Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Easy Recipe for Holidays & Weeknights
There’s nothing quite like a generous serving of perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes to complete a meal. But what if we told you that with one simple addition – a humble wheel of Boursin cheese – you could transform this beloved classic into an extraordinary culinary experience? Say hello to the most incredibly delicious, rich, and perfectly seasoned mashed potatoes you’ve ever tasted! This recipe brings together the comforting familiarity of fluffy potatoes with the gourmet touch of Boursin, creating a side dish that’s surprisingly easy to make yet tastes absolutely luxurious. It requires just a handful of readily available ingredients and minimal effort, making it ideal for everything from a busy weeknight dinner to an elaborate holiday feast. Imagine serving these irresistibly creamy, cheesy potatoes at your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner – they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and leave everyone at the table asking for the recipe!
Why These Boursin Mashed Potatoes Are Your New Favorite Side Dish
These aren’t just any mashed potatoes; they’re an experience. Here’s what makes this particular Boursin mashed potato recipe truly exceptional and a must-try for any occasion:
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Unbeatable Flavor & Texture
The combination of fluffy, perfectly cooked potatoes and the rich, creamy texture of Boursin cheese is simply divine. Boursin, particularly the popular Garlic & Fine Herbs variety, infuses the potatoes with a complex, savory flavor profile that includes garlic, parsley, and chives. This means you don’t have to fuss with chopping multiple herbs or mincing garlic; the cheese does all the hard work for you, delivering perfectly seasoned mashed potatoes every time. The result is a velvety smooth, incredibly flavorful mash that’s anything but bland, offering a gourmet taste with minimal effort. The subtle tang and aromatic herbs in Boursin elevate a simple potato dish into something truly special.
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Effortless Preparation
Despite their gourmet taste, these Boursin mashed potatoes are remarkably simple to prepare. The beauty lies in Boursin’s pre-seasoned nature. It effortlessly melts into the hot potatoes, distributing its delicious flavors without requiring extra steps or a long list of individual spices and herbs. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimum fuss, making it perfect for busy home cooks who still want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s an ideal recipe for those who want to achieve a sophisticated side dish quickly.
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Incredible Versatility
While we highly recommend the classic Garlic & Fine Herbs Boursin for its quintessential flavor, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can experiment with any Boursin flavor you love most! Whether it’s the Black Pepper, Shallot & Chive, Red Chili Pepper, or even a seasonal variety, the core principle of creamy, flavored cheese enhancing potatoes remains consistent. What’s more, Boursin offers a dairy-free alternative, making it possible to create these delectable mashed potatoes for guests with dietary restrictions without compromising on taste or texture. This versatility ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy this amazing side dish, tailored to their preferences or dietary needs.
We’re genuinely passionate about Boursin and how it elevates so many dishes (check out our Creamy Boursin Chicken for another fantastic idea!). While this isn’t a sponsored post, we truly believe in sharing ingredients that make cooking easier and more delicious. (But Boursin, if you’re reading this, our inbox is always open for collaborations!)
Expert Tips for Perfectly Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes
Achieving the ideal texture and flavor for your Boursin mashed potatoes is easy when you know a few chef-approved tricks. Follow these tips to ensure your side dish is nothing short of spectacular, turning a simple potato dish into a culinary masterpiece:
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Choose the Right Potatoes
The foundation of great mashed potatoes starts with the right variety. For the absolute smoothest, fluffiest, and most indulgent mashed potatoes, opt for high-starch varieties like Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. These potatoes break down easily when cooked and absorb liquids beautifully, resulting in that desirable airy and creamy texture that perfectly complements the Boursin. In contrast, waxy varieties like red potatoes or new potatoes tend to hold their shape more, have less starch, and can lead to a gummier, less fluffy mash. While delicious in other applications, they aren’t ideal for this recipe’s intended creaminess. For a truly luxurious mash, ensure you peel your potatoes completely. While potato skins are edible and offer a rustic charm, they can introduce a slightly tougher texture that detracts from the overall silkiness of the Boursin-infused mash. Peel them thoroughly to achieve peak creaminess and a velvety mouthfeel.
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Don’t Over-Mash Your Potatoes!
