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Classic Mashed Turnips

Shake up your side dish game with mashed turnips—a delicious, lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that’s just as creamy and comforting!

mashed turnips on blue plate with turnip in background

Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Mashed potatoes get all the love when it comes to a delicious mashed side dish, but mashed turnips should get just as much hype. I first got into mashed turnips when I moved to the Carolinas, and my husband’s grandmother made sure we had some at every Holiday feast. 

My family loves them because they’re way lighter than some of the other heavy-hitters, like dressing, super creamy mashed potatoes, and mac and cheese. Honestly, it’s gotten to the point where a holiday meal just isn’t the same if we don’t have our beloved mashed turnips.

I like to keep my mashed turnips recipe pretty simple. All you need is some salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a little butter for some of the best-mashed turnips you’ve ever had.

Ingredients for Mashed Turnips

  • Turnip roots – peeled, cut, and boiled. I suggest using smaller turnips. Larger turnips can sometimes be bitter.
  • Unsalted butter – Butter adds flavor and richness.
  • Seasoning – Garlic powder, salt, and pepper
ingredients for mashed turnips on a wooden cutting board

Tools Needed

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Potato masher or hand blender
  • Cutting Board and Knife

How to make Mashed Turnips

Start by peeling the turnips and cutting them into 1-inch pieces. Place the peeled and cubed turnips in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the turnips are fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes.

Drain the turnips in a colander and return them to the pot.

Add garlic powder, butter, salt, and pepper to the pot.

Use a potato masher or hand blender to mash the ingredients together until smooth. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

turnips mashed in pot with potato masher inside of the pot

How to Store

Mashed turnips can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just be sure to let them cool before sealing in a freezer-safe container.

Can I Use the Turnip Greens?

Absolutely! If you’re lucky enough to find turnips with the greens attached, remove them and sauté the turnips. Turnip greens are not only edible but also packed with nutrients. You can sauté them in a bit of olive oil and garlic for a quick side dish.

Are Turnips Low-Carb?

Yes, turnips are a lower-carb alternative to potatoes, making them a great option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.

mashed turnips in bowl with butter on top

Pro Tips

  • Choose the Right Turnips: Smaller turnips are generally sweeter and less woody than their larger counterparts. Look for turnips that are firm, smooth, and free of blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
  • Use the Greens: Don’t toss out those turnip greens! They’re packed with nutrients and can be sautéed, added to salads, or even blended into smoothies. It’s like getting two veggies for the price of one!

Variations

  • Garlic Herb Mashed Turnips: Add minced garlic and your choice of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives for an aromatic and flavorful twist.
  • Cheesy Mashed Turnips: Stir in some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese to make your mashed turnips irresistibly cheesy.
  • Root Vegetable Mash: Mix in other root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or even sweet potatoes for a medley of flavors and nutrients.

FAQs

Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative.

Can I add other spices?

Of course! Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or spices like nutmeg to suit your taste.

What do turnips taste like?

Turnips have a mildly peppery and sweet flavor, similar to a cross between a radish and a potato.

Looking for other delicious mashed sides? Try these out:

mashed turnips on blue plate with turnip in background
Print Pin
5 from 3 votes

Classic Mashed Turnips

Shake up your side dish game with mashed turnips—a delicious, lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that’s just as creamy and comforting!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 8 people
Calories 57kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Turnip roots peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Place the turnips in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the turnips are fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes.
  • Drain the turnips in a colander and return them to the pot.
  • Add garlic powder, butter, salt, and pepper to the pot.
  • Use a potato masher or hand blender to mash the ingredients together until smooth. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

Leftover mashed turnips can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutrition

Calories: 57kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 76mg | Potassium: 220mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 87IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 0.4mg
Recipe Rating




Sharongn

Saturday 6th of July 2024

I am trying these tonight. I've made them using heavy cream but, your version looks better and less calories. I have some Asiago cheese I'm going to add. Serving with Pork Marsala and a veg. I think i have some kale that needs to be used up. Thank you for the recipe!

Tanya

Thursday 11th of July 2024

Thank you Sharongn, I hope you like the recipe :)