If you’ve ever wondered how to get perfectly creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes without the hassle of watching a pot boil or mashing by hand forever, then you are going to love this Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe. It’s quick, simple, and delivers that rich, buttery comfort you crave, all while freeing up your stovetop and your hands. Whether you are preparing a holiday feast or a comforting weeknight meal, these mashed potatoes become an instant favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe shines because of its straightforward, essential ingredients that come together to create a creamy, flavorful side dish. Each element plays a special role, from the type of potatoes to the butter and seasonings.
- 2 lbs potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold): Choose these for a perfect balance of fluffiness and buttery flavor.
- 1 cup water: This is used for pressure cooking the potatoes to tender perfection.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and richness to the potatoes; feel free to adjust based on your preferred consistency.
- 6 tablespoons butter: For that luscious, silky texture and deep buttery taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the natural potato flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild, complementary warmth to the dish.
- â…› teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch adds an unexpected subtle depth that elevates the dish.
How to Make Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Add Potatoes to Instant Pot
Start by placing the trivet inside your Instant Pot, then pour in 1 cup of water. Add the peeled and chopped potatoes on top of the trivet. This setup ensures the potatoes steam rather than boil, which locks in their texture and flavor. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position to prepare for pressure cooking.
Step 2: Pressure Cook the Potatoes
Set your Instant Pot to “pressure cooking” or “manual” mode if you have an older model, and program it for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time finishes, let it sit for 2 minutes under pressure before carefully releasing the remaining pressure manually. This gentle pressure release keeps your potatoes perfectly tender without becoming mushy.
Step 3: Mash and Season
Remove the hot trivet carefully and drain any excess water remaining in the Instant Pot. Add the butter, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg directly to the potatoes. Use a potato masher to mash until you reach your ideal creamy consistency. Feel free to add a little more milk if you prefer silkier mashed potatoes. Give it a taste check and adjust the seasoning if needed. It’s now ready to be served and enjoyed!
How to Serve Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate your mashed potatoes to a showstopper. Freshly chopped chives, parsley, or even a sprinkle of shredded cheese add both color and a layer of exciting flavor. For something indulgent, a pat of melting butter or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil can take this dish over the top.
Side Dishes
This Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with just about anything. Think roasted chicken, succulent steak, or a hearty mushroom gravy for a vegetarian twist. Even a simple pan-seared fish or a bowl of green beans and carrots bring out the comforting qualities of these creamy potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to get fancy? Serve your mashed potatoes in individual ramekins topped with crispy fried onions or bacon bits. For a rustic feel, spoon into a large wooden bowl and invite guests to help themselves. You could also swirl the top of the mashed potatoes with a fork to add texture before adding a final knob of butter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their creamy texture, make sure they are cooled completely before refrigerating. Before serving the next day, adding a splash of milk helps bring them back to life.
Freezing
Mashed potatoes from this Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe freeze wonderfully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your mashed potatoes gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a little milk or butter as you warm them to restore that creamy texture and avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe?
Yes, although Russet and Yukon Gold are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can experiment with red potatoes or fingerlings. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly—Russet potatoes will give you fluffier mashed potatoes, while Yukon Gold offer a creamier finish.
Do I need to peel the potatoes before cooking?
Peeling is recommended for the smoothest mashed potatoes, but if you don’t mind a bit of texture and some extra nutrition, you can leave the skins on. Just be sure to wash the potatoes thoroughly before cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based margarine or olive oil, and use your favorite non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The Instant Pot technique remains the same, delivering delicious results without dairy.
What’s the best way to get chunkier mashed potatoes?
Simply mash the potatoes less thoroughly, leaving some pieces intact. You can also reduce the amount of milk and butter slightly for a heartier, chunkier texture that adds rustic charm.
Is 5 minutes enough time to cook the potatoes in the Instant Pot?
Yes! The magic of pressure cooking means potatoes cook very quickly. Five minutes under pressure, plus a natural release, cooks them fully without turning them to mush. This timing works perfectly for 1-2 inch chunks of Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe truly makes mashed potatoes effortless and delicious. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want to come back to time and again, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a comforting bowl for yourself. Give it a try, and soon mashed potatoes might just become your favorite make-ahead side dish that’s ready in a flash!
Print
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes recipe delivers creamy, fluffy potatoes with minimal effort. Using the pressure cooker, the potatoes cook quickly and evenly before being mashed with butter, milk, and seasoning for the perfect comfort food side dish.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes (peeled and cut into 1–2 inch pieces; Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
Liquid and Dairy
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 6 tablespoons butter
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- â…› teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Add potatoes to Instant Pot: Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and pour in 1 cup of water. Place the peeled and cut potatoes on top of the trivet. Secure the lid and set the valve to the “sealing” position to prepare for pressure cooking.
- Pressure cook the potatoes: Select the “pressure cooking” or “manual” setting (depending on your Instant Pot model) and set the timer for 5 minutes. When the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pressure to naturally release for 2 minutes, then carefully perform a manual release of any remaining pressure following the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
- Mash the potatoes: Carefully remove the hot trivet and drain any excess water from the pot. Add the whole milk, butter, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg (if using) directly to the cooked potatoes in the Instant Pot. Use a potato masher to mash to your preferred consistency, adding more milk if necessary. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve warm, optionally topped with extra butter and fresh chopped herbs for garnish.
Notes
- Russet potatoes create fluffier mashed potatoes, while Yukon Gold adds a creamier texture.
- The optional nutmeg adds a subtle warm spice, perfect for holiday meals.
- For creamier potatoes, warm the milk and butter before adding.
- Be cautious when releasing pressure to avoid burns from steam.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated gently with a splash of milk to retain creaminess.
