34 Delicious Mashed Parsnip Recipes for Comfort Cooking

Posted on November 13, 2025 by Maryann Desmond

Get ready to cozy up with the ultimate comfort food upgrade! Mashed parsnips are about to become your new favorite side dish—creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a holiday feast, these 34 delicious recipes will inspire you to ditch the same-old spuds and dive into something truly special. Let’s dig in!

Classic Mashed Parsnips with Garlic Butter

Classic Mashed Parsnips with Garlic Butter

Zesty yet refined, this classic mashed parsnips recipe transforms the humble root vegetable into an elegant side dish worthy of any holiday table. With creamy texture and subtle sweetness enhanced by aromatic garlic butter, this comforting preparation brings sophisticated flavor to familiar comfort food. The gentle earthiness of parsnips pairs beautifully with roasted meats or stands alone as a vegetarian centerpiece.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds parsnips
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Peel 2 pounds parsnips and cut into 1-inch chunks of uniform size for even cooking.
  2. Place parsnip chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
  3. Bring water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for 15-18 minutes until parsnips are fork-tender.
  4. While parsnips cook, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
  5. Mince 3 cloves garlic and add to melted butter, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  6. Stir 1/2 cup heavy cream into the garlic butter and heat until warm, about 2 minutes.
  7. Drain cooked parsnips thoroughly in a colander, then return to the hot pot for 1 minute to evaporate excess moisture.
  8. Transfer parsnips to a large bowl and mash with a potato masher until smooth.
  9. Gradually pour the warm garlic cream mixture into the mashed parsnips while stirring continuously.
  10. Add 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, then whip with a wooden spoon until light and fluffy.

Silky smooth with a delicate sweetness that balances the savory garlic butter, these mashed parsnips offer sophisticated comfort. The creamy texture holds beautifully when piped into elegant swirls or served rustic-style in a warm bowl. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh thyme leaves and a drizzle of browned butter just before serving.

Parsnip and Apple Mash with Cinnamon

Parsnip and Apple Mash with Cinnamon
Just when autumn’s crisp air settles in, this sophisticated mash emerges as the perfect bridge between earthy comfort and bright seasonal flavors. Juxtaposing the sweet-tart complexity of apples with parsnip’s nutty earthiness creates a side dish that elevates any fall table with its aromatic warmth and velvety texture.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds parsnips
– 2 large Granny Smith apples
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

Instructions

1. Peel 2 pounds of parsnips and cut them into 1-inch chunks.
2. Peel and core 2 large Granny Smith apples, then cut them into 1-inch pieces.
3. Place the parsnips and apples in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
4. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-18 minutes until both vegetables and fruit are fork-tender.
5. Drain the parsnips and apples thoroughly in a colander, shaking to remove excess moisture.
6. Return the drained mixture to the warm pot and mash with a potato masher until smooth.
7. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and continue mashing until fully incorporated.
8. Warm 1/2 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
9. Gradually pour the warm cream into the mash while stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
10. Stir in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt until completely blended.
11. For optimal creaminess, pass the mash through a fine-mesh sieve using a rubber spatula.
12. Transfer to a serving bowl and keep warm until ready to serve.
Overachieving in both texture and flavor, this mash delivers a luxurious silkiness that clings beautifully to each bite. The cinnamon’s warmth plays gracefully against the maple-kissed apples, while the parsnips provide a substantial foundation that makes this equally stunning alongside roasted poultry or as an unexpected bed for seared scallops.

Cheesy Mashed Parsnips with Chives

Cheesy Mashed Parsnips with Chives
Zesty yet sophisticated, this creamy parsnip preparation transforms the humble root vegetable into an elegant side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or holiday feasts. With its velvety texture and subtle sweetness balanced by sharp cheddar and fresh chives, this recipe elevates comfort food to gourmet status. Perfect for entertaining or elevating weeknight dinners, these cheesy mashed parsnips offer both simplicity and impressive flavor.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds parsnips
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Peel 2 pounds of parsnips and cut them into 1-inch chunks.
2. Place parsnip chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
3. Bring water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for 15-18 minutes until parsnips are fork-tender.
4. Drain parsnips thoroughly in a colander, then return them to the warm pot to evaporate excess moisture.
5. Add 4 tablespoons unsalted butter and 1/2 cup heavy cream to the hot parsnips.
6. Mash the mixture with a potato masher until smooth and creamy, being careful not to overwork the texture.
7. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
8. Fold in 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives, reserving 1 tablespoon for garnish.
9. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, mixing thoroughly to distribute evenly.
10. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with remaining chives before serving warm.

