Comfort food enthusiasts, rejoice! If you’re looking to whip up a delicious and quick side dish, look no further than this Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes recipe. It’s a perfect blend of creamy texture, rich flavors, and utter simplicity. These mashed potatoes will quickly become a household favorite, especially when you need to get dinner on the table in a jiffy.
When I first learned to make these mashed potatoes, it was during a family gathering at my grandmother’s house. She had just received her first Instant Pot and was experimenting with various recipes. I remember being astonished by how quickly she managed to get the potatoes on the table, and they were just as creamy and flavorful as her traditional stovetop mash. It’s been a family staple ever since!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes the classic mashed potatoes to a whole new level of convenience and flavor. The Instant Pot reduces the cooking time significantly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll appreciate the consistency you get every time, without having to hover over a boiling pot. Plus, it’s a great base recipe that you can easily customize to suit your taste.
Ingredients Notes
For the best results, choose starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds which yield a fluffy texture. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can swap in cream for the milk. Consider sourcing organic butter for even more taste. Don’t hesitate to experiment with adding garlic or herbs for added flavor dimensions.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by peeling and quartering your potatoes, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
Step 2
Place the potatoes in the Instant Pot and add enough water to cover them. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
Step 3
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to manual mode for 8 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release.
Step 4
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, and any additional seasonings you desire.
Step 5
Mash the potatoes using a potato masher until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasonings to taste and serve warm.
Storage Options
Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions, and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding more milk or butter to restore the creamy texture.
Variations & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk. Add cream cheese or sour cream for tang. Sprinkle in finely chopped chives or parsley for a fresh take. To change up the flavor, consider using roasted garlic or adding grated Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Pair it with roasted meats, rotisserie chicken, or grilled vegetables. It’s also a great side dish for your next potluck or picnic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these mashed potatoes dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish dairy-free by using plant-based alternatives such as almond milk and vegan butter. Be sure to adjust the quantity to achieve your desired creaminess.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat them on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to refresh the texture.
What are the best potatoes for mashing?
Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashing, thanks to their starchy nature, which results in a fluffier texture. Avoid waxy potatoes like Red Bliss, as they can become gluey when mashed.
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and quartered
- 1.5 cups water
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup heavy cream warmed
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Place the potatoes and water into the Instant Pot.
- Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Release the pressure manually and drain the potatoes.
- Mash the potatoes and mix in butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
- Adjust seasoning and serve hot.
