18 Creamy Mashed Rutabaga Recipes Delicious

Looking for a way to add a creamy, comforting twist to your meals? Rutabaga, the unsung hero of root vegetables, shines in these 18 mashed recipes that promise to delight your taste buds. Perfect for cozy nights in or as a standout side at your next gathering, these dishes are sure to inspire. Dive in and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this versatile veggie!

Garlic Butter Mashed Rutabaga

Just when you thought mashed potatoes were the ultimate comfort food, garlic butter mashed rutabaga steps in to steal the show. This dish brings a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of garlic butter.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 1 tsp salt, finely ground
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabagas in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 20 minutes, or until rutabagas are fork-tender.
3. Drain rutabagas well and return to the pot. Tip: Let them sit for a minute to evaporate excess moisture.
4. Add softened butter and minced garlic to the pot. Mash until butter is melted and garlic is fragrant.
5. Gradually pour in warmed heavy cream while continuing to mash. Tip: Warm cream prevents the dish from cooling too quickly.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Mash until desired consistency is reached. Tip: For smoother texture, use a hand mixer.

Fluffy and rich, this garlic butter mashed rutabaga offers a delightful twist on a classic side. Serve it alongside roasted meats or as a standalone dish garnished with fresh herbs.

Creamy Parmesan Mashed Rutabaga

Here’s a twist on classic mashed potatoes that’s lower in carbs but high in flavor. Creamy Parmesan Mashed Rutabaga is a comforting side that pairs well with any protein.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabagas in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until rutabagas are fork-tender, about 20 minutes.
3. Drain well and return to the pot. Tip: Let them sit for a minute to evaporate excess water.
4. Add warmed heavy cream, softened butter, grated Parmesan, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Mash with a potato masher until smooth. Tip: For extra creaminess, use a hand mixer on low speed.
6. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Tip: A pinch of nutmeg can add warmth to the flavor profile.

Outstandingly creamy with a subtle sweetness, this dish is a fantastic alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Serve it topped with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch.

Maple Glazed Mashed Rutabaga

Unearth the earthy sweetness of rutabaga in this simple yet satisfying side dish. Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe transforms the humble root vegetable into a creamy, maple-kissed delight.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh rutabaga, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 1 tsp sea salt, finely ground
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabaga in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 20 minutes, or until rutabaga is fork-tender. Drain well.
3. Return rutabaga to the pot. Add softened butter, warm heavy cream, and maple syrup. Mash until smooth.
4. Season with sea salt and black pepper. Stir to combine. Tip: For extra creaminess, use a hand mixer on low speed.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl. Drizzle with additional maple syrup if desired. Tip: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm spice note.
6. Serve immediately. Tip: Leftovers can be reheated with a splash of cream to maintain creaminess.

Rich and velvety, this mashed rutabaga boasts a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Try it as a unique alternative to traditional mashed potatoes at your next holiday meal.

Herbed Mashed Rutabaga with Thyme

Whip up a comforting side with herbed mashed rutabaga, a twist on the classic that’s both earthy and aromatic.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs rutabaga, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabaga in a large pot and cover with cold water by 2 inches. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until rutabaga is fork-tender, about 20 minutes. Tip: Test a piece early to avoid overcooking.
3. Drain thoroughly in a colander, then return to the pot. Let sit for 1 minute to evaporate excess moisture.
4. Add softened butter, warm heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Mash with a potato masher until smooth. Tip: For extra creaminess, warm the cream before adding.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Tip: A pinch of nutmeg can enhance the earthy flavors.

Ultra-creamy with a hint of thyme, this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or as a standalone comfort food. Try topping with crispy fried onions for added texture.

