Creamy Spinach Parmesan Mashed (Printable)

Velvety potatoes folded with spinach, cream, and Parmesan for a rich, smooth side perfect for any meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Potatoes

01 - 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

→ Dairy

02 - 4 tbsp unsalted butter
03 - 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
04 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

→ Vegetables

05 - 4 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Seasonings

07 - 1/2 tsp salt, plus additional to taste
08 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
09 - Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–18 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
02 - While potatoes cook, heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add chopped spinach and cook, stirring, until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
03 - Drain potatoes thoroughly and return to the pot. Add remaining butter and mash until smooth and creamy.
04 - Stir in the warmed heavy cream, grated Parmesan, sautéed spinach with garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined and creamy.
05 - Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The spinach adds color and a subtle earthiness without overpowering the creamy potatoes.
  • Its rich enough to feel indulgent but light enough to serve alongside nearly anything.
  • You can make it in under an hour with ingredients you probably already have.
02 -
  • Always warm your cream before adding it—cold cream will cool down your mash and make it harder to get that velvety texture.
  • Dont skip draining the potatoes thoroughly, or you will end up with a watery, loose mash instead of a creamy one.
03 -
  • Use a potato ricer instead of a masher for the smoothest, most luxurious texture—it eliminates every lump.
  • Grate your Parmesan just before adding it so it melts seamlessly and releases all its nutty flavor.
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