Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes are a classic comfort food that can instantly elevate any meal. Whether you're serving them with a hearty roast, alongside grilled chicken, or simply as a comforting bite, a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes is always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You'll Love Making Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes This Way
- Speed and Efficiency. Instant Pot delivers mashed potatoes in a fraction of the time it takes to make them on the stovetop. Say goodbye to long boiling times; your creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes are ready in a flash.
- Consistency. The Instant Pot ensures even cooking of potatoes, resulting in consistently creamy and lump-free mashed potatoes every time. No more unevenly cooked or overly dense spuds.
- Flavorful Infusion. Cooking the potatoes in chicken or vegetable broth in the Instant Pot infuses them with a savory, rich flavor that elevates your mashed potatoes to a whole new level. It's an excellent way to add depth to your dish.
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes offer convenience, consistent quality, and customizable flavors that make them a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Whether you're a busy cook or simply want to enjoy creamy mashed potatoes in no time, this recipe will become a favorite.
What Are The Best Potatoes For Mashed Potatoes?
The foundation of any great mashed potatoes recipe is the choice of potatoes. For creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes, look for starchy or all-purpose potatoes, such as Russets, Yukon Golds, or Idaho potatoes.
These varieties have a higher starch content, which makes for light and fluffy mashed potatoes. Waxy potatoes, like red potatoes or fingerlings, tend to hold their shape better and are not ideal for mashing.
How Long Does It Take For Potatoes To Soften In The Instant Pot?
For diced or cubed potatoes it typically takes about 4 to 6 minutes of cooking time on high pressure to soften them for mashed potatoes or other dishes.
For whole or large potatoes: If you're cooking whole or large potatoes, it can take longer, around 10 to 12 minutes on high pressure. The exact time may vary depending on the size and type of potatoes.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Starchy Potatoes- These potatoes are the star of the dish. They provide the main texture and flavor for your mashed potatoes. Starchy potatoes are ideal for mashing because they become light and fluffy when cooked.
- Chicken Broth- The broth adds flavor to the potatoes as they cook in the Instant Pot. It also helps infuse a savory taste throughout the potatoes.
- Unsalted Butter- Butter adds richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes. It contributes a delicious, buttery flavor and helps create a silky-smooth texture.
- Heavy Cream- Cream is the key to achieving the desired creaminess in mashed potatoes. It also adds a pleasant dairy flavor.
- Garlic- Minced garlic can be added to infuse the mashed potatoes with a subtle garlic flavor.
- Salt and Pepper- Salt is essential for seasoning the mashed potatoes, enhancing their flavor. Pepper adds a hint of spice and complements the overall taste.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley or Chives- They provide a pop of color and freshness to the dish. This step is optional but can enhance the presentation and flavor.
How To Make Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
- Prepare the Potatoes. Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 2 inches in size. This ensures that they cook uniformly in the Instant Pot.
- Pressure Cook. Place the potato chunks in the Instant Pot and add the chicken broth, and minced garlic. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Make sure the steam release valve is in the sealing position.
- Pressure Release. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pot to naturally release the pressure for 10 minutes, and then carefully perform a quick pressure release of any remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to the venting position.
- Drain and Mash. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked potatoes from the Instant Pot and place them in a large bowl, leaving the liquid in the pot. Add the butter and mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a hand mixer. Gradually add the heavy cream while mashing until you reach your desired level of creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish. Transfer the creamy mashed potatoes to a serving bowl, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your hassle-free Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes!
Tips And Tricks
Making mashed potatoes in the Instant Pot can be a convenient and efficient way to prepare this classic side dish. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your Instant Pot mashed potatoes turn out creamy and delicious:
- Choose the Right Potatoes. Use starchy or russet potatoes for the creamiest texture. They absorb moisture well and result in fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Peel and Cut. Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks. This ensures even cooking.
- Liquid Ratio. Add enough water or chicken broth to the Instant Pot before placing the potatoes in the steamer basket. This prevents the potatoes from sticking to the bottom and ensures they cook evenly.
Variations
One of the great things about mashed potatoes is their versatility. You can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes- Stir in your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garlic Lovers- If you're a fan of garlic, add roasted garlic cloves or extra minced garlic to infuse your mashed potatoes with a delightful garlic flavor.
- Creamy Herb Blend- Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a herb-infused twist.
- Spicy Kick- Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
What To Serve With Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Instant Pot mashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses and side dishes. Here are some ideas for what to serve with them:
- Roast Chicken- A classic combination, creamy mashed potatoes complement the flavors of roast chicken perfectly.
- Gravy- Serve your mashed potatoes with a rich and flavorful gravy for a comforting and hearty meal.
- Steak- Mashed potatoes make a great side dish for a juicy steak. The creamy texture of the potatoes contrasts nicely with the meat.
- Pork Chops- Whether grilled, pan-fried, or roasted, pork chops and mashed potatoes are a delicious duo.
- Meatloaf- Mashed potatoes and meatloaf make for a comforting and satisfying meal, especially when topped with gravy.
Make Ahead Tips
Preparing mashed potatoes in advance can be a time-saver when you're hosting a dinner party or holiday feast. To make them ahead, follow these steps:
- Prepare the mashed potatoes as instructed in the recipe.
- Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days.
- When you're ready to serve, reheat the mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a little extra milk or cream to achieve the desired consistency.
How Long Do They Last?
Instant Pot mashed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Let the mashed potatoes cool to room temperature before refrigerating them. Transfer the mashed potatoes to an airtight container with a secure lid to prevent them from drying out or taking on the flavors of other food being stored in the refrigerator.
Consider freezing them for longer storage. Properly frozen mashed potatoes can last for up to 10 to 12 months without significant loss of quality.
More Perfect Potato Recipes
- Instant Pot Potato Salad
- Cheesy Potatoes
- Hasselback Sweet Potatoes
- Instant Pot Colcannon
- Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
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Ingredients
- 4 cups Russet Potatoes
- 1.5 cups Chicken Broth
- 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- 1/3 cup Heavy Cream
- 2 tbsp Garlic, Minced
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- Parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes. Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 2 inches in size. This ensures that they cook uniformly in the Instant Pot.
- Pressure Cook. Place the potato chunks in the Instant Pot and add the chicken broth, and minced garlic. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Make sure the steam release valve is in the sealing position.
- Quick Release. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pot to naturally release the pressure for 10 minutes, and then carefully perform a quick pressure release of any remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to the venting position.
- Drain and Mash. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked potatoes from the Instant Pot and place them in a large bowl, leaving the liquid in the pot. Add the butter and mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a hand mixer. Gradually add the heavy cream while mashing until you reach your desired level of creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish. Transfer the creamy mashed potatoes to a serving bowl, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your hassle-free Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes!
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