Spicy Mashed Rutabaga with Chili Flakes

Forget bland sides; this dish brings heat and heartiness to any table. Spicy mashed rutabaga with chili flakes is a bold twist on a classic.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed
• 3 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp flaky sea salt
• 1/2 tsp finely ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp chili flakes
• 1/2 cup warm whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss rutabaga cubes with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
2. Roast for 25 minutes until edges are golden and tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Transfer roasted rutabaga to a large bowl. Add warm milk, butter, and remaining olive oil.
4. Mash with a potato masher until smooth but slightly chunky for texture.
5. Fold in chili flakes evenly for a consistent spice level.
6. Serve immediately or keep warm in a covered dish for up to 20 minutes.

Just the right amount of spice elevates the natural sweetness of rutabaga. Creamy with a kick, it pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a standalone comfort dish. Try topping with extra chili flakes for an added punch.

Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Mashed Rutabaga

Dive into a comforting side dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make. This recipe transforms the humble rutabaga into a creamy, aromatic delight with roasted garlic and fresh rosemary.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed
• 4 cloves garlic, unpeeled
• 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh rosemary
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp finely ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss garlic cloves with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 20 minutes until soft.
2. Meanwhile, boil rutabaga cubes in salted water for 20-25 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
3. Squeeze roasted garlic from skins into a bowl. Mash into a paste with a fork.
4. Return drained rutabaga to the pot. Add garlic paste, remaining olive oil, rosemary, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper.
5. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy. For extra creaminess, use a hand mixer on low speed.
6. Adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve warm.

Unbelievably creamy with a subtle sweetness from the rutabaga, this dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as a standalone comfort food. Try topping with crispy fried rosemary for an extra flavor boost.

Cheesy Mashed Rutabaga with Cheddar

Outstanding comfort food that’s both hearty and satisfying, this cheesy mashed rutabaga with cheddar is a twist on the classic mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh rutabaga, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabaga in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until rutabaga is fork-tender, about 20 minutes.
3. Drain well and return to the pot. Tip: Let it sit for a minute to evaporate excess water.
4. Add warmed milk, softened butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth. Tip: Use a potato masher for a rustic texture.
5. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Tip: Reserve some cheese for garnish.
6. Serve hot. Zesty and creamy, this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or as a standalone comfort dish. The sharp cheddar elevates the earthy rutabaga for a flavorful experience.

Bacon and Chive Mashed Rutabaga

Always looking for a twist on classic sides? This Bacon and Chive Mashed Rutabaga brings a smoky, herby punch to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs rutabaga, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into small bits
• 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabaga in a large pot. Cover with cold water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Simmer rutabaga for 20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Tip: A sharp knife should slide in easily.
3. While rutabaga cooks, fry bacon bits in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
4. Drain rutabaga well. Return to pot. Mash with a potato masher until smooth.
5. Stir in warm heavy cream, softened butter, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated. Tip: For extra creaminess, warm the cream before adding.
6. Fold in crispy bacon bits and fresh chives. Reserve some for garnish. Tip: Adding chives at the end preserves their bright color and flavor.

Velvety smooth with chunks of smoky bacon, this dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats. Try topping with extra chives for a pop of color.

Caramelized Onion Mashed Rutabaga

Elevate your side dish game with this savory twist on a classic. Caramelized onions add a deep, sweet flavor to the earthy rutabaga, creating a comforting yet sophisticated dish.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

1. In a large pot, cover rutabaga cubes with water and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook until fork-tender, about 20 minutes.
2. While rutabaga cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 15 minutes.
3. Drain rutabaga and return to the pot. Add heavy cream, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mash until smooth.
4. Fold in caramelized onions until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Offer a creamy texture with sweet, caramelized onion bits throughout. Perfect alongside roasted meats or as a hearty standalone dish.

Savory Mashed Rutabaga with Sage

Even the simplest dishes can surprise you with their depth of flavor. This Savory Mashed Rutabaga with Sage is no exception, offering a comforting side that’s both earthy and aromatic.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabagas in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until rutabagas are fork-tender, about 20 minutes. Drain well.
3. Return rutabagas to the pot. Add softened butter, warm heavy cream, chopped sage, salt, and pepper.
4. Mash with a potato masher until smooth. For a creamier texture, use a hand mixer on low speed.
5. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, but avoid overmixing to keep the texture light.

