Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Butter

Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Butter are an indulgent, elevated take on a beloved classic. Creamy, velvety potatoes are enriched with the luxurious texture of mascarpone cheese, while a drizzle of golden, aromatic rosemary butter adds a fragrant, savory finish. This dish is a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, ideal for holiday feasts, dinner parties, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.

I first made these mashed potatoes as a way to bring a gourmet touch to a family gathering, and they quickly became the star of the table. The mascarpone cheese creates an ultra-smooth texture and subtle richness, while the rosemary butter infuses each bite with a warm, earthy aroma. The combination of the creamy potatoes and the herbaceous butter is both comforting and elegant, making it a dish that pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to grilled vegetables.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—you can keep it simple, let the rosemary butter shine, or experiment by adding garlic, Parmesan, or even a hint of lemon zest for brightness. Whether as a side dish or a standalone indulgence, these Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Butter are guaranteed to be a hit.

Perfect for:

Holiday dinners
Dinner parties
Comfort food cravings
Thanksgiving or Christmas
Impressing your guests

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Butter recipe will become your go-to side dish:

Ultra Creamy Texture: Mascarpone cheese creates a luscious, silky smooth consistency.
Rich and Decadent Flavor: The addition of mascarpone elevates the taste beyond regular mashed potatoes.
Aromatic Rosemary Butter: Infuses the dish with a warm, herbal fragrance.
Simple Yet Elegant: Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions.
Perfect Pairing: Complements roasted meats, poultry, and vegetarian mains beautifully.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and reheated without losing its creamy texture.
Customizable: Adjust the seasoning or swap out rosemary for thyme or sage.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Works for casual meals or formal dinners.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free and suitable for a variety of dietary needs.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 45 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Rosemary Butter:

1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

Yukon Gold Potatoes: Naturally buttery and creamy, perfect for mashing.
Mascarpone Cheese: Adds a velvety richness without overpowering flavors.
Fresh Rosemary: Provides a woodsy, aromatic touch to the butter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

Boil Potatoes: Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with a potato masher or ricer until smooth.
Mix in Cream and Mascarpone: Stir in mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, and butter until fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Make the Rosemary Butter:

Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Infuse with Rosemary: Add rosemary sprigs and minced garlic (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat. Discard rosemary sprigs before serving.

Assemble and Serve:

Combine and Garnish: Drizzle the rosemary butter over the mashed potatoes and gently stir to combine. Garnish with additional rosemary leaves if desired.
Serve Hot: Serve immediately as a side dish.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Butter:

Alongside Roasted Turkey: A classic pairing for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
With Grilled Steak: Complements the rich, smoky flavor of a perfectly cooked steak.
With Braised Lamb: The herbal notes of rosemary pair beautifully with lamb.
As a Comfort Food Bowl: Top with sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions.
With Roasted Vegetables: Balances the natural sweetness of roasted carrots, parsnips, or squash.
For Potluck Dinners: A crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings.
Topped with Crispy Beef Bacon: Add a savory, crunchy twist.
Paired with Salmon: Complements the rich, buttery flavor of the fish.
With a Vegetarian Entrée: Perfect alongside a lentil loaf or stuffed bell peppers.
On Its Own: Enjoy as a comforting, indulgent treat.

Additional Tips

Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for a fluffy and creamy texture.
Room Temperature Mascarpone: Allow mascarpone to come to room temperature before mixing to ensure it blends smoothly.
Infuse the Butter: Simmer the rosemary in butter on low heat for a few minutes to fully release its aroma and flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing mashed potatoes can make them gluey; mash gently for a creamy consistency.
Warm the Milk: Heat the milk or cream before adding it to the potatoes for easier blending and a silky finish.
Season in Layers: Add salt to the boiling water, the potatoes, and the finished dish to build flavor throughout.
Make Ahead Option: Prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat gently in a double boiler or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Add Texture: Garnish with crispy fried rosemary leaves or toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
Custom Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, sage, or parsley for a unique flavor profile.
Pair It Perfectly: Serve alongside roasted meats, braised dishes, or even a simple vegetable medley for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Add grated Parmesan cheese for a nutty, savory twist.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast garlic and mash it into the potatoes for extra depth.
Truffle Mashed Potatoes: Drizzle with truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Mix in chopped parsley, chives, or thyme.
Spicy Mashed Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for heat.
Vegan Mashed Potatoes: Use coconut cream and vegan butter instead of dairy.
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese.
Beef Bacon Mashed Potatoes: Fold in crumbled crispy beef bacon for added texture and flavor.
Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes: Substitute sour cream for a tangy kick.
Horseradish Mashed Potatoes: Add a dollop of horseradish for a zesty flavor boost.

Special Equipment

Potato Masher or Ricer – For achieving smooth and creamy mashed potatoes.
Heavy-Duty Saucepan – Ideal for cooking potatoes evenly without sticking.
Fine Mesh Strainer – To drain potatoes thoroughly before mashing.
Whisk – For blending the mascarpone and butter seamlessly.
Mortar and Pestle – To crush fresh rosemary for enhanced flavor.
Heatproof Spatula – Useful for scraping and mixing in the saucepan.
Immersion Blender – Optional, for ultra-smooth mashed potatoes.
Butter Warmer – To gently melt butter with rosemary without scorching.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – For precise ingredient proportions.
Serving Dish with Lid – To keep mashed potatoes warm before serving.

FAQ Section

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, but Yukon Gold or Russets yield the creamiest texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat with additional cream.
What can I use instead of mascarpone?
Cream cheese or sour cream are good substitutes, though the flavor will vary slightly.
How do I prevent potatoes from becoming gummy?
Avoid overmixing and use a masher or ricer instead of a food processor.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients. Use a larger pot for boiling.
Is rosemary necessary?
No, you can substitute other herbs like thyme or sage.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Gently warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use non-dairy cream and butter alternatives.

Conclusion

These Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Butter are a luxurious twist on a beloved classic. Creamy and velvety, the addition of mascarpone cheese adds a rich, tangy depth, while the rosemary-infused butter lends a fragrant, herbaceous note. Perfect as a side dish for a holiday feast, a comforting family dinner, or any occasion that calls for an elevated touch, these mashed potatoes are a crowd-pleasing favorite that pairs beautifully with just about any main course.

This recipe is both indulgent and versatile. Adjust the rosemary for a subtler flavor or add roasted garlic for an extra layer of savory goodness. The mascarpone makes the potatoes irresistibly creamy without being overly heavy, creating a balanced dish that’s satisfying yet light. Serve them alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even on their own for a decadent treat.

I’d love to see your Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes with Rosemary Butter creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to admire your culinary artistry. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share any special touches or unique ingredients you used to make these mashed potatoes truly unforgettable!