Pure de Papa | Mexican Mashed Potatoes Recipe

As a proud Mexican, I have to recognize that my favorite side dishes at Navidad in casa de mis abuelos were the Pure de Papa and the Espagueti con Crema y Jamon that my dear abuelita Conchis used to make.

Those dishes always brought comfort and warmth to the table, and every bite felt like a hug from my abuelita.

A few years ago, I had the most amazing puré de papas at a dinner hosted by my friend, a chef at a famous restaurant in Chicago. It was a cheesy garlic mashed potatoes recipe that was absolutely unforgettable. I fell in love at the first forkful! It was creamy, silky, and packed with flavor—the kind of dish you’d dream about recreating at home.

But you know me; I always love giving recipes my own twist. So, I started thinking about how to make it even more special. That’s when I decided to add a jalapeño for just a pinch of smoky flavor and a hint of spiciness. The result? A spectacular dish that combines the comforting creaminess of cheesy mashed potatoes with a unique Mexican-inspired flair. You need to try it for yourself!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes (In Mexico we traditionally use yellow potatoes)
• 1 jalapeño
• 1 garlic clove
• 1/4 white onion
• 1/4 package cream cheese
• 1/2 cup Mexican crema
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup melting cheese (I used  Chihuahua cheese)

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes, roast jalapeño, onion and garlic

• Place the potatoes in a large pot filled with enough water to cover them. Boil over medium heat (fuego medio) until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork (about 20-25 minutes).
• Spread the cooking oil on a grill and roast the jalapeno, onion, and garlic. To save time, you can roast them in the air fryer for 2 or 3 minutes.

2. Prep the jalapeño

• Once roasted carefully remove the jalapeño. Slice it open and remove the seeds for a milder flavor. If you love a bit of heat, feel free to leave some seeds in!

3. Blend the creamy mixture

• In a blender, combine the jalapeño, garlic, onion, cream cheese, Mexican crema, and chicken bouillon. Blend until smooth and creamy.

4. Mash the potatoes

• Peel the boiled potatoes and place them back into the pot. Add the butter and mash them using a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.

5. Combine and add cheese

• Pour the jalapeño crema mixture into the mashed potatoes and mix well to combine. Stir in the melting cheese (such as Chihuahua cheese) and mash again until the cheese melts and everything is well incorporated.

6. Broil for a golden finish

• Transfer the mashed potatoes to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle additional shredded Chihuahua cheese on top and place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

What to Serve Mashed Potatoes With

Mashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Here are some ideas to inspire your next meal:

• Turkey or Ham: A classic choice for holiday dinners, creamy jalapeño mashed potatoes perfectly complement the richness of roasted turkey or honey-glazed ham.
• Grilled Chicken: Add a Mexican twist to your everyday dinner by serving these potatoes alongside grilled chicken Pollo Loco Style!
• Beef or Pork: From carne asada to carne picada, these potatoes add a creamy and smoky balance to hearty meats.
• Vegetarian Options: Serve with roasted vegetables, stuffed bell peppers, or a cheesy garlic mashed potato casserole for a meatless feast.

What Goes with Mashed Potatoes?

To round out your meal, consider adding these sides to complement the mashed potatoes:

• Salads: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the potatoes.
• Mexican-Inspired Sides: spaghetti a la mantequilla, or frijoles Puercos (refried beans), bring additional layers of flavor.
• Bread: Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread are perfect for scooping up every last bite.

Puré de Papas en Inglés

If you’re wondering how to describe this dish in English, it translates to “Mashed Potatoes.” Specifically, these are “Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Jalapeño.” The blend of Mexican crema, queso Chihuahua, and jalapeño makes them stand out as a unique and flavorful side dish.

Tips for Success:

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance and broil them right before serving for that freshly baked golden crust.
• How to Reheat Mashed Potatoes: Microwave them! Place a soaked-in-water kitchen paper towel on top to keep moisture in! and al set!
• Customizable: Feel free to swap the Chihuahua cheese for Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, or even cream cheese for a different twist.
• Sweet Potato Option: For a unique spin, try substituting half the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.

Don’t forget:

Looking for more Mexican-inspired holiday recipes? Follow me on Instagram for more ideas that bring traditional flavors to your fiesta table.