These Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes are creamy, fluffy, and made in no time! Just chop, toss, and let the magic happen. It’s like having a potato fairy in your kitchen! 🥔✨
Making mashed potatoes has never been this easy! I love how my Instant Pot does all the hard work, leaving me more time to enjoy them with gravy or butter. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for that ideal creamy texture. If you’re in a pinch, red potatoes also work, but they’re waxier. So, expect a slightly different consistency.
Liquids: Using low-sodium chicken broth adds great flavor, but if you’re going vegetarian, vegetable broth is an excellent substitute. Water can be used too, but it won’t be as tasty!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best because you can control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, plant-based butter works well in this recipe too!
Milk or Cream: For a lighter version, you can use almond milk or oat milk. If you love a richer flavor, heavy cream is fantastic. You can even use sour cream for a tangy twist!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Mashed Potatoes Without Lumps?
To make sure your mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy, follow these simple steps:
- Cut potatoes into even chunks. This ensures they cook uniformly.
- Don’t rush the mashing process. Use a potato masher or hand mixer, and mash while the potatoes are still hot for better texture.
- Warm your milk or cream before adding it in. Cold dairy can firm up the potatoes.
- Add dairy gradually. This helps you achieve your desired creaminess without overdoing it.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have the fluffiest, most delicious mashed potatoes possible! Happy mashing!
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup water or low sodium chicken broth
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for serving
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream, warmed
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 8 minutes of cooking in the Instant Pot, plus a few minutes for releasing the steam. In total, you’ll have delicious mashed potatoes ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Potatoes:
Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into large, evenly-sized chunks. This helps them cook at the same rate, ensuring perfectly mashed potatoes!
2. Set Up the Instant Pot:
Pour 1 cup of water or chicken broth into the Instant Pot. Place the steaming rack inside and carefully add the potato chunks on top. This will keep them above the liquid for even cooking.
3. Cook the Potatoes:
Close the Instant Pot lid securely, set the valve to sealing, and select the Pressure Cook or Manual function. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes to get perfectly tender potatoes.
4. Release the Pressure:
Once the cooking time is finished, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to venting. Watch out for the steam—it’s hot! Once all the steam has released, you can open the lid.
5. Mash It Up:
Using tongs, carefully remove the steaming rack with the potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the butter to the hot potatoes and mash away using a potato masher or hand mixer until they reach your preferred consistency.
6. Creamy Finish:
Gradually stir in the warmed milk or cream for that luxurious, creamy texture. You can add a little more if you like them extra smooth!
7. Season and Serve:
Now it’s time to flavor them! Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing well. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl, add a pat of butter on top to melt, and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you want to impress!
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the mashed potatoes warm and enjoy them as a delicious side dish! They are perfect with turkey, gravy, or your favorite entree.
This recipe yields creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes in a flash, thanks to your Instant Pot. The buttery flavor and sprinkling of fresh herbs make these mashed potatoes irresistible!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While russet and Yukon gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can also use red potatoes. Just keep in mind they’ll be a bit waxier, resulting in a different consistency.
How Do I Keep My Mashed Potatoes Warm Until Serving?
To keep your mashed potatoes warm, transfer them to a slow cooker set on low heat. You can also cover them with foil in a warm oven (around 200°F) until you’re ready to serve.
Can I Prepare These Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Dairy for a Vegan Version?
For a dairy-free option, you can use plant-based butter and any non-dairy milk, like almond or oat milk. Coconut milk can also add a deliciously creamy texture!