A luxurious velvety texture embraces the natural sweetness of parsnips, while sharp cheddar provides a tangy counterpoint that prevents the dish from becoming cloying. The fresh chives contribute both visual appeal and a subtle onion flavor that cuts through the richness, making this side dish sophisticated enough for holiday tables yet comforting for family dinners. For an elegant presentation, pipe the mashed parsnips using a star tip or serve in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled until golden.

Creamy Parsnip and Potato Mash

Creamy Parsnip and Potato Mash
Creamy, comforting, and sophisticated, this parsnip and potato mash transforms humble root vegetables into an elegant side dish worthy of any special occasion. Combining the earthy sweetness of parsnips with the familiar comfort of potatoes creates a nuanced flavor profile that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or stands proudly on its own. The velvety texture and subtle herbal notes make this dish a memorable addition to your autumn table.

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Ingredients

– 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
– 1 pound parsnips
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Instructions

1. Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
2. Peel the parsnips and cut them into 1-inch pieces, discarding the tough core if present.
3. Place the potatoes and parsnips in a large pot and cover with cold water by 2 inches.
4. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 18-20 minutes until both vegetables are fork-tender.
5. Drain the vegetables thoroughly in a colander, then return them to the warm pot for 2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
6. Heat the heavy cream and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture is warm, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Pass the drained vegetables through a ricer or food mill into a large bowl for the smoothest texture.
8. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the mashed vegetables while stirring constantly.
9. Add the kosher salt, black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg, folding gently to incorporate.
10. Continue stirring until the mash reaches a perfectly smooth, creamy consistency, about 1-2 minutes.

Heavenly in its velvety smoothness, this mash offers a delicate balance of earthy parsnip and buttery potato with just a whisper of nutmeg warmth. The pale ivory color and cloud-like texture make it particularly elegant when served in a warmed ceramic bowl, garnished with a drizzle of browned butter and fresh chives. For a stunning presentation, consider piping it into individual servings or swirling it with a spoon to create beautiful peaks that catch the light.

Parsnip Mash with Goat Cheese and Herbs

Parsnip Mash with Goat Cheese and Herbs
Nestled between the familiar comfort of mashed potatoes and the earthy sophistication of root vegetables, this parsnip mash offers a delightful culinary surprise. Its creamy texture, enriched with tangy goat cheese and aromatic herbs, transforms the humble parsnip into an elegant side dish worthy of any special occasion. The subtle sweetness of the roasted roots balances beautifully with the bright, herbal notes for a truly memorable experience.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds parsnips
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 ounces goat cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel 2 pounds of parsnips and cut them into 1-inch chunks of uniform size for even cooking.
3. Arrange the parsnip chunks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast the parsnips for 25-30 minutes until they are fork-tender and lightly caramelized at the edges.
5. Transfer the hot roasted parsnips to a large mixing bowl and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
6. Pour 1/2 cup of heavy cream over the parsnips while they are still warm to help them absorb the liquid better.
7. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
8. Crumble 4 ounces of goat cheese into the warm mash and stir gently until incorporated.
9. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme leaves and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary.
10. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, then stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving warm.
Unbelievably velvety in texture, this mash boasts a complex flavor profile where the natural sweetness of parsnips mingles with the tangy goat cheese and fragrant herbs. The creamy consistency makes it an excellent base for roasted meats or as an elegant bed for seared scallops. For a stunning presentation, garnish with additional thyme sprigs and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving.

Mashed Parsnips with Honey and Thyme

Mashed Parsnips with Honey and Thyme
Yet another autumn evening calls for comfort food that transcends the ordinary—enter these velvety mashed parsnips, sweetened with golden honey and fragrant with earthy thyme. This elegant side dish transforms humble root vegetables into a sophisticated accompaniment worthy of any holiday table or cozy weeknight dinner. Your kitchen will fill with the warm, aromatic scent of roasting parsnips and fresh herbs as you create this simple yet impressive recipe.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds parsnips
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel 2 pounds of parsnips and cut them into 1-inch chunks of uniform size for even cooking.
3. Arrange the parsnip chunks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast the parsnips for 25-30 minutes until they are fork-tender and lightly caramelized at the edges.
5. Transfer the hot roasted parsnips to a food processor or large mixing bowl if using a hand mixer.
6. Add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves to the parsnips.
7. Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream while the ingredients are still warm to help them incorporate smoothly.
8. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
9. Process or mash the mixture until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then transfer to a serving dish.
Elevating the humble parsnip to new heights, this silky puree boasts a delicate sweetness from the honey that perfectly balances the vegetable’s earthy notes. The fresh thyme adds an aromatic complexity that makes this dish equally suited for elegant dinner parties or simple family meals. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or pork, or use it as a sophisticated base for grilled vegetables.

