Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, Fluffy, and Effortless

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish—rich, creamy, and full of comfort, yet ready in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. The Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also ensures consistent results every time. With tender potatoes cooked to perfection under pressure, you’ll have a smooth, fluffy mash without the need for constant monitoring.

This recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive holiday meals. You can keep it classic with butter and cream or customize it with herbs, garlic, or cheese for extra flavor. Easy, quick, and foolproof, these mashed potatoes are a kitchen staple that pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to hearty stews. Once you try them in the Instant Pot, you may never go back to boiling potatoes on the stove again.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Russet potatoes – Known for their high starch content, Russets create fluffy and light mashed potatoes. Yukon Golds are another great choice for a creamier texture.

Butter – Adds richness and a silky texture, creating the classic buttery taste everyone loves in mashed potatoes.

Heavy cream – Brings creaminess and a luxurious mouthfeel to the mash. Milk or half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.

Garlic (optional) – When cooked with the potatoes, garlic infuses the mash with a subtle savory depth.

Salt – Essential for seasoning, salt enhances the natural potato flavor.

Black pepper – Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice to balance the creaminess.

Fresh chives or parsley (optional) – Sprinkled on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Chicken or vegetable broth (optional) – Can be used instead of water for cooking the potatoes to add extra flavor.

Directions

1. Peel and cut the potatoes into 1 ½–2-inch chunks. Place them in the Instant Pot along with water (or broth), ensuring the potatoes are just covered. Add a teaspoon of salt.
2. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow a quick release once cooking is complete.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. This allows excess moisture to evaporate for fluffier mashed potatoes.
4. Add butter, warm cream (or milk), salt, and pepper. Mash using a potato masher for a rustic texture or a hand mixer for extra smooth results.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For garlic mashed potatoes, mash in the softened cooked garlic.
6. Serve hot, topped with extra butter, chives, or parsley if desired.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
• large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
• Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
• Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
• Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
• knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
• Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings. Prep time takes about 10 minutes, cooking time is 10 minutes under pressure, and mashing takes 5 minutes. Total time is around 25 minutes, making this a quick and convenient side dish.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. They can also be microwaved in short intervals, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes are endlessly adaptable, and you can tailor them to match your preferences or the occasion.

For a lighter version, substitute milk or chicken broth for cream. If you love garlicky potatoes, add roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, mellow flavor. Cheese lovers can fold in Parmesan, cream cheese, or shredded cheddar for extra indulgence.

For a rustic mash, leave the skins on Yukon Gold potatoes—they add texture and nutrients. To elevate them for a holiday meal, stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary and finish with a drizzle of truffle oil.

If you enjoy tangy flavors, replace some of the cream with sour cream or Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil and almond milk instead of butter and cream. Each variation provides a unique spin while maintaining the comforting essence of classic mashed potatoes.

FAQs

Can I use red potatoes instead of Russet or Yukon Gold?

Yes, but red potatoes create a denser, less fluffy mash.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

It’s optional—peeling gives a smoother mash, while leaving the skins adds texture and nutrients.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just be sure not to fill the Instant Pot past the max line, and adjust liquid slightly.

Should I warm the cream before adding it?

Yes, warm cream or milk blends more easily and keeps the potatoes fluffy.

Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, prepare them up to 2 days in advance and reheat with a splash of cream.

Can I use a stand mixer to mash the potatoes?

Yes, but overmixing can make them gluey. Mix just until smooth.

What if my potatoes are watery?

Drain them well and return to the pot over low heat for a minute to evaporate excess moisture.

Can I add roasted garlic instead of raw?

Yes, roasted garlic adds a sweet, nutty flavor.

Are these mashed potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, as long as no flour-thickened broth or additives are used.

How can I keep them warm for serving?

Keep them in the Instant Pot on the “Keep Warm” setting for up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes are a quick, creamy, and foolproof side dish that elevates any meal. With minimal effort and just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting classic that’s perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts. Customizable and always delicious, these mashed potatoes are sure to become a regular feature at your table.

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