This is perhaps the most crucial rule for perfect mashed potatoes, often overlooked by even seasoned cooks. It might seem counterintuitive, but over-mashing is a real danger! Potatoes, particularly high-starch varieties, contain a lot of starch molecules. When you mash them too vigorously or for too long, these starch molecules break down excessively and release, causing the potatoes to become gummy, gluey, or even pasty. This unappealing texture is very difficult, if not impossible, to reverse. The key is to mash just enough until all the ingredients are incorporated and you reach your desired consistency – a light, fluffy, and creamy texture with no visible lumps. A traditional potato masher is often preferred over an electric mixer for this reason, as it gives you more control and reduces the risk of overworking the potatoes. If you have one, a potato ricer can also help achieve an incredibly smooth texture without over-mashing, as it separates the starch cells more gently.
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Ensure Dairy and Boursin are Room Temperature
This simple trick can make a world of difference in the final texture of your Boursin mashed potatoes. Adding cold dairy products (like milk or butter) or chilled cheese directly to hot, freshly cooked potatoes can cause the fats in the dairy to seize, curdle, or fail to emulsify properly, leading to a lumpy or separated texture. To avoid this and ensure a perfectly smooth, homogenous mash, plan ahead! When you begin boiling your potatoes, take your milk and Boursin cheese out of the refrigerator. Allow them to sit on the counter to come closer to room temperature. If you’re short on time, you can gently warm the milk in a microwave for a few seconds (don’t boil it!) and pop the Boursin wheel in the microwave for just 5-10 seconds to soften it slightly. When these ingredients are at a similar temperature to the hot potatoes, they will incorporate much more smoothly and beautifully, resulting in a cohesive, perfectly creamy, and lump-free mash.
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Season Your Water (and Taste as You Go)
Don’t forget to generously salt the water when boiling your potatoes. This is your first and best opportunity to infuse flavor directly into the potatoes themselves. Think of it like cooking pasta – the water should taste distinctly salty. This initial seasoning will permeate the potatoes as they cook, building a foundational layer of flavor. Once mashed, always taste your potato mixture before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Boursin cheese is already seasoned, so you might need less added salt than usual, but a final taste test is always essential for culinary perfection and to ensure the flavors are balanced to your liking.
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Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative with Garnishes
While delicious on its own, a simple garnish can elevate your Boursin mashed potatoes even further, adding visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor. Freshly chopped chives are a classic choice, offering a vibrant green color and a mild oniony flavor that beautifully complements the garlic and herb notes of the Boursin. Other great options include fresh parsley, a sprinkle of smoked paprika for warmth, a dash of freshly ground black pepper, or a drizzle of melted brown butter for an extra layer of nutty richness. A tiny pat of butter melting on top just before serving also adds a beautiful sheen and extra indulgence.
More Delicious Side Dishes You’ll Adore
If you’re looking to round out your meal with more incredible sides, whether for a holiday spread or a quick weeknight dinner, we’ve got you covered. These recipes are tried-and-true favorites that pair wonderfully with a variety of main courses, much like our versatile Boursin mashed potatoes. Explore these options to find your next perfect side!
- Air Fryer Butternut Squash
- Whipped Sweet Potatoes
- Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
- Keto Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
- Creamy Whipped Potatoes
- Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
We’re confident you’ll adore these Boursin Mashed Potatoes as much as we do! If this recipe earns a spot in your rotation, please consider leaving us a review below and a star rating. Your feedback helps us grow! ★ And don’t forget to follow Easy Healthy Recipes on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram for more delicious meal ideas and cooking inspiration!
For even more delightful and easy-to-follow recipes, explore our sister sites: 40 Aprons and Easy Cheap Recipes. They’re packed with ideas to make your cooking journey even more enjoyable.
