Indulge in Decadence: Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Mashed potatoes. The ultimate comfort food. A blank canvas for culinary creativity. While perfectly acceptable plain with butter, salt, and pepper, mashed potatoes yearn for a little…something extra. And that “something extra” comes in the form of Boursin cheese. Imagine the fluffiest, creamiest mashed potatoes you’ve ever had, infused with the garlic-herb deliciousness of Boursin. This isn’t your grandma’s mashed potatoes (unless your grandma is a culinary genius, in which case, kudos to her!). This is an elevated, sophisticated, yet utterly comforting side dish that will have everyone begging for seconds (and the recipe).

This Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes recipe is surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a holiday feast. Whether you’re serving it alongside roast chicken, steak, or even a hearty vegetarian dish, these mashed potatoes are guaranteed to steal the show.

Why Boursin Cheese?

Boursin cheese is a soft, creamy cheese flavored with garlic and herbs. Its unique texture melts beautifully into hot potatoes, creating a luxuriously smooth and flavorful dish. The garlic and herbs add a delightful complexity that elevates the humble mashed potato to new heights. Unlike some cheeses that can be overpowering, Boursin provides a subtle, savory flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly without being overwhelming.

Other cheeses can be used, but Boursin provides a very specific texture and herbaceous flavor that is difficult to replicate. Cream cheese will add creaminess, but not the herbal notes. Parmesan will add flavor, but not the desired smoothness. Feta might be too salty and tangy. Boursin is the gold standard here for a reason!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes is short and sweet. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the classic choice for mashed potatoes due to their high starch content, which results in a fluffy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent option, offering a slightly creamier and naturally buttery flavor. You can even use a combination of both for the best of both worlds. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they tend to become gluey when mashed.
• Boursin Cheese: The star of the show! One wheel (approximately 5.2 ounces) is perfect for this recipe. You can use any flavor of Boursin cheese, but the Garlic & Fine Herbs variety is the most common and widely available.
• Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If using salted butter, reduce the amount of salt you add later.
• Milk (or Cream): Milk adds moisture and creaminess to the potatoes. For an even richer and more decadent dish, substitute some or all of the milk with heavy cream. Half-and-half is also a good middle-ground option.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. These simple seasonings are essential for enhancing the flavors of the potatoes and Boursin cheese.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh chives, parsley, or a sprinkle of paprika add a touch of color and freshness to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide to making the most amazing Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into roughly 1-inch chunks. Cutting them into uniform sizes ensures they cook evenly.
2. Boil the Potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bringing the potatoes to a boil in salted water seasons them from the inside out. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. A fork should easily pierce through the potatoes without resistance.
3. Drain and Dry the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Return the drained potatoes to the pot and place it back on the stovetop over low heat for a minute or two. This helps to dry out the potatoes, which will prevent them from becoming watery and ensures a fluffier texture. You can gently shake the pot to distribute the potatoes. Be careful not to burn them!
4. Mash the Potatoes: Remove the pot from the heat. Add the butter and Boursin cheese to the potatoes. Let them sit for a minute to soften slightly. Then, using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. A ricer will create the smoothest possible texture, while a potato masher will leave a slightly chunkier consistency. Avoid over-mashing, as this can lead to gluey potatoes.
5. Add Milk (or Cream): Gradually add the milk (or cream), a little at a time, while continuing to mash the potatoes. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency. For extra creamy mashed potatoes, use more milk (or cream).
6. Season to Taste: Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings accordingly. Remember that Boursin cheese is already slightly salty, so you may not need as much additional salt.
7. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh chives, parsley, or a sprinkle of paprika, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes are absolutely perfect:

• Use the Right Potatoes: As mentioned earlier, Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choices for mashed potatoes.
• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become waterlogged and gluey. Cook them until they are fork-tender, but not mushy.
• Warm the Milk (or Cream): Warming the milk (or cream) before adding it to the potatoes helps to prevent them from cooling down too quickly. It also helps the potatoes absorb the liquid more evenly. You can warm it in the microwave or in a saucepan on the stovetop.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing mashed potatoes can release too much starch, resulting in a gluey texture. Mash them just until they are smooth and creamy.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasonings as you go. Salt and pepper are essential, but you can also add other herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. A pinch of nutmeg, garlic powder, or onion powder can add a subtle depth of flavor.
• Keep Warm: If you’re not serving the mashed potatoes immediately, keep them warm in a slow cooker or in a pot over very low heat. Stir them occasionally to prevent them from drying out. You can also add a little extra milk or butter to keep them moist.
• Make Ahead: Mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time. Prepare them as directed, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a little extra milk or butter to restore their creamy consistency.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to get creative with your Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes? Here are a few variations and add-ins to try:

• Roasted Garlic: Roast a head of garlic in the oven until it’s soft and sweet. Mash the roasted garlic cloves into the potatoes along with the Boursin cheese.
• Caramelized Onions: Caramelize onions in butter until they are golden brown and sweet. Stir the caramelized onions into the mashed potatoes for a savory and flavorful twist.
• Bacon: Cook bacon until crispy and crumble it over the mashed potatoes. The smoky flavor of the bacon complements the creamy potatoes and Boursin cheese perfectly.
• Chives: Add a generous amount of chopped fresh chives to the mashed potatoes for a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
• Spinach: Sauté fresh spinach in butter until it’s wilted. Chop the spinach and stir it into the mashed potatoes for added nutrients and flavor.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chop sun-dried tomatoes and stir them into the mashed potatoes for a burst of tangy flavor.
• Truffle Oil: Drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over the mashed potatoes for a decadent and luxurious touch.
• Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, to customize the flavor of the mashed potatoes.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mashed potatoes for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Roast Chicken: Serve the mashed potatoes alongside a perfectly roasted chicken for a classic and comforting meal.
• Steak: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to a juicy steak.
• Pork Chops: Pair the mashed potatoes with pan-fried or baked pork chops for a satisfying and flavorful dinner.
• Salmon: Serve the mashed potatoes with grilled or baked salmon for a healthy and delicious meal.
• Vegetarian Dishes: Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes can also be served with vegetarian dishes, such as lentil loaf, roasted vegetables, or a hearty mushroom stew.
• Holiday Meals: These mashed potatoes are a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. They’re sure to be a hit with your guests.

Recipe Card: Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes

Here’s a printable recipe card for your convenience:

Conclusion

Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes are a simple yet elegant side dish that’s sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a flavorful and comforting dish that will elevate any meal. So, the next time you’re looking for a way to jazz up your mashed potatoes, reach for a wheel of Boursin cheese and prepare to be amazed. Enjoy!

This recipe is more than just a side; it’s an experience. The creamy texture combined with the herbaceous and garlicky notes of the Boursin creates a symphony of flavors that will dance on your palate. It’s the kind of dish that evokes memories of cozy evenings and comforting meals shared with loved ones.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and add-ins to create your own signature version of this classic dish. Whether you prefer roasted garlic, caramelized onions, or crispy bacon, the possibilities are endless. So, get in the kitchen, get creative, and most importantly, have fun!

So go ahead, ditch the boring old mashed potatoes and embrace the deliciousness of Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes. Your taste buds will thank you.