A comforting, creamy, and flavor-packed side dish, these Herb & Garlic Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes are the perfect hassle-free addition to any meal. Made quickly with simple ingredients, they’re buttery, savory, and ready in just minutes thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. Ideal for busy weeknights or as a holiday table favorite.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for boiling)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup whole milk (or more for desired consistency)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Place the potatoes, garlic, water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt into the Instant Pot.
2. Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on Manual High Pressure for 10 minutes.
3. Once cooking is complete, do a quick release of pressure.
4. Drain any remaining water, then return the potatoes and garlic to the pot.
5. Add butter, milk, parsley, thyme, and rosemary.
6. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting with more milk if needed.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information 

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Sugar: 2g

The Benefits of Using an Instant Pot for Mashed Potatoes

The Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking with its ability to drastically reduce cooking times while preserving flavors and textures. Using an Instant Pot for mashed potatoes not only speeds up the cooking process but also helps retain nutrients that may be lost in traditional boiling methods. The pressure cooking feature allows the potatoes to cook quickly and evenly, ensuring that they turn out soft and creamy without the need for constant attention. This convenience makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or large gatherings.

Why Yukon Gold Potatoes Are Perfect for Mashed Potatoes

Yukon Gold potatoes are a popular choice for mashed potatoes due to their naturally creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor. They have a smooth, buttery consistency that makes them easy to mash and results in a rich, velvety finish. Unlike other potato varieties, Yukon Golds don’t require much butter or cream to achieve the desired creamy texture. Their unique waxy nature holds together well when mashed, creating a consistent and lump-free dish.

The Importance of Garlic in Mashed Potatoes

Garlic is a staple ingredient in many mashed potato recipes, adding depth of flavor and a savory kick. Roasting or pressure cooking garlic before adding it to mashed potatoes mellows its sharpness and enhances its sweetness. In this recipe, the garlic infuses the potatoes with a rich, aromatic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. The balance between garlic and herbs creates a comforting, savory taste that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.

How Pressure Cooking Saves Time

One of the standout features of the Instant Pot is its ability to cook food in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. For mashed potatoes, this is especially beneficial as boiling potatoes on the stovetop can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes depending on the size of the potato pieces. The Instant Pot can cook potatoes in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal tool for anyone who needs to prepare a meal in a hurry. The time-saving aspect doesn’t compromise the flavor or texture of the dish, allowing you to achieve perfect mashed potatoes with minimal effort.

Why You Should Mash Potatoes After Cooking

While it may be tempting to mash potatoes before they are fully cooked, doing so can result in a less desirable texture. The best mashed potatoes are created by first cooking the potatoes thoroughly, allowing the starch to break down and become tender. Once cooked, mashing the potatoes while they are hot helps incorporate the right amount of butter, milk, and seasonings, creating a creamy consistency. Mashing them at the right moment ensures a smooth and velvety finish, free of lumps or chunks.

How to Make Mashed Potatoes Extra Creamy

For extra creamy mashed potatoes, the key is to add the right amount of fat and liquid. The butter and milk should be incorporated gradually while mashing the potatoes to ensure even distribution. Using whole milk or even cream can provide a richer taste, while butter contributes to the smoothness and flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, you can opt for lower-fat milk or even broth to cut down on calories while still maintaining a creamy texture.

The Role of Herbs in Mashed Potatoes

Herbs play a crucial role in elevating the flavor profile of mashed potatoes. In this recipe, dried parsley, thyme, and rosemary add layers of aromatic depth without overpowering the natural taste of the potatoes. Herbs can be adjusted to personal preference, allowing you to experiment with different combinations to find the perfect flavor. Fresh herbs may also be used for an even more vibrant taste, although dried herbs work perfectly in this Instant Pot recipe due to the ease of preparation and longer shelf life.

How to Customize Your Mashed Potatoes

While this recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking. You can add grated cheese such as Parmesan or cheddar for a cheesy version, or stir in sour cream for an extra creamy texture. For a richer flavor, consider adding crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions. Some people enjoy a hint of heat, so adding a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce can transform the dish into something bold and flavorful.

Perfect Pairings for Herb & Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. This herb and garlic version complements roasted meats, such as chicken, beef, and lamb, as well as fish dishes. They can also serve as a hearty accompaniment to vegetarian meals like stuffed squash or vegetable stews. The richness of the mashed potatoes enhances the flavors of grilled or sautéed meats, making them an ideal choice for any dinner table.