Unbelievably creamy with a hint of sage, this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats. Try topping with crispy sage leaves for an extra crunch.

Sweet and Spicy Mashed Rutabaga

Get ready to transform the humble rutabaga into a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. This sweet and spicy mashed rutabaga is a game-changer for your side dish repertoire.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed
• 3 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp finely ground sea salt
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Toss the cubed rutabagas with olive oil, maple syrup, red pepper flakes, and sea salt on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 25 minutes, or until the rutabagas are fork-tender and caramelized at the edges.
4. Transfer the roasted rutabagas to a large mixing bowl.
5. Add heavy cream and butter to the bowl.
6. Mash the mixture with a potato masher until smooth, or leave it slightly chunky for texture.
7. Tip: For extra creaminess, warm the cream and butter before adding.
8. Tip: Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
9. Tip: A splash of apple cider vinegar can add a nice tang if desired.

Here’s a side that steals the show with its velvety texture and bold flavors. Try serving it alongside grilled meats or as a unique base for a breakfast hash.

Mashed Rutabaga with Sour Cream and Dill

Here’s a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings a rustic charm to any meal. Mashed rutabaga gets a creamy lift from sour cream and a fresh pop from dill.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs rutabaga, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Place the cubed rutabaga in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until rutabaga is fork-tender, about 20 minutes. Drain well.
3. Return the drained rutabaga to the pot. Add the softened butter and mash until smooth.
4. Fold in the sour cream, fresh dill, kosher salt, and black pepper until fully incorporated.
5. For extra creaminess, whip the mixture with a hand mixer on low for 30 seconds. Tip: Avoid overmixing to prevent the rutabaga from becoming gluey.
6. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Tip: Taste as you go to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
7. Serve warm. Tip: Garnish with additional dill and a dollop of sour cream for an elegant presentation.

Kick back and enjoy the creamy texture and earthy sweetness of the rutabaga, perfectly balanced with the tangy sour cream and aromatic dill. Try serving it alongside roasted meats or as a unique twist on your holiday table.

Curried Mashed Rutabaga

Great for a cozy night in, this Curried Mashed Rutabaga brings warmth and spice to your table. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it a standout side.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 1 tbsp curry powder, freshly ground
• 1 tsp salt, fine sea
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabagas in a large pot. Cover with water by 2 inches. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Simmer until rutabagas are fork-tender, about 20 minutes. Tip: Check tenderness at 15 minutes to avoid overcooking.
3. Drain rutabagas well. Return to the pot. Mash with a potato masher until smooth.
4. Add softened butter, warm heavy cream, curry powder, salt, and black pepper to the mashed rutabagas. Stir until fully incorporated. Tip: Warm cream prevents the dish from cooling too quickly.
5. Cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to blend flavors. Tip: Constant stirring avoids sticking and ensures even flavor distribution.

Zesty and creamy, this dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a bold base for a vegetarian bowl. The curry powder adds a warm depth, making it a comforting yet exciting side.

Mashed Rutabaga with Brown Butter and Hazelnuts

Just when you thought mashed potatoes were the ultimate comfort food, this dish comes along to change the game. Mashed rutabaga offers a sweet, nutty alternative that’s surprisingly creamy.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1/4 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabagas in a large pot. Cover with cold water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Simmer until rutabagas are fork-tender, about 20 minutes. Drain well.
3. Return rutabagas to the pot. Add 2 tbsp butter, warm heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
4. In a small skillet, melt remaining 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Cook until butter turns a deep golden brown, about 3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
5. Pour brown butter over mashed rutabaga. Stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl. Top with toasted hazelnuts before serving.

Expect a velvety texture with a rich, buttery flavor and a crunchy nut topping. Serve alongside roasted meats or as a standalone dish with a drizzle of olive oil.

