These Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes are creamy, fluffy, and oh-so-easy to make! You just toss your spuds in the pot, add some water, and let the machine do all the hard work.
I can’t get enough of how quickly they come together. Perfect for those nights when you want comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re great with butter and herbs! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend Yukon Gold for their buttery flavor and creamy texture. Russet potatoes work too but can be fluffier. If you prefer, sweet potatoes can be a tasty alternative for a different twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the salt. If you’re dairy-free, use plant-based butter or olive oil. For a little kick, consider adding garlic-infused oil!
Milk or Cream: Whole milk adds richness. Heavy cream makes them extra indulgent. For a lighter option, you can use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk. Experiment to find your fave!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Texture with Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes?
Getting the right texture is key for great mashed potatoes. Here are some steps to ensure they turn out creamy and smooth:
- Make sure the potato chunks are uniform in size—about 1.5 inches—so they cook evenly.
- Don’t skip the natural pressure release! This helps the potatoes steam and stay tender.
- Mash them just until smooth. Over-mashing can lead to gummy potatoes.
- Add warm milk or cream instead of cold, which helps incorporate better and keeps the potatoes fluffy.
With these tips, you’ll be serving up the best mashed potatoes in no time! Enjoy your comfort food! 🥔✨
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup water
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream, warmed
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or rosemary)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time plus about 20 minutes for pressure release. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Potatoes:
Start by peeling and cutting your potatoes into chunks. This helps them cook evenly and quickly in the Instant Pot. Place the chunked potatoes into the bowl of the Instant Pot and pour in 1 cup of water. This water is essential for steaming the potatoes.
2. Cooking the Potatoes:
Now, secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting, and cook the potatoes on high pressure for 10 minutes. This will yield perfectly cooked potatoes that mash beautifully.
3. Release the Pressure:
When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the potatoes soft. After that, carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure by turning the valve. Once the pressure is gone, open the lid cautiously.
4. Dry the Potatoes:
Check your potatoes—if there’s excess water, drain it out. Then, add 2 tablespoons of butter to the warm potatoes. The heat from the potatoes will melt the butter, making it easier to mix in!
5. Mash It Up:
Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. For a smoother texture, the hand mixer works like a charm. Be careful not to over-mash, as that can make them gummy.
6. Creamy Goodness:
Next, pour in the warm milk or cream and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir and mash until everything is creamy and well combined. Now is the time to add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your luscious mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. For an extra touch, create a little well in the center and add a pat of butter. Top with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a lovely finish. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite of your creamy Instant Pot mashed potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can use different potatoes! Yukon Golds provide a creamy texture, while Russet potatoes are fluffier. You can also try sweet potatoes for a tasty variation!
How Do I Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to keep them from drying out and microwave or warm them on the stove, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make These Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and keep them warm in the Instant Pot on the “Keep Warm” setting for a couple of hours. Alternatively, prepare them ahead and reheat just before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Milk or Cream?
If you want a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk can be great substitutes. For a richer flavor, you could also use vegetable broth instead of milk for a different twist!
