5 BEST Mashed Potatoes Substitutes in Recipes

Does your holiday table feel incomplete without mashed potatoes?

Are you looking for an alternative starch to serve this season that won’t break the bank or require a ton of new complicated kitchen gadgets?

If so, then learning how to cook and use mashed potatoes and also discovering the five best substitutes for it might be just what you need.

Mashed potatoes are simple comfort food, but they don’t have to be boring.

Switch up your seasonal sides with some creative ways to use potato dishes.

What is Mashed Potatoes?

Mashed potatoes are a classic and beloved dish enjoyed around the world.

It’s made of boiled Potatoes that are mashed until the desired consistency is achieved, usually ranging from creamier to chunky.

The flavor of mashed potatoes is quite mild, with some salt and butter added for taste; however, ingredients like sour cream or cheese can be used to add a stronger kick.

The texture should be thick yet smooth, nothing too firm or too soft.

For best results, it’s best to use Idaho or Russet potatoes as they yield an optimal result when boiled.

When preparing mashed potatoes at home, it’s important not to over-mash them since you can end up ending with a gluey mess.

Plus, make sure you season them properly with salt and pepper, adding whatever extra seasonings you prefer according to your tastes.

5 BEST Mashed Potatoes Substitutes in Recipes

Iff you’re looking for mashed potato substitutes in recipes, there are plenty of options available.

Here are five of the best that will give you the same texture and flavor as traditional mashed potatoes:

1 – Mashed Cauliflower

Mashed cauliflower is a delicious and nutritious dish that can make a great addition to any meal.

It is made from steamed or boiled cauliflower that has been mashed with salt, butter, garlic, pepper, and other seasonings.

The taste of mashed cauliflower is incredibly creamy and savory but without the added calories found in mashed potatoes.

Although slightly denser than mashed potatoes in texture, you will be able to discern individual bits of florets when you bite into them.

Cooking it yourself is easy; all you have to do is steam the cauliflower until fork-tender before mashing it with ingredients of your choosing.

Mashed cauliflower makes an excellent substitute for mashed potatoes as they are lower in carbs while still bringing amazing flavor to every bite.

2 – Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed sweet potatoes are a delicious, easy-to-cook side dish as an alternative to mashed potatoes.

Sweet potatoes have an intense flavor that adds depth and sweetness to the dish.

As they cook, they become smothered with a velvety texture that is both smooth and creamy.

The best way to make them is by boiling them in salted water until tender, then mashing them with butter and warm milk until you reach the desired consistency.

Or you can roast them in the oven for a more flavorful take.

Substituting mashed sweet potatoes for mashed potatoes can be a perfect addition to your dinner table for any occasion.

3 – Mashed Rutabaga

Mashed rutabaga is a root vegetable dish gaining popularity.

It can be prepared similarly to mashed potatoes and served with a variety of main dishes or as its own side.

Rutabaga has a slightly sweet, somewhat nutty flavor that pairs nicely with savory dishes.

For the texture, some prefer it smooth, while others prefer small chunks for mouthfeel.

To make mashed rutabaga, peel and chop the vegetable into large pieces.

Simmer in salted water until tender, then drain and mash.

Rutabaga can always be blended with mashed potatoes for an added depth of flavor and nutrition boost – perfect for health-conscious families who want to keep things interesting on their dinner plates.

4 – Mashed Parsnips

Mashed parsnips provide a nice alternative to mashed potatoes, offering their own subtle sweetness that brings depth to any meal.

Parsnips have a unique texture when cooked, as they remain slightly firm but also give way to a delicious creaminess when mashed.

With the right blend of herbs and spices, you can craft so much flavor with relatively little effort.

To cook them, simply peel and chop the parsnips into equal pieces, then boil them in salted water until soft.

Mash them with butter and seasoning or your favorite condiment before serving.

Mashed parsnips add an interesting twist to any traditional dish.

5 – Mashed Turnips

Mashed turnips are an underrated root vegetable that can be served as a healthy and delicious substitute for mashed potatoes.

Preparing turnips is easy- they can be steamed, boiled, or cooked in the microwave until they are soft to the touch.

Once cooked, peel off the tough skin, roughly chop, and use a potato masher to mash them into a creamy texture.

Mashed turnips have a slightly sweet taste and mild savory flavor while still retaining a bit of their natural earthiness.

The mashed turnip texture also varies depending on how much you mash it, but it should be similar to mashed potatoes – creamy with bits of small lumps.

To substitute mashed potatoes for turnips, use equal parts of butter and milk, season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs for garnish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many substitutes for mashed potatoes that can bring healthier, delicious options to your dinner table.

Whether you’re trying something new or adding a twist to an old favorite, consider these five alternatives the next time you’re looking for an alternative: mashed cauliflower, sweet potatoes, rutabaga, parsnips, and turnips.

Each vegetable has its own unique flavor and texture that can add something special to your meal – you’ll never get bored of the same side dish again.