Imagine a side dish that transforms the humble potato into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! Our Spinach and Cheese Mashed Potatoes are not just another boring potato recipe – they're a creamy, green-flecked sensation that elevates comfort food to an art form. With a perfect blend of smooth, buttery potatoes, vibrant spinach, and melted cheese, this dish promises to be the star of any meal, turning ordinary dinners into extraordinary dining experiences.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (e.g., Parmesan or Cheddar)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into evenly sized chunks approximately 1-inch in size to ensure uniform cooking.
- Place potato chunks in a large pot and cover completely with cold, salted water. The water should be about 1 inch above the potatoes to ensure even boiling.
- Bring the pot to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and cook for 15-18 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender. Test by piercing a potato chunk with a fork - it should slide in easily without resistance.
- While potatoes are cooking, wash the fresh spinach thoroughly and chop into fine pieces. Set aside.
- Once potatoes are cooked, drain them completely in a colander, then return them to the hot pot to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
- Add butter and warm milk to the potatoes. Mash using a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth and creamy, being careful not to overmix which can make potatoes gluey.
- Fold in the chopped spinach and grated cheese, stirring gently to distribute evenly throughout the mashed potatoes.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with an extra sprinkle of cheese if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest texture.
- Salt Your Water: Add salt to the potato cooking water to enhance flavor from the inside out.
- Avoid Waterlogged Potatoes: Drain thoroughly and let excess moisture evaporate to prevent soggy mashed potatoes.
- Warm Your Dairy: Heat milk and butter before adding to ensure a smoother, more consistent mix.
- Don't Overmix: Mash just until smooth to prevent a gluey texture.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh spinach for the brightest color and most vibrant flavor.
- Cheese Tip: Add cheese off the heat to prevent separation and maintain a smooth consistency.
- Serve Immediately: Mashed potatoes are best enjoyed hot and fresh, straight from the pot.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 559kcal
Carbohydrates: 93g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 43mg
