If you’re searching for a comfort food with a bold twist, the Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Recipe is an absolute game changer. This dish brings together the creamy, dreamy texture of perfectly mashed russet potatoes infused with fragrant fresh rosemary and a savory, tangy punch from blue cheese crumbles. Each bite offers a marvelous blend of earthy herbs, a subtle garlicky warmth, and that unmistakable richness of blue cheese melted softly throughout. It’s not just your everyday side dish; this recipe will quickly become the star on your dinner table and a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet purposeful, each adding essential layers of flavor, texture, or aroma that make the Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Recipe uniquely delicious.
- 2 pounds russet potatoes: Perfectly starchy for a fluffy mash that soaks up all the flavors.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds creamy richness and helps meld the flavors together.
- 2 cloves garlic (crushed): Infuses the potatoes with a soft, aromatic depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a subtle spicy kick to balance the richness.
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning: Brings in savory, smoky notes to elevate the dish’s profile.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing every individual flavor in the mash.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped): Introduces a fragrant herbal brightness that perfectly complements blue cheese.
- 4 ounces blue cheese crumbles: The star ingredient delivering bold, creamy tanginess that transforms mashed potatoes into a luxurious experience.
How to Make Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Potatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F to get ready for the final cheesy bake. Then, peel and cube your russet potatoes for even cooking. Placing them in a large pot of boiling water, cook for about 15 minutes until they are fork tender. This ensures your mash will be smooth and perfectly soft.
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Butter Infusion
While your potatoes are gently boiling, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic, black pepper, steak seasoning, kosher salt, and fresh chopped rosemary. Once melted, reduce the heat to low and let these flavors mingle and infuse into the butter for 5 to 10 minutes. This step is where the magic begins, building layers of warm, aromatic goodness.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes with Cheese and Herb Butter
After draining the tender potatoes, return them to the pot over low heat to help any excess moisture evaporate for the fluffiest result. Using an electric hand mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth. Fold in the aromatic garlic rosemary butter and half of the blue cheese crumbles, mixing gently so the melty blue cheese weaves through every creamy mouthful.
Step 4: Bake for a Golden Finish
Spoon your luscious mashed potatoes into an oven-safe bowl or casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining blue cheese crumbles generously on top. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is just melted and slightly golden. This final step adds that irresistible bubbly crust that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Serve Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up the blue cheese richness, a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh rosemary or a few fresh chives makes a wonderful garnish. You can also add a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few toasted pine nuts for a lovely crunch contrast that surprises and delights.
Side Dishes
These mashed potatoes shine alongside roasted or grilled meats like steak, pork chops, or chicken. Their rich and creamy texture with bold flavors pairs beautifully with savory mains and a crisp green vegetable such as sautéed spinach or a fresh garden salad for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider piping the mashed potatoes into individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. You can broil the tops for a minute or two to develop a golden crust or portion them inside baked potato skins for a fun twist on loaded potatoes. Either way, this dish becomes a showstopper on any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Recipe to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making them perfect for planning ahead or enjoying the next day.
Freezing
While mashed potatoes with blue cheese can be frozen, it’s best to store without the final cheese topping to maintain texture. Place the mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the most luscious texture on reheating, rewarm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or milk and a little extra butter to restore creaminess. If you saved the cheese topping separately, sprinkle it on top and broil briefly to refresh that melty finish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While blue cheese provides a unique tangy richness, feel free to experiment with creamy feta, goat cheese, or even sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles that still pair wonderfully with rosemary.
Is rosemary necessary for this recipe?
Rosemary really complements the earthiness of the blue cheese and potatoes, giving an herby brightness that elevates the whole dish. However, if you’re not a fan, thyme or sage can be excellent alternatives.
How do I make my mashed potatoes extra fluffy?
The key is to thoroughly drain the potatoes and warm them on low heat briefly to evaporate excess moisture before mashing. Using a hand mixer helps create a smooth, light texture without overworking them, which can lead to gluey potatoes.
Can I prepare this recipe vegan?
For a vegan twist, use plant-based butter and substitute blue cheese with vegan blue cheese alternatives or blend in some nutritional yeast and lemon juice to mimic the tangy flavor, though it won’t be the same but still delicious.
What wine pairs well with Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Recipe?
The bold flavors of blue cheese and rosemary call for wines that can match intensity—try a full-bodied Chardonnay or a robust Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines cut through the richness while complementing the savory notes perfectly.
Final Thoughts
If you want to wow your family or guests with something cozy yet sophisticated, the Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a delightful way to elevate a humble side into a dish that excites the palate and warms the soul. Trust me, once you make these, this mash will be requested again and again at your table.
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Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary 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 featuring tender russet potatoes mashed with a savory blend of garlic, rosemary, and melted butter infused with steak seasoning. Finished with crumbled blue cheese and baked to perfection for a rich, indulgent side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Seasoned Butter Mixture
- 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 (175°C) in preparation for baking the mashed potatoes.
- Boil Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed russet potatoes into a large pot of boiling water. Cook them for about 15 minutes or until they are fork tender, ensuring they are soft enough for mashing.
- Prepare Seasoned Butter: While the potatoes are boiling, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add crushed garlic, black pepper, steak seasoning, kosher salt, and chopped fresh rosemary to the butter. Stir frequently.
- Simmer Flavors: After the butter has melted, reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5-10 minutes. This process helps to meld the flavors together.
- Mash Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them thoroughly and return them to the pot over low heat to evaporate any excess moisture. Using an electric hand mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth, then fold in the garlic-rosemary butter and half of the blue cheese crumbles for a creamy texture infused with flavor.
- Assemble for Baking: Transfer the mashed potatoes into an oven-safe bowl or casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining blue cheese crumbles on top to create a savory crust once baked.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes until the blue cheese is melted and slightly golden, enhancing the richness of the dish.
Notes
- Use russet potatoes for the best texture when mashed.
- Adjust the amount of blue cheese according to your taste preference if you desire a stronger or milder flavor.
- Ensure to simmer the butter and spices gently to avoid burning the garlic.
- For a smoother mash, use an electric mixer but avoid over mixing to keep fluffiness.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats or as a hearty side for holiday meals.
