Ricotta Herb Mashed Potatoes are a creamy, flavorful mash made with steamable golden potatoes, ricotta, Parmesan, butter, and Italian herbs. Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal cleanup, this easy side is ideal for busy weeknights, holiday dinners, and Thanksgiving when you want homemade mashed potatoes without the fuss.
If you’ve ever wished mashed potatoes could be a true last-minute side, these Ricotta Herb Mashed Potatoes will become a go-to. They start with steamable golden potatoes that you keep in the bag while they cook in the microwave. While the potatoes steam, you whisk together a creamy base of ricotta, Parmesan, butter, and herbs, then mash the hot potatoes directly into that mixture for big flavor and minimal effort.
The whole recipe happens in one bowl and requires no peeling or boiling. Steamable potatoes remove the need for a heavy pot, and because the potatoes are mashed while hot, they blend smoothly with the cheeses and butter for a light, fluffy texture.
Ricotta lends a delicate creaminess, while Parmesan and Italian herbs give a savory, slightly garlicky, cheesy depth that elevates simple mashed potatoes into something just a little more special. The ingredients are common pantry staples, and the result pairs well with a wide range of mains.
These mashed potatoes are an excellent accompaniment to roasted chicken, steak, pork, ham, or turkey. They’re also easy to customize—swap herbs, try different cheeses, or add mix-ins to match the meal.
What I Love About This Recipe
- Ready in about 15 minutes from start to finish with almost no prep and minimal dishes.
- Steamable potatoes mean no peeling, no boiling, and no heavy pot to clean.
- Ricotta and Parmesan make the potatoes rich and creamy with a slightly elevated flavor.
- Works equally well for weeknight dinners and holiday meals.
- Easy to customize with whatever herbs, spices, or cheeses you have on hand.
Equipment You May Need
- Microwave-safe dish or plate to support the steamable potato bag, if needed.
- Large mixing bowl for combining the ricotta base and potatoes.
- Potato masher (or sturdy fork) to mash the potatoes into the cheese mixture.
- Rubber spatula or large spoon for scraping and folding the mixture together.
- Measuring cups and spoons to measure cream, cheeses, butter, and seasonings.
Ingredients
- Steamable golden potatoes – the quick, no-peel base for this recipe.
- Heavy cream – adds richness and silky texture.
- Ricotta cheese – creates light, fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Parmesan cheese – provides salty, nutty depth.
- Unsalted butter – classic buttery flavor and smoothness.
- Dried Italian herb seasoning – an easy herby boost without chopping fresh herbs.
- Salt – to enhance all flavors.
- Black pepper – for a touch of warmth.
- Garlic powder – for gentle garlic flavor that blends evenly.
How to Make Ricotta Herb Mashed Potatoes
Step One: Steam the Potatoes
Cook the steamable golden potatoes in the microwave following the package instructions. Keep the bag closed during cooking.
Step Two: Make the Ricotta Herb Mixture
While the potatoes are steaming, combine the heavy cream, ricotta, Parmesan, softened butter, Italian herb seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a large mixing bowl. Stir until the ingredients are smooth and well blended.
Step Three: Mash and Serve
Carefully open the hot potato bag and pour the potatoes into the ricotta mixture. Use a potato masher or a sturdy fork to mash the potatoes into the mixture until you reach your desired texture. Serve immediately while hot.
(A full printable recipe card with exact measurements is included below.)
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted chicken, steak, pork chops, or meatloaf for a comforting dinner.
- Top with extra melted butter, grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of herbs for the holiday table.
- Use as the base for a shepherd’s pie-style casserole with seasoned ground meat and vegetables.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a balanced plate.
- Leftovers work well with eggs and sausage for a hearty brunch.
Quick Tips for Best Results
- Mash the potatoes while they are still very hot so they blend smoothly with the cheeses and butter.
- If the mash seems too thick, add a splash of warm cream or milk and stir until you reach the desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper after mashing, since cheeses vary in saltiness.
- For extra-smooth potatoes, mash longer or use a ricer before mixing with the ricotta base.
- Warm your serving dish so the potatoes stay hot on the table.
Ricotta Herb Mashed Potatoes FAQ
How should I store these mashed potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze them?
You can freeze ricotta-based mashed potatoes, but texture may change slightly. Reheat gently with a bit of extra cream or butter to restore creaminess.
How long do they last?
When refrigerated in an airtight container, they stay fresh for about 3 days.
Substitutions?
Red potatoes can replace golden potatoes. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or try different herb blends and cheeses. Vegetable broth or a splash of olive oil can adjust flavor and texture.
Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes—lighter cream and part-skim ricotta will work, though the mash will be less rich and slightly less creamy.
What else can I add?
Roasted garlic, fresh chives or parsley, crumbled bacon, extra Parmesan, or a drizzle of truffle oil are all tasty additions.
Can I make this vegan, vegetarian, low-carb, or gluten-free?
Vegetarian: yes, this recipe is vegetarian. Gluten-free: it’s naturally gluten-free, but check ingredient labels. Low-carb: not suitable since potatoes are the main ingredient. Vegan: you would need dairy substitutes for cream, ricotta, Parmesan, and butter—results will vary.
Enjoy these easy Ricotta Herb Mashed Potatoes! Below is the printable recipe card with full measurements and instructions for convenience.
Ricotta Herb Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 (1.5 lb) package steamable small golden potatoes
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried Italian herb seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
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Cook the steamable potatoes in the microwave according to package directions; leave the bag closed while cooking.
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While the potatoes steam, mix the heavy cream, ricotta, Parmesan, butter, Italian herb seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a large bowl until smooth.
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Carefully open the hot bag and pour the potatoes into the ricotta mixture. Use a potato masher or sturdy fork to mash and combine until you reach your preferred texture. Serve hot.
Notes
- Mash while the potatoes are very hot so they blend smoothly with the cheeses and butter.
- Adjust seasoning after mashing since cheeses vary in saltiness.
SUBSTITUTIONS:
- Use red potatoes instead of golds if preferred.
- Swap your favorite herb blend or use fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
Nutrition:
(Nutrition data provided for informational purposes only and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used.)