Boursin Mashed Potatoes: Your New Go-To Holiday Side
Sam Guarnieri
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Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes washed, peeled, and cubed into roughly 1-inch pieces for even cooking
- 1 generous pinch kosher salt plus additional to taste, for seasoning the water and potatoes
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened or melted to room temperature
- ½ cup milk of choice whole milk or half-and-half recommended for ultimate creaminess; ensure it’s at or near room temperature
- 1 5.2-ounce wheel Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese at room temperature, cut into small pieces for easier melting
- Finely chopped fresh chives optional, for a fresh garnish and added flavor
Equipment You’ll Need
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Large pot for boiling potatoes; no lid required
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Colander for draining cooked potatoes thoroughly
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Large mixing bowl for mashing and combining ingredients
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Potato masher or a potato ricer for an ultra-smooth consistency
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Small microwave-safe bowl for melting butter quickly
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Thoroughly wash and peel your chosen potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet are highly recommended for the best texture). Cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly. Place the cubed potatoes into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Add enough cold water to cover the potatoes by approximately 1 inch. Sprinkle a generous pinch of kosher salt into the water; this critical step seasons the potatoes from the inside out as they cook, building foundational flavor.
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Place the pot over medium-high heat on your stovetop. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling vigorously, reduce the heat to low and let the potatoes simmer, uncovered, for about 15-20 minutes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your potato type and size of cubes. The potatoes are ready when they can be easily pierced with a fork or the tip of a knife without any resistance, but are not falling apart. Avoid overcooking, which can lead to watery or mushy mashed potatoes.
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Carefully remove the pot from the heat. Drain the potatoes thoroughly using a colander, shaking gently to remove as much excess water as possible. It’s crucial to remove all excess moisture to prevent watery mashed potatoes. Transfer the hot, drained potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Using a potato masher, lightly mash the potatoes until most of the lumps are gone but before they become completely smooth or pasty. You want them mostly broken down at this stage, creating a base texture before adding the other creamy ingredients.
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In a small, microwave-safe bowl, place the unsalted butter. Microwave on high for approximately 30 seconds, or until the butter is fully melted. Be careful not to let it bubble vigorously or burn, as this can affect the flavor and appearance of your mashed potatoes. Ensure the Boursin cheese and milk are also at room temperature at this point.
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Add the melted butter, room temperature milk, and small, softened pieces of Boursin cheese to the mixing bowl with the lightly mashed potatoes. Resume mashing with your potato masher, or switch to a sturdy spatula or a large spoon, incorporating all the ingredients until the potato mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth. Remember the chef’s tip: avoid overworking the potatoes to prevent a gummy texture. Once fully combined, taste the mashed potatoes and add more salt (and freshly ground black pepper, if desired) to achieve your perfect seasoning.
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Transfer the creamy Boursin mashed potatoes to a warm serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish generously with freshly chopped chives if desired, which adds a beautiful vibrant color and a hint of fresh oniony zest that complements the Boursin’s flavors. Serve warm immediately and enjoy this luxurious, easy-to-make side dish!
Recipe Notes & Variations
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Make-Ahead & Reheating Tips:
These Boursin mashed potatoes can be prepared a few hours in advance, making them perfect for entertaining, especially during busy holidays. To keep them warm, transfer the finished mashed potatoes to an oven-safe dish, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and place it in an oven preheated to 200° Fahrenheit (about 93° Celsius). Periodically check the temperature with a food thermometer to ensure the potatoes remain above 140° Fahrenheit (60° Celsius) for food safety. If reheating from chilled leftovers, you can gently warm them in the microwave in small portions, on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or in the oven until heated through, stirring occasionally to maintain their luscious texture. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out.
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Dairy-Free Variation:
It’s incredibly easy to make these delicious mashed potatoes completely dairy-free! Simply substitute regular milk with your favorite unsweetened dairy-free milk alternative (almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk works wonderfully for creaminess and a neutral flavor). Replace traditional butter with a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative. Crucially, Boursin now offers a fantastic dairy-free version of their Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese, which performs beautifully in this recipe, delivering all the signature flavor without the dairy. Ensure all ingredients, including dairy-free ones, are at room temperature for the best results and a smooth consistency.
