoes and Combine: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot over low heat to dry out excess moisture. Using an electric hand mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth. Gently fold in the garlic rosemary butter mixture and half of the blue cheese crumbles until well combined.
- Assemble and Top: Transfer the mashed potatoes to an oven-safe bowl or casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining blue cheese crumbles evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the blue cheese on top is slightly melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Use russet potatoes for the best texture; they mash easily and become fluffy.
- Adjust the amount of blue cheese according to your preference for tanginess.
- Steak seasoning can be substituted with a mix of paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder if unavailable.
- To make ahead, prepare mashed potatoes through step 5, cover, and refrigerate. Before serving, add the blue cheese topping and bake as directed.
