Transform your ordinary mashed potatoes into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece with this elevated comfort food recipe. This dish combines the classic appeal of mashed potatoes with nutritious broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a side dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any occasion that calls for something special.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 medium yellow-fleshed potatoes (about 2.2 lbs/1 kg)
- 2½ cups (250g) fresh broccoli florets
- ½ cup (120ml) whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, plus extra for garnish
- ¼ cup (60ml) reserved potato cooking water
- ½ cup (50g) aged cheddar cheese, shredded, plus extra for garnish
- 1½ teaspoons (7.5g) Himalayan salt, divided
- ¼ cup (15g) fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Additional unsalted butter
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Green onions, thinly sliced
- Red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel potatoes and cut into equal-sized quarters (or 6-8 pieces for larger potatoes)
- Place in pot and cover with cold water
- Add 1 teaspoon Himalayan salt
- Bring to a boil
- Cook for 12 minutes or until nearly tender
2. Cook the Broccoli
- Add broccoli florets to boiling potato water
- Cook for 4-5 minutes until soft
- Reserve ¼ cup potato cooking water
- Drain potatoes and broccoli
3. Prepare the Cream Mixture
- Combine cream and butter in a small covered pot
- Heat on medium-low until butter melts
- Keep warm until ready to use
4. Final Assembly
- Return drained potatoes and broccoli to warm pot
- Add warm cream mixture and reserved potato water
- Season with ½ teaspoon salt and black pepper
- Mash until creamy, leaving some chunks for texture
- Fold in cheddar cheese and parsley
- Adjust seasoning to taste
5. Garnish and Serve
- Transfer to serving dish
- Create a well in the center
- Add butter to well
- Top with extra cheddar, pepper flakes, and green onions
Time and Nutritional Information
Preparation Time:
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Cook: 20 minutes
- Total: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Calcium: 150mg
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Perfect Potato Selection
- Choose potatoes of similar size for even cooking
- Yellow-fleshed varieties like Yukon Gold provide the best texture
- Avoid waxy potatoes for optimal mashing
- Cooking Technique
- Always start potatoes in cold water
- Salt the cooking water generously
- Don’t overcook the broccoli to maintain its color
- Texture Success
- Don’t overwork the potatoes when mashing
- Keep some chunks for rustic texture
- Use warm (not hot) cream mixture
Variations and Substitutions
- Dietary Modifications
- Use milk or half-and-half instead of cream for lighter version
- Substitute with plant-based alternatives for dairy-free option
- Try different cheese varieties (Gruyère, Gouda)
- Vegetable Options
- Replace broccoli with cauliflower
- Add roasted garlic
- Mix in sautéed leeks
- Seasoning Alternatives
- Add roasted garlic
- Include fresh herbs like thyme or chives
- Sprinkle with truffle salt
Common FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare up to 24 hours ahead. Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) with extra cream/butter to maintain moisture.
Q: Can I freeze these mashed potatoes?
A: While possible, freezing may affect texture. If freezing, thaw overnight and reheat slowly with added liquid.
Q: How do I prevent gummy mashed potatoes?
A: Don’t overwork the potatoes when mashing and use warm (not hot) liquid additions.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Fresh is preferred, but frozen works. Reduce cooking time for frozen broccoli to prevent mushiness.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate in airtight container up to 3 days
- Keep garnishes separate
- Add extra butter/cream when reheating
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cut potatoes ahead; store in cold water
- Prep broccoli florets day before
- Shred cheese in advance
- Chop herbs just before using
This comfort food classic combines the heartiness of mashed potatoes with the nutrition of broccoli and the indulgence of sharp cheddar. Perfect for holiday gatherings or elevating weeknight dinners, these Broccoli Cheddar Mashed Potatoes offer a delicious way to incorporate vegetables into a beloved side dish. The combination of creamy potatoes, tender broccoli, and melted cheese creates a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
