Parmesan Parsnip Mashed Potatoes

Parmesan Parsnip Mashed Potatoes are a great way to add parsnips to your diet! They are creamy, decadent, slightly sweet and no gravy needed! 

I don’t know about you but parsnips are not something that I cook with very often. But in the spirit of trying to incorporate more vegetables into our diet, it was time to give them a try. If you’re not familiar with them either, they are a nutrient-dense root vegetable. The best way to describe them are like sweeter, nuttier carrot. 

They are often roasted, pureed or sometimes added to soups and stews. And in this case, boiled with russet potatoes and mashed with bacon and Parmesan to add more decadence. 

Let’s talk about what you’ll need to make it: 

Parmesan Parsnip Mashed Potatoes: 

• RUSSET POTATOES: You’ll need 4 medium sized russet potatoes, about 2 pounds. 
• PARSNIP: Make sure that you peel the parsnip as the peel can be a bit bitter. 
• BACON: This is optional but I love the addition of the smoky flavor. 
• BUTTER: To help add richness to the potatoes and parsnips. 
• MILK: I use whole milk but you can also use half and half. 
• PARMESAN CHEESE: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is going to melt the best. 
• NUTMEG: Adds a subtle nutty flavor. 
• SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE

Step by Step Photos and Instructions: 

Making these Parmesan Parsnip Mashed Potatoes is just as easy as making regular mashed potatoes. Just follow along with these step by step photos and instructions. 

• STEP #1: Boil parsnips and potatoes until fork tender. Drain. Return to pot.
• STEP #2: Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate and set aside. 
• STEP #3: Add remaining ingredients to pot and mash. Fold in bacon. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve hot. 

Storage and Leftovers: 

Store the leftovers in the refrigerator and eat within 3 days. 

Looking for mashed potato variations? Here are my favorites: 

Ultra creamy, decadent Horseradish Mashed Potatoes are an easy, delicious side dish. Serve them alongside your favorite beef dishes for a great meal. 

Liven up traditional mashed potatoes with the bright flavor of dill! These flavorful dill mashed potatoes are a great twist on the classic. 

Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish that screams comfort. With creamy mashed potatoes, bacon,  sautéed cabbage and onions mixed together how could it not?!

Note: Originally published in 2012. Updated in 2025 with new photos, step by step photos and nutrition information.