Why Mashed Potatoes Are a Comfort Food Staple

Mashed potatoes have long been a comfort food favorite, offering warmth, familiarity, and satisfaction with every bite. They are a dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, making them perfect for family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory herbs, and a touch of garlic provides a soothing experience that evokes feelings of nostalgia and home-cooked goodness.

How to Make Your Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time

If you’re planning to make mashed potatoes for a special occasion or holiday meal, it’s possible to prepare them ahead of time. Once the mashed potatoes are cooked and mashed, allow them to cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the mashed potatoes on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra milk or butter to bring back their creamy texture.

The Nutritional Benefits of Mashed Potatoes

While mashed potatoes are often considered a comfort food indulgence, they do offer some nutritional benefits when prepared with wholesome ingredients. Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. The addition of garlic provides health benefits such as immune support and anti-inflammatory properties. By using minimal butter and milk, you can enjoy a lower-calorie version of mashed potatoes without sacrificing flavor.

How to Avoid Lumpy Mashed Potatoes

Lumpy mashed potatoes can be frustrating to deal with, but there are several techniques to avoid this. First, make sure the potatoes are fully cooked and tender before mashing. You can test their doneness by poking them with a fork; they should easily break apart. Second, use a potato masher or ricer to mash the potatoes instead of a food processor, which can turn the potatoes gummy. Lastly, add the liquid ingredients gradually to achieve the perfect consistency.

Why It’s Important to Let the Instant Pot Release Pressure Naturally

When cooking potatoes in the Instant Pot, it’s important to allow the pressure to release naturally for a few minutes after the cooking cycle ends. This helps to avoid sudden splattering when you open the lid and ensures that the potatoes finish cooking evenly. While a quick release is acceptable for most recipes, a natural release helps to prevent overcooking and allows the potatoes to maintain their ideal texture.

How to Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes

If you have leftover mashed potatoes, they can be easily stored in the refrigerator for later use. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, add a little milk or butter to restore the creamy texture. For longer storage, mashed potatoes can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat frozen mashed potatoes, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as usual.

The Best Tools for Making Mashed Potatoes

While an Instant Pot is a fantastic tool for cooking mashed potatoes, having the right utensils is equally important. A sturdy potato masher or ricer will help you achieve the perfect texture without turning the potatoes into a paste. A silicone spatula is useful for scraping the sides of the pot and ensuring that all ingredients are fully incorporated. Additionally, using a sturdy whisk when adding milk or butter can help create a smooth and consistent mixture.

How to Make Mashed Potatoes Vegan-Friendly

For a vegan-friendly version of this recipe, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative such as vegan butter or olive oil. Use non-dairy milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk, instead of whole milk. These simple swaps will allow you to enjoy creamy, herb-infused mashed potatoes without any dairy, making the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

The Versatility of Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes can be more than just a side dish; they can be transformed into a variety of different meals. For a hearty lunch or dinner, consider turning mashed potatoes into potato croquettes by shaping them into patties, coating them in breadcrumbs, and frying them until golden. Alternatively, mashed potatoes can be used as a topping for shepherd’s pie or as a filling for savory pastries.

How to Get the Perfect Consistency for Mashed Potatoes

Achieving the perfect mashed potato consistency can be tricky, but it’s all about balancing the right amount of liquid and fat. If your mashed potatoes are too thick, add a little more milk or butter to loosen them up. If they are too runny, try mashing them longer to thicken them. The key is to add the liquid gradually until you reach the creamy texture you desire.

The Role of Seasoning in Mashed Potatoes

Seasoning is an essential step in creating flavorful mashed potatoes. While the potatoes themselves are mild in taste, the addition of herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper can bring the dish to life. Be sure to taste the potatoes as you go, adjusting the seasoning to suit your preferences. It’s also important to add salt to the water when boiling the potatoes to enhance their natural flavor.

Conclusion

Herb and Garlic Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes offer a perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and versatility. By utilizing the Instant Pot, you can create creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional methods, making it an ideal choice for busy home cooks. The combination of Yukon Gold potatoes, savory garlic, and fragrant herbs creates a comforting dish that pairs well with a wide variety of main courses.