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Storage:
Store any leftover Boursin mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While they can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating; they might become a bit gummier or more watery due to changes in starch structure. If you choose to freeze them, allow them to cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently using one of the methods above, adding a little extra milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Information
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Serving Suggestions for Boursin Mashed Potatoes
These ultra-creamy Boursin mashed potatoes are a star side dish that complements a wide array of main courses. Their rich, garlicky, and herbaceous flavor makes them incredibly versatile and a perfect addition to almost any meal. Here are some ideas to inspire your next delicious pairing:
- Holiday Feasts: They are an absolute showstopper for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners. Their decadent flavor and smooth texture make them an ideal accompaniment to roasted turkey, succulent glazed ham, elegant prime rib, or a savory leg of lamb. They’ll steal the show alongside any festive main!
- Elevated Weeknight Dinners: Transform your everyday meals into something extraordinary! Serve these luxurious potatoes alongside pan-seared chicken breasts, tender roasted pork tenderloin, flaky baked salmon, or a comforting homemade meatloaf. They effortlessly add a touch of gourmet to simple dishes.
- Classic Steak Dinners: Replace traditional plain mashed potatoes with this Boursin-infused version for an incredibly indulgent and flavorful accompaniment to a perfectly cooked steak. The richness of the potatoes balances beautifully with a juicy cut of beef.
- Hearty Vegetarian Mains: These creamy potatoes pair wonderfully with robust vegetarian options such as roasted root vegetables, a savory lentil loaf, substantial mushroom-based dishes, or even alongside a fresh, crisp salad for a lighter yet satisfying meal.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Sometimes, the best way to enjoy these Boursin mashed potatoes is simply as a comforting bowl on their own. Perhaps with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of your favorite gravy, or a dollop of sour cream for added tang. They’re a treat in themselves!
No matter how you serve them, these Boursin mashed potatoes are guaranteed to bring a touch of gourmet flair, immense satisfaction, and countless compliments to any table. Enjoy the ease and exceptional flavor they bring to your culinary repertoire!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Boursin Mashed Potatoes
Got questions about making the best Boursin mashed potatoes, or how to customize and store them? We’ve got answers to help you perfect this delightful and versatile side dish, ensuring you achieve delicious results every time.
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What kind of Boursin cheese is best for mashed potatoes?
The “Garlic & Fine Herbs” variety is by far the most popular and highly recommended for its classic savory flavor profile, which includes a harmonious blend of garlic, parsley, and chives. This particular flavor melts beautifully and infuses the potatoes with a balanced, aromatic taste. However, don’t hesitate to experiment with other Boursin flavors like Black Pepper, Shallot & Chive, or even a seasonal variety if you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore different flavor dimensions.
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Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, Boursin mashed potatoes are an excellent make-ahead option, which is incredibly convenient for busy meal prep or holiday entertaining. You can prepare them a few hours in advance. To keep them warm, transfer the finished mashed potatoes to an oven-safe dish, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and place it in a low-temperature oven, ideally preheated to 200°F (93°C). Periodically check the temperature with a food thermometer to ensure the potatoes remain above 140°F (60°C) for food safety. You can also make them a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk, in the microwave, or in the oven until heated through.
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How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from becoming gummy?
Preventing gummy mashed potatoes is crucial for that desirable fluffy texture. The key is not to over-mash them! Overworking the potatoes, especially starchy varieties, releases too much starch, which leads to a gluey, unpleasant texture. Mash just until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the desired light and fluffy consistency is reached. Using a potato ricer or a sturdy hand masher (rather than an electric mixer) gives you more control and significantly reduces the risk of over-mashing. Aim for a gentle, even mashing motion.
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Can I use different types of milk?
Absolutely. While whole milk or half-and-half often provides the richest, most decadent, and creamiest results, you can certainly customize the recipe based on your preference or dietary needs. You can use skim milk for a lighter version, or unsweetened dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or oat milk, which work wonderfully for creaminess and a neutral flavor profile. Regardless of your choice, just ensure whatever milk you use is at room temperature when added to the hot potatoes to ensure smooth incorporation and prevent any undesirable textural changes.
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Are these Boursin mashed potatoes freezer-friendly?
Mashed potatoes can be frozen, but it’s important to note that their texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. They might become a bit gummier or more watery due to changes in starch structure from the freezing process. If you choose to freeze them, allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely first. Then, portion them into freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible, for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a little extra milk or butter if needed to restore their original creamy consistency.