Out of Potato, one case
Parsnips as potato substitute
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Parsnips for roasted potatoes
Same amount as the potato
Parsnips can substitute for potatoes in most dishes using a 1:1 ratio. They're sweeter and less starchy than potatoes, so adjust seasoning accordingly. Works best in roasted, mashed, and pureed dishes.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- roasted vegetables
One casethe full parsnip card
Why it works
PotatoParsnips can substitute for potatoes because they provide similar bulk, texture, and cooking properties. While they're sweeter and less starchy than potatoes, they work well in most potato applications. The key is adjusting seasoning and other ingredients to account for the sweetness difference.
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of potato | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Parsnips for roasted potatoesroasted vegetables | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Parsnips for mashed potatoesmashed side dishes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Parsnips for potato soupvegetable soups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Parsnips for potato casserolesvegetable casseroles | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Parsnips for potato stewvegetable stews | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Parsnips for potato pureepureed side dishes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Parsnips for roasted potatoes
different taste, similar texture
Parsnips provide similar bulk and texture to roasted potatoes, with added sweetness and earthy flavor
- Best for
- roasted vegetables, sheet pan dinners, holiday side dishes, vegetable roasts, winter vegetables
Sweeter than potatoes, caramelizes beautifully when roasted, similar cooking time. Cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Parsnips for mashed potatoes
different taste, similar texture
Parsnips create a sweet, creamy puree that can substitute for mashed potatoes in many dishes
- Best for
- mashed side dishes, pureed soups, casseroles, shepherd's pie, vegetable purees
Sweeter than potatoes, creates creamy texture when mashed, may need more liquid. Add butter and cream for richness.
Parsnips for potato soup
different taste, similar texture
Parsnips provide similar bulk and texture to potatoes in soup, with added sweetness and earthy flavor
- Best for
- vegetable soups, pureed soups, chunky soups, stews, minestrone
Sweeter than potatoes, similar cooking time, may need to adjust other sweet ingredients. Works well in pureed soups.
Parsnips for potato casseroles
different taste, similar texture
Parsnips provide similar bulk and texture to potatoes in casseroles, with added sweetness and earthy flavor
- Best for
- vegetable casseroles, gratins, baked dishes, shepherd's pie, potato casseroles
Sweeter than potatoes, similar cooking time, may need to adjust other sweet ingredients. Works well in layered casseroles.
Parsnips for potato stew
different taste, similar texture
Parsnips provide similar bulk and texture to potatoes in stew, with added sweetness and earthy flavor
- Best for
- vegetable stews, beef stew, lamb stew, chicken stew, hearty stews
Sweeter than potatoes, similar cooking time, may need to adjust other sweet ingredients. Holds up well to long cooking.
Parsnips for potato puree
different taste, similar texture
Parsnips create a sweet, creamy puree that can substitute for potato puree in many dishes
- Best for
- pureed side dishes, pureed soups, casseroles, shepherd's pie, vegetable purees
Sweeter than potatoes, creates creamy texture when pureed, may need more liquid. Add butter and cream for richness.
How potato compares
When using parsnips as potato substitutes, it's important to consider the specific dish and your desired flavor profile. Parsnips work best in dishes where their natural sweetness complements the other ingredients, such as roasted vegetables, pureed soups, and mashed side dishes.
Tips for substituting potato
8 tips- Peel parsnips before cooking as the skin can be tough and bitter
- Cut parsnips into similar-sized pieces for even cooking
- Parsnips benefit from roasting to bring out their natural sweetness
- For mashed parsnips, add butter and cream for richness
- Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness of parsnips
- Consider the salt content of your dish when using parsnips
- For chunky dishes, cut parsnips into bite-sized pieces
- Add parsnips gradually and taste as you go to achieve desired flavor
Notes on potato
- Use a combination of parsnips and other root vegetables for more complex flavor
- Adjust the ratio based on your taste preferences and the specific dish
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the earthy flavor of parsnips
Questions
7 questionsCan I use parsnips instead of potatoes in mashed dishes?
Yes, parsnips can substitute for potatoes in mashed dishes. They're sweeter and less starchy, so you may want to add more butter and cream for richness. The result is a sweet, creamy puree.
What's the difference between parsnips and potatoes in cooking?
Parsnips are sweeter and less starchy than potatoes, with a more earthy flavor. They cook in similar time but may need different seasoning to balance their natural sweetness.
Can I use parsnips instead of potatoes in soup?
Yes, parsnips can substitute for potatoes in soup. They provide similar bulk and texture, though they're sweeter. You may want to adjust other sweet ingredients in your soup.
How do I make parsnips taste more like potatoes?
To make parsnips taste more like potatoes, add more salt and herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also mix them with other root vegetables like turnips or rutabaga for a more neutral flavor.
Can I use parsnips instead of potatoes in casseroles?
Yes, parsnips can substitute for potatoes in casseroles. They provide similar bulk and texture, though they're sweeter. Cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What's the best way to cook parsnips as potato substitutes?
The best way to cook parsnips as potato substitutes depends on the dish. For roasted dishes, roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes. For mashed dishes, boil until tender and mash with butter and cream.
Can I use parsnips instead of potatoes in stew?
Yes, parsnips can substitute for potatoes in stew. They provide similar bulk and texture, though they're sweeter. Add them in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.