Step 1

Add peeled and cubed potatoes to a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until soft and easily pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes. Drain potatoes and return to the pot.

Step 2

While the potatoes are cooking, add the cottage cheese to a blender or food processor and process until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3

Mash potatoes with a potato masher or put them through a potato ricer until no lumps remain.

Step 4

Cut butter into cubes and add to the hot potatoes. Stir until butter is melted.

Step 5

Add pureed cottage cheese, milk, salt, and pepper to the potatoes and stir to combine. Add more salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 6

If you're making the cheddar or blue cheese potatoes, stir in the remaining ingredients. Serve with extra butter on top.