Smoky Paprika Mashed Rutabaga

Vibrant and hearty, this dish transforms the humble rutabaga into a creamy, smoky delight. Perfect for those seeking a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

– 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
– 3 tablespoons rich unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup warm whole milk
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon finely ground sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabagas in a large pot and cover with cold water by 2 inches. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until rutabagas are fork-tender, about 20 minutes. Tip: A fork should slide in easily with no resistance.
3. Drain rutabagas well and return to the pot. Let sit for 1 minute to evaporate excess moisture.
4. Add butter, warm milk, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper to the pot.
5. Mash the mixture with a potato masher until smooth. Tip: For extra creaminess, use a hand mixer on low speed.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Tip: A pinch more smoked paprika can enhance the smoky flavor.

Mashed rutabaga offers a velvety texture with a subtle sweetness, beautifully balanced by the smoky paprika. Serve it topped with a drizzle of olive oil and an extra sprinkle of paprika for a visually appealing dish.

Mashed Rutabaga with Roasted Bell Peppers

Vibrant and hearty, this dish combines the earthy sweetness of rutabaga with the smoky depth of roasted bell peppers for a comforting side.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed
• 3 large red bell peppers, halved and seeded
• 1/4 cup rich extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp finely ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Place bell pepper halves on a baking sheet, skin side up. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil.
2. Roast peppers for 25 minutes until skins are charred and blistered. Let cool, then peel and chop.
3. While peppers roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rutabaga cubes and cook for 20 minutes until fork-tender.
4. Drain rutabaga and return to pot. Add remaining olive oil, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
5. Fold in chopped roasted peppers until evenly distributed.

Lusciously creamy with a hint of smokiness, this mash pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a standalone comfort dish. Try topping with crispy fried onions for added texture.

Honey Glazed Mashed Rutabaga

Perfect for a cozy night in, this honey glazed mashed rutabaga brings a sweet and earthy twist to your table. Its simplicity belies the depth of flavor achievable with just a few ingredients.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp raw honey, preferably local
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 1 tsp sea salt, finely ground
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabagas in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until rutabagas are fork-tender, about 20 minutes. Tip: A fork should slide in easily with no resistance.
3. Drain rutabagas well and return to the pot. Mash with a potato masher until smooth.
4. Add softened butter, raw honey, warmed heavy cream, sea salt, and black pepper to the mashed rutabagas. Stir until fully incorporated. Tip: For extra creaminess, warm the cream before adding.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl and drizzle with additional honey if desired. Tip: A light drizzle enhances both flavor and presentation.

Mashed rutabaga offers a velvety texture with a balance of sweet and savory notes. Serve it alongside roasted meats or as a standalone dish garnished with thyme for an aromatic touch.

Mashed Rutabaga with Caramelized Apples

Unearth the comforting blend of sweet and savory with this simple yet flavorful dish. Perfect for fall, it combines the earthy tones of rutabaga with the sweet crispness of apples.

Ingredients

• 2 large rutabagas, peeled and cubed
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 large apples, cored and thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Place cubed rutabagas in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until rutabagas are fork-tender, about 20 minutes. Tip: A fork should easily pierce the rutabaga.
3. Drain rutabagas and return to the pot. Add 2 tbsp butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Mash rutabagas until smooth. Cover and keep warm. Tip: For extra creaminess, warm the cream before adding.
5. In a skillet, melt remaining 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
6. Cook, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Tip: Don’t stir too often to allow caramelization.
7. Serve mashed rutabaga topped with caramelized apples.

Combining the creamy texture of rutabaga with the sweet, spiced apples creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Try serving it alongside roasted pork for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Every one of these 18 creamy mashed rutabaga recipes offers a unique twist on a comforting classic, perfect for home cooks looking to spice up their meal rotation. We invite you to dive into these delicious options, find your favorite, and share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to pin this article on Pinterest to keep these tasty ideas handy for your next culinary adventure!

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