Classic Homemade Garlic Mashed Turnips with Thyme Butter

January 15, 2025

Ready to shake up your side dish game? These Classic Homemade Garlic Mashed Turnips with Thyme Butter are creamy, dreamy, and packed with flavor! Lighter than traditional mashed potatoes, but just as comforting. Let's mash, mix, and make turnips the center of attention at your table!

5.0 out of 5 (2 ratings)

Have you ever found yourself in a side-dish rut? We've all been there. Potatoes are great, but today, I’m here to introduce you to their charming, slightly nutty cousin: the turnip! Say hello to Classic Homemade Garlic Mashed Turnips with Thyme Butter, the dish you didn’t know you needed. These creamy, dreamy turnips are not only lighter than traditional mashed potatoes but also bring a fresh twist to your table. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, this dish is guaranteed to surprise and delight. Let’s turn up the turnip game!

Classic Homemade Garlic Mashed Turnips with Thyme Butter Recipe

What makes this recipe extra special is the blend of earthy, roasted garlic with the delicate herbaceousness of fresh thyme. Turnips, when cooked and mashed, develop this buttery texture that’s just begging for bold flavors to dance on top. The thyme butter drizzle ties everything together, creating a silky, aromatic finish that feels downright luxurious. If you’re skeptical about turnips, don’t worry—this recipe tempers the mild bitterness of the vegetable with just a hint of creaminess and the savory punch from the garlic. It’s comfort food with a gourmet twist, and oh boy, is it good.

Now, before you dive in, here are a few pro tips to ensure mashed turnip magic. First, don’t skip peeling the turnips—they’ve got a thick skin that won’t break down when cooked. And when it comes to mashing, use a potato masher or immersion blender for a smooth, velvety finish. If your turnips are on the smaller side, they tend to be sweeter, so feel free to grab those from the market when you can. Finally, don’t underestimate the power of patience; allowing the turnips to drain properly after boiling ensures you avoid any watery mash. You’re aiming for creamy, not soupy!

So, are you ready to make turnips the star of your side-dish spread? These mashed turnips pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a hearty mushroom stew. For a fun twist, you can add a sprinkle of Parmesan or swap the thyme for rosemary. Any way you spin it, this dish is bound to be a hit. Go ahead, give turnips the love they deserve—you’ll wonder why they haven’t been a regular guest at your dinner table!

Keywords: garlic mashed turnips recipe, homemade mashed turnips side dish, creamy mashed turnips with herbs, mashed turnips with thyme butter, easy alternative to mashed potatoes, best mashed turnip recipe, holiday side dish recipes

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•2 lbs turnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
•2 cloves garlic, minced
•3 tablespoons unsalted butter
•1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
•1/4 cup heavy cream
•1 teaspoon salt
•1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1
Place the turnip cubes in a large pot and cover with water. Add 1 teaspoon salt to the water.
2
Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the turnips are tender when pierced with a fork.
3
While the turnips cook, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and thyme. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant but not browned, then set aside.
4
Drain the turnips and return them to the pot. Mash the turnips with a potato masher or use an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
5
Stir in the thyme butter, heavy cream, remaining salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
6
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7
Serve warm as a side dish.

Nutrition Information

Calories

120 calories per serving

Protein

Carbs

Fat

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different vegetable instead of turnips?

A: Yes, you can substitute turnips with other root vegetables like parsnips, rutabagas, or even a mix of potatoes and turnips for a milder flavor. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetable.

Q: Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?

A: Yes, dried thyme can be used as a substitute for fresh thyme. Use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead of 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor. Add it to the butter and garlic mixture as directed.

Q: How do I ensure the mashed turnips are smooth and creamy?

A: For the smoothest texture, use an immersion blender or a food processor to puree the turnips after boiling. If you're using a potato masher, mash thoroughly to break down any fibrous bits. Adding the heavy cream and butter while the turnips are still warm also helps create a creamy consistency.

Q: What should I do if the mashed turnips are too watery?

A: If the turnips are too watery, try cooking them on low heat in the pot for a few minutes after draining to evaporate excess moisture. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of cream cheese or a thickener like potato starch to improve the texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and using a non-dairy cream such as coconut cream, almond cream, or oat cream. Keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly depending on the alternatives used.

Q: What's the best way to store leftovers?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture. You may need to add a splash of cream or a small amount of butter while reheating to refresh the consistency.

Q: What are some serving suggestions for this dish?

A: This dish pairs well with roasted meats such as chicken, turkey, or pork. It also complements vegetarian mains like lentil loaf or mushroom wellington. For added texture and flavor, consider topping the mashed turnips with crispy fried shallots or toasted breadcrumbs before serving.

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