Step 1

Add the chopped potatoes to a large saucepan and cover with cold water. Add a good pinch of salt.Bring the pan to the boil then reduce to a medium simmer and half cover with a lid.Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes, then drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pan.Cover the potatoes then let them steam over a medium heat for 2 minutes. Give the pan a good shake.Meanwhile, heat the milk in a small saucepan.

Step 2

Using a potato masher mash the potatoes until they are smooth.Add the butter and half the milk to the potatoes and stir vigourously. Add more of the milk now, you may not need to add all the milk, the potatoes should be creamy, not watery.

Step 3

Stir in the cheese and keep stirring until the cheese has been incorporated into the mash.Season now with salt and black pepper to your own taste.

Step 4

Serve immediately with a pat of butter and the chopped parsley if using.