Truffled Parsnip Mash

Truffled Parsnip Mash
Heralding the earthy elegance of autumn, this truffled parsnip mash transforms humble root vegetables into a sophisticated side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or stands proudly as the centerpiece of a vegetarian feast. Its creamy texture and complex flavor profile elevate any dinner table with understated luxury.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds parsnips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons white truffle oil
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Peel 2 pounds of parsnips and cut them into 1-inch chunks of uniform size for even cooking.
2. Place the parsnip chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by 2 inches.
3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the parsnips are fork-tender.
4. Drain the parsnips thoroughly in a colander, then return them to the warm pot for 2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
5. Heat 1/2 cup heavy cream and 4 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture is warm to the touch.
6. Transfer the drained parsnips to a food processor and pulse until broken down into coarse pieces.
7. With the processor running, slowly stream in the warm cream-butter mixture until fully incorporated.
8. Add 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, then process for 1 minute until completely smooth.
9. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons white truffle oil and pulse just 3-4 times to distribute the flavor without overheating the delicate oil.
10. Transfer the mash to a serving bowl and serve immediately while warm. Luxuriously smooth with the earthy sweetness of parsnips perfectly balanced by the aromatic depth of truffle, this elegant puree maintains a velvety texture that complements both rustic and refined dishes. Consider serving it alongside herb-roasted chicken or as an unexpected base for seared scallops to highlight its sophisticated flavor profile.

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Spiced Mashed Parsnips with Nutmeg

Spiced Mashed Parsnips with Nutmeg
Yielding to autumn’s crisp embrace, this elegant side dish transforms humble parsnips into a velvety, aromatic puree that comforts the soul. Their natural sweetness deepens beautifully when roasted, creating a sophisticated foundation for warm spices to dance upon. With just a few thoughtful touches, you’ll craft a side that feels both rustic and refined, perfect for holiday tables or cozy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds parsnips
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel 2 pounds of parsnips and cut them into 1-inch chunks of uniform size for even roasting.
3. Arrange the parsnip chunks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast the parsnips for 25-30 minutes until they are fork-tender and develop golden edges.
5. Transfer the hot roasted parsnips to a food processor while still warm for easiest blending.
6. Add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the food processor with the parsnips.
7. Heat 1/2 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Pour the warm cream into the food processor with the other ingredients.
9. Add 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
10. Process the mixture for 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides once, until completely smooth and creamy.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, keeping in mind flavors will meld as it rests.

Silken in texture with a delicate sweetness that balances the nutmeg’s warmth, this mash offers sophisticated comfort. Serve it alongside roasted meats or as an elegant base for seared scallops, where its creamy consistency provides beautiful contrast to crispy textures. The subtle spice notes make it particularly welcoming during cooler months, inviting second helpings with its harmonious blend of earthy and aromatic flavors.

Parsnip Mash with Caramelized Onions

Parsnip Mash with Caramelized Onions
Smooth, creamy, and subtly sweet, this elegant parsnip mash offers a sophisticated twist on traditional mashed potatoes, elevated by the rich depth of slowly caramelized onions that melt into the velvety texture. The humble parsnip transforms into something truly extraordinary when paired with the savory sweetness of properly browned onions, creating a side dish that complements everything from holiday roasts to weeknight chicken. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with approachable techniques that highlight the natural flavors of these winter vegetables.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds parsnips
– 2 large yellow onions
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Peel 2 pounds of parsnips and cut them into 1-inch chunks.
2. Place parsnip chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
3. Bring water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until parsnips are fork-tender.
4. While parsnips cook, thinly slice 2 large yellow onions into half-moons.
5. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add sliced onions to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking onions for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until they turn deep golden brown.
8. Drain cooked parsnips thoroughly and return them to the warm pot.
9. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to the parsnips.
10. Mash the parsnip mixture with a potato masher until smooth and creamy.
11. Fold the caramelized onions into the mashed parsnips until evenly distributed.
12. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving warm. You’ll notice the mash develops an exceptionally creamy texture when mashed while still hot, as the steam helps incorporate the butter and cream. The onions achieve perfect caramelization when cooked slowly over medium-low heat, developing complex sweetness without burning. Draining the parsnips thoroughly prevents a watery mash and ensures proper absorption of the cream and butter. Your finished dish will showcase a velvety texture with sweet earthy notes from the parsnips, beautifully balanced by the savory depth of caramelized onions. Consider serving this elegant mash alongside roasted meats or as a sophisticated base for grilled vegetables, where its creamy richness complements both simple and complex main courses.

