Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
This instant pot mashed potatoes recipe is my shortcut to the creamiest, most flavorful spuds without the fuss. No peeling required! It’s fast, easy, and tastes like it cooked all afternoon.
Table of Contents
I love a Good Side Dish
I love a good side dish that tastes homemade without taking all day, and these Instant Pot mashed potatoes check every box. In just 10 minutes, Yukon Gold potatoes cook up tender and flavorful—I like to leave the skins on for that rustic texture (and honestly, the extra flavor is so worth it). They mash up buttery, creamy, and seasoned just right with garlic powder and a little pepper for that cozy, from-scratch taste.
This recipe makes enough to feed the whole table, and the best part is you can freeze the leftovers for a quick side on busy nights. It’s simple, comforting, and proves you don’t need hours in the kitchen to make something your family will love—just like my easy scalloped potatoes.
Want to save this recipe?
Enter your email & I'll send it to your inbox. Plus, get great new recipes from me every week!
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Gold potatoes: Naturally creamy with a buttery flavor. Their thin skin means you can skip peeling for more texture and less prep. Russet potatoes can be used for a fluffier mash.
- Water: Helps steam the potatoes in the Instant Pot. Vegetable or chicken broth can be used for extra flavor.
- Butter: Adds richness and a silky finish. Use salted or unsalted depending on your taste.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes. Adjust to preference.
- Garlic powder: Gives a mild, savory garlic flavor without overpowering. You can use fresh roasted garlic for a bolder taste.
- Black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and spice. White pepper can be used for a milder flavor.
How to Make Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Preparation
Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Cut the butter into chunks and measure out all remaining ingredients so they’re ready to go.
Step 1 – Load the Instant Pot
Place the whole gold potatoes into the Instant Pot. Pour in the water, then add the butter, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Step 2 – Pressure Cook the Potatoes
Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealed, and cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
Step 3 – Quick Release & Mash
Once the cooking time is done, use the Quick Release method to release the steam. Carefully open the lid and mash the potatoes until mostly smooth.
Step 4 – Whip & Adjust
Use a hand mixer to whip the potatoes for a creamier texture. Add milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5 – Serve Hot
Spoon into a serving dish and enjoy immediately, seasoning more to taste if desired.
Lynette’s Tip
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for the best flavor and texture. Their thin skins mean no peeling is needed, which saves time and keeps the potatoes tasting homemade.
What to Serve With
- These mashed potatoes are a natural fit for weeknight dinners or holiday meals. Their buttery, creamy texture works well alongside roast chicken, old-fashioned beef stew, or baked salmon.
- They pair beautifully with comfort food favorites like venison meatloaf or turkey dinner. Don’t wait until Thanksgiving to enjoy them – make them any time you want a hearty, homemade side.
- They’re also great as a base for dishes like shepherd’s pie or served under a ladle of rich gravy. The garlic flavor in this version complements both classic brown gravy and creamy white sauces.
More Potato Recipes You’ll Enjoy
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 3 pounds gold potatoes
- 1 Cup Water
- 1/2 Cup Butter cut into chunks
- 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Wash the potatoes and place them whole into the Instant Pot. Add the remaining ingredients on top.
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “High Pressure,” making sure the valve is sealed, then cook for 10 minutes.
- When the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure using the “Quick Release” method and remove the lid.
- Mash the potatoes, then use a hand mixer to whip them until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Notes
Variations:
- Change the Potatoes: Use russet potatoes for a fluffier texture or red potatoes for a creamier, slightly sweeter mash. You can also mix different types for more flavor depth.
- Add Extra Flavor: Stir in roasted garlic, fresh herbs like chives or parsley, or caramelized onions after mashing.
- Make Them Creamier: Swap some of the water for chicken broth, or stir in heavy cream, sour cream, or cream cheese for a richer mash.
Nutrition
Recipe FAQs
No. Yukon Gold potatoes have thin skins that add texture and flavor. You can peel them if you prefer a smoother mash, but it’s not necessary.
Mash with warm milk, cream, or sour cream until you reach your desired texture. Butter adds richness, while garlic powder gives extra flavor.
