Mashed Potatoes Topped with Spinach Pesto

A creamy mashed potato dish gets a fresh twist with a vibrant spinach pesto topping that adds a burst of flavor and color. It’s a simple yet delicious way to elevate a classic comfort food.

★★★★★5(1 reviews)Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Prep Time 15 min

Cook Time 25 min

Total Time 40 min

Difficulty Medium

Ingredients 0/7

8 red potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 (14 ounce) can vegetable broth ¾ (10 ounce) bag washed fresh spinach ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese salt and pepper to taste

Why This Recipe Is So Popular

This dish combines creamy, comforting mashed potatoes with a fresh and vibrant spinach pesto. The blend of smooth texture and bright flavors makes it both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic side with a healthy twist.

Cooking Techniques

- Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold for the best creamy texture.
- Warm the milk or cream before adding to the potatoes to keep them smooth and fluffy.
- If your pesto is too thick, add a little olive oil or water to loosen it up for easier spreading.

Step 1

Put the potatoes in a big pot and covering them with salted water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then turn the heat down to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the potatoes simmer until they’re tender—this usually takes about 20 minutes. Once they’re done, drain the water and let the potatoes sit for a few minutes so the steam can escape.

Step 2

While the potatoes are cooking, throw the garlic, olive oil, vegetable broth, and spinach into a blender. Blend everything up until it’s nice and smooth, then set the pesto aside.

Step 3

When the potatoes have cooled slightly, mash them until they’re nice and creamy. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, then taste and add salt and pepper as you like. Finally, spoon the spinach pesto over the mashed potatoes and enjoy!

Serving Inspiration

Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. This dish also works well as a vegetarian main when paired with a fresh salad or steamed beans. A sprinkle of Parmesan or toasted pine nuts on top adds extra flavor and crunch.

How To Refrigerate This Dish

Store leftover mashed potatoes and pesto separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Use within 2-3 days for the best taste. Reheat potatoes gently with a splash of milk and stir pesto before serving to refresh its flavor.

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By Lucas Bennett

Food Writer

Lucas creates approachable recipes that balance flavor, simplicity, and reliability.