There’s something truly comforting about the creamy texture of mashed turnips—a delightful twist on the classic dish that promises to surprise and please your taste buds. I first discovered this mashed turnips recipe during a cozy dinner gathering, where a friend brought a bowl that was so rich and flavorful, I couldn’t resist going back for seconds (okay, maybe thirds!). The blend of herbs and garlic elevates the humble turnip, transforming it into a dish that feels both elegant and heartwarming.
Perfect for a holiday meal or simply a comforting weeknight dinner, this turnip puree is as versatile as it is easy to prepare. Whether you’re craving something different from potato mash or looking to impress guests with a unique side, you’ll find that this recipe ticks all the boxes. With the addition of cream cheese and shredded cheese, each bite promises a velvety richness that pairs perfectly with your favorite mains. So grab those turnips and let’s get cooking!
Why is this Mashed Turnips Recipe so special?
Creaminess: The addition of cream cheese and heavy whipping cream creates a luscious, velvety texture that elevates traditional mashed sides.
Herb-Infused Flavor: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme bring an aromatic touch that enhances the simple turnips.
Unique Twist: Swap out typical potato mash for this tasty alternative, impressing family and friends with something unexpected.
Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this satisfying dish without fuss—perfect for busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe harmonizes with a variety of main courses, making it a versatile choice for any gathering.
Elevated Comfort: Whether for a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this creamy mash is sure to bring warmth to your table.
Try it out, and your taste buds will thank you!
Mashed Turnips Recipe Ingredients
For the Puree
• Turnips – 2 pounds of small turnips give this dish a naturally sweet and earthy flavor.
• Water – 2 cups of water are needed to boil the turnips until they’re tender and ready to blend.
• Unsalted Butter – 6 tablespoons of melted butter provide richness and a silky mouthfeel.
• Yellow Onion – 1 medium onion, diced, adds a sweet and savory layer to the puree.
• Mixed Fresh Herbs – 2 tablespoons of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
• Garlic – 3 cloves of minced garlic bring a delightful aromatic depth to the puree.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – 2 ounces for an extra creamy texture.
• Cream Cheese – 6 ounces of full-fat cream cheese creates that velvety richness in your mashed turnips.
• Shredded Cheese – 5 ounces of shredded cheese adds a delightful stretch and flavor.
• Kosher Salt – 1 teaspoon to taste, ensuring all flavors come through.
• Ground Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon (or to taste) adds a hint of warmth and spice.
• Butter and Herbs – A final sprinkle for garnishing adds a beautiful presentation touch.
Feel inspired and try out this mashed turnips recipe that’s destined to become a family favorite!
How to Make Mashed Turnips Recipe
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Boil Turnips: Place the peeled and chopped turnips into a stock pot or pressure cooker with 2 cups of salted water. Cook until they’re tender, about 15-20 minutes; then drain any excess water and set them aside.
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Sauté Onions: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion with a pinch of salt and cook until soft and translucent, roughly 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and fresh herbs, and cook for an additional minute before removing from heat.
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Blend the Base: In a blender, combine the cooked turnips and 2 ounces of heavy whipping cream. Blend until you achieve a smooth texture. Then, add the remaining butter and 6 ounces of cream cheese. Blend again until fully incorporated.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs along with 5 ounces of shredded cheese into the blender. Blend until everything is mixed perfectly. Taste the puree, and season with kosher salt and black pepper, blending once more to combine flavors.
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Serve: Transfer the creamy mashed turnips to a serving bowl and garnish them with extra butter and fresh herbs. Pair this delectable dish with your favorite main course for a comforting meal.
Optional: Drizzle with a little olive oil for an added flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Mashed Turnips Recipe
- Choose Fresh Turnips: Opt for small, firm turnips without blemishes for the best flavor and texture. Older turnips can be tougher and more bitter.
- Don’t Overboil: Boil turnips until they’re just tender; overcooking can lead to a watery puree. Aim for 15-20 minutes to maintain flavor.
- Perfectly Creamy: Gradually blend in cream cheese and heavy whipping cream to control consistency, preventing an overly runny mashed turnip mix.
- Herb Balance: Use a variety of fresh herbs but avoid overpowering the dish. A well-measured mix brings out the best in your mashed turnips recipe.
- Taste As You Go: Always taste the puree before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to ensure a well-seasoned flavor without overpowering.
Mashed Turnips Recipe Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists on your mashed turnips for an exciting culinary adventure!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream for a fully dairy-free version. You’ll still enjoy that creamy texture minus the dairy!
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Herb Explosion: Mix in a tablespoon of fresh dill or parsley for an herbaceous lift that brightens every bite. It adds a refreshing touch that pairs beautifully with the earthy turnips.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty heat. This adds a delightful warmth to contrast the smoothness of the dish.