Mashed Parsnips with Bacon and Sage

Mashed Parsnips with Bacon and Sage
Humble parsnips transform into an extraordinary side dish when paired with smoky bacon and earthy sage. This elegant mash offers a sophisticated twist on traditional potatoes, with natural sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements. The combination creates a comforting yet refined accompaniment worthy of any special occasion.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds parsnips
– 4 slices thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Peel 2 pounds of parsnips and cut them into 1-inch chunks.
2. Place parsnip chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
3. Bring water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-18 minutes until parsnips are fork-tender.
4. While parsnips cook, dice 4 slices of thick-cut bacon into 1/4-inch pieces.
5. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until crisp, then transfer to paper towels using a slotted spoon.
6. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet and discard the remainder.
7. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh sage leaves to the skillet and fry for 45-60 seconds until crisp but not browned.
8. Drain cooked parsnips thoroughly and return them to the warm pot.
9. Mash parsnips with a potato masher until smooth.
10. Heat 1/4 cup heavy cream and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small saucepan until butter melts.
11. Gradually incorporate the warm cream mixture into the mashed parsnips, stirring until fully combined.
12. Fold in the crisp bacon and fried sage leaves.
13. Season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, mixing thoroughly.
14. Serve immediately while warm.

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Exquisitely creamy with subtle sweet notes, this mash features delightful textural contrasts from the crisp bacon and fried sage. The velvety smoothness makes it an ideal pairing for roasted meats, while the savory elements elevate it beyond ordinary vegetable sides. Consider serving it in individual ramekins topped with extra sage leaves for an elegant presentation at your next dinner party.

Garlic and Herb Mashed Parsnips

Garlic and Herb Mashed Parsnips
There’s something quietly luxurious about transforming the humble parsnip into a velvety, aromatic side dish that elevates any autumn table. This garlic and herb mashed parsnips recipe delivers a sophisticated twist on classic comfort food, with earthy sweetness balanced by fragrant herbs and roasted garlic. The result is a side dish that feels both familiar and elegantly refined.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds parsnips
– 4 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the 4 cloves of garlic on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and lightly golden.
3. While the garlic roasts, peel the 2 pounds of parsnips and cut them into 1-inch chunks for even cooking.
4. Place the parsnip chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
5. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-18 minutes, until the parsnips are fork-tender.
6. Drain the parsnips thoroughly in a colander, then return them to the warm pot to evaporate any remaining moisture.
7. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins into the pot with the parsnips.
8. Add the 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to the pot.
9. Use a potato masher to blend the ingredients until smooth, being careful not to overmix as this can make the texture gummy.
10. For an extra silky texture, transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse 3-4 times until completely smooth.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then transfer to a serving bowl.

Heavenly in both texture and flavor, these mashed parsnips achieve a creamy consistency that melts on the tongue while the roasted garlic provides subtle sweetness against the earthy parsnip base. The fresh herbs lend aromatic complexity that makes this dish sophisticated enough for holiday tables yet comforting for weeknight dinners. Consider serving alongside roasted meats or as an elegant base for braised short ribs, where their creamy texture beautifully absorbs rich sauces.

Parsnip and Leek Mash with Parmesan

Parsnip and Leek Mash with Parmesan
Tender parsnips and delicate leeks unite in this sophisticated mash, where earthy sweetness meets savory depth beneath a blanket of nutty Parmesan. This elegant side dish transforms humble root vegetables into a creamy, luxurious accompaniment worthy of any special occasion. With its velvety texture and complex flavor profile, it offers a refined alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that will impress even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds parsnips
– 2 large leeks
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups water

Instructions

1. Peel the parsnips and cut them into 1-inch chunks.
2. Trim the leeks, slice them lengthwise, and rinse thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt trapped between layers.
3. Thinly slice the cleaned leeks crosswise.
4. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
5. Add the sliced leeks and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent but not browned.
6. Add the parsnip chunks and 2 cups of water to the saucepan with the leeks.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a simmer.
8. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the parsnips are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
9. Drain the parsnips and leeks thoroughly in a colander, pressing gently to remove excess liquid.
10. Transfer the drained vegetables to a large mixing bowl.
11. Heat the heavy cream and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter melts and the cream is warm.
12. Pour the warm cream mixture over the vegetables.
13. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
14. Mash the mixture with a potato masher until smooth and creamy, being careful not to overwork it.
15. For an extra silky texture, pass the mash through a fine-mesh sieve using a spatula.
16. Transfer the finished mash to a serving bowl and serve immediately.

The resulting mash boasts an exceptionally creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the subtle stringiness of melted Parmesan. Earthy parsnip notes are perfectly balanced by the gentle onion essence of leeks, creating a sophisticated flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can stand alone as a vegetarian centerpiece. Consider topping with crispy fried leek ribbons or serving alongside seared scallops for an elegant presentation.

Conclusion

Zesty, comforting, and endlessly versatile—these mashed parsnip recipes prove that humble ingredients can create extraordinary meals. Whether you’re craving classic comfort or bold new flavors, there’s something here for every home cook. Pick your favorite, give it a try, and let us know which one you loved most in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest to spread the cozy cooking inspiration.

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