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of tahini or nutritional yeast for a nutty, umami boost. This twist enhances the flavor profile while keeping the dish rich and satisfying.
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Loaded Style: Top your mashed turnips with crumbled bacon and chives for a loaded-style treat. The crispy texture and smoky flavor elevate each spoonful to mouthwatering heights!
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Truffle Essence: Drizzle with truffle oil before serving for an indulgent, gourmet experience. This luxurious addition transforms the dish into a restaurant-worthy delight.
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Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or sharp cheddar for distinctive flavor. Each cheese will lend its unique profile, making the mash even more intriguing.
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Citrus Zing: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to brighten the flavors. The zest provides a fresh, aromatic note that complements the richness of the mashed turnips beautifully.
What to Serve with Mashed Turnips Recipe?
Imagine a cozy table set for friends and family, where every bite harmonizes beautifully and leaves everyone wanting to know your secret ingredient.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the mashed turnips, creating a delicious contrast.
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Roasted Salmon: The rich flavors of roasted salmon offer a wonderful balance, while the creamy mash enhances the dish’s overall elegance.
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Braised Beef: Tender, melt-in-your-mouth braised beef adds heartiness, making this combination a true comfort food delight during chilly evenings.
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Sautéed Greens: Freshly sautéed spinach or kale brings a bright, vibrant element that cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing touch to your plate.
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Herb-Infused Bread: A warm, crusty herb bread is ideal for scooping up that luscious puree, making every mouthful feel indulgent and satisfying.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce brings a delightful contrast to the creaminess, balancing flavors and adding a festive twist for special occasions.
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Sparkling Water: A chilled sparkling water with a slice of lemon provides a refreshing palate cleanser, keeping the meal light and invigorating.
Each of these options complements the mashed turnips recipe beautifully, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!
How to Store and Freeze Mashed Turnips Recipe
Fridge: Store leftover mashed turnips in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their creamy texture and flavor.
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled mashed turnips in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring to remove excess air. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen mashed turnips in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
Quality Check: When storing, make sure the turnips cool completely before sealing. Proper storage keeps this mashed turnips recipe delicious and ready for your next meal!
Make Ahead Options
These mashed turnips recipe is a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can easily boil and mash the turnips up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a smoother cooking process when it’s time to serve. Simply prepare the puree and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, sauté the onions and garlic ahead of time, and refrigerate them alongside the turnip mixture. When you’re ready to serve, reheat everything on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring in the cream cheese and shredded cheese until perfectly combined. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish with minimal effort!
Mashed Turnips Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right turnips for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting turnips, look for small, firm ones without dark spots or blemishes. Fresh turnips should feel heavy for their size and have smooth skin. Avoid those that are soft or have cracks, as they might have a bitter taste.
How should I store leftover mashed turnips?
You can store leftover mashed turnips in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the puree is completely cooled before sealing it to preserve its creamy texture and flavor.
Can I freeze mashed turnips?
Definitely! To freeze mashed turnips, let them cool completely, then transfer them into a freezer-safe container or bag. Be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. This is a great way to enjoy them later!
What should I do if my mashed turnips are too watery?
If you find your mashed turnips are too watery, don’t worry! You can return them to the heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until some of the moisture evaporates. Alternatively, mixing in a little more cream cheese or a handful of shredded cheese can help thicken the mixture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! This mashed turnips recipe contains dairy, so if you’re cooking for someone with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, you can substitute heavy whipping cream and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and cashew cream. Always check for personal allergies when serving.
How do I reheat frozen mashed turnips?
To reheat frozen mashed turnips, first, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, place them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently. If they seem too thick, add a splash of cream or milk to restore their creamy consistency. Stir continually until warmed through, and enjoy!
Creamy Mashed Turnips Recipe You'll Adore This Winter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the peeled and chopped turnips into a stock pot or pressure cooker with 2 cups of salted water. Cook until they're tender, about 15-20 minutes; then drain any excess water and set them aside.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion with a pinch of salt and cook until soft and translucent, roughly 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and fresh herbs, and cook for an additional minute before removing from heat.
- In a blender, combine the cooked turnips and 2 ounces of heavy whipping cream. Blend until you achieve a smooth texture. Then, add the remaining butter and 6 ounces of cream cheese. Blend again until fully incorporated.
- Add the sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs along with 5 ounces of shredded cheese into the blender. Blend until everything is mixed perfectly. Taste the puree, and season with kosher salt and black pepper, blending once more to combine flavors.
- Transfer the creamy mashed turnips to a serving bowl and garnish them with extra butter and fresh herbs. Pair this delectable dish with your favorite main course for a comforting meal.