Creamy Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Transform your dinner table with the ultimate comfort food: incredibly creamy, intensely flavorful Instant Pot mashed potatoes. This revolutionary no-drain recipe simplifies the classic side dish, allowing you to whip up perfectly fluffy, garlicky mashed potatoes in under 30 minutes. Say goodbye to guesswork and endless boiling; your electric pressure cooker makes achieving restaurant-quality mashed potatoes easier than ever, ensuring they become a staple in your weeknight rotation and a highlight of your holiday feasts.

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Why Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes? The Ultimate Comfort Food, Made Easy

Mashed potatoes are a timeless comfort food, a creamy, savory cornerstone of countless meals. But achieving that perfect balance of fluffy texture and rich flavor can sometimes feel like a labor of love. Enter the Instant Pot, your culinary superpower for making the best garlic mashed potatoes with unprecedented ease and speed.

• **Effortless Creaminess:** The Instant Pot steams the potatoes to absolute perfection, creating an incredibly tender base that mashes into a silky, smooth consistency effortlessly. No more lumpy disasters!
• **Infused Garlic Flavor:** By cooking smashed garlic cloves directly with the potatoes, the flavors meld beautifully, infusing every bite with a subtle yet potent garlic essence that elevates the entire dish.
• **No-Drain Simplicity:** This recipe is designed to be “no drain,” meaning you don’t have to deal with the messy and sometimes dangerous task of pouring out hot potato water. The minimal liquid used perfectly steams the potatoes, which then gets absorbed or becomes part of the creamy mixture.
• **Speed and Efficiency:** From start to finish, you can have these delectable mashed potatoes on your table in under 30 minutes. This includes pressure build-up and cook time, making it an ideal side for busy weeknights or when you need a quick addition to a larger meal.
• **Consistent Results Every Time:** The controlled environment of the Instant Pot ensures consistent cooking, eliminating the common pitfalls of stovetop methods like uneven cooking or waterlogged potatoes.
• **A Crowd-Pleaser:** With their rich flavor and irresistible texture, these Instant Pot garlic mashed potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, even the pickiest eaters in your household. It’s comfort food simplified, but with all the deliciousness you crave.

This recipe offers a delicious and efficient way to enjoy classic mashed potatoes, quickly becoming a family favorite. The minimal effort required means you can enjoy a flavorful side dish with every meal, turning ordinary dinners into extraordinary ones.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Creating truly delicious mashed potatoes starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that creamy texture and rich flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need for this incredibly easy Instant Pot recipe:

• **Yukon Gold Potatoes:** These are the star of the show. Yukon Golds are prized for their naturally buttery flavor, thin skin (which means less or no peeling!), and creamy texture when cooked. Their moderate starch content makes them ideal for mashing, ensuring a fluffy, not gummy, result. You’ll need about 3 pounds, peeled if desired, and quartered into roughly 1.5-inch chunks for even cooking.
• **Water:** A small amount of water (about ½ cup) is essential for the Instant Pot to build pressure and steam the potatoes perfectly. This minimal amount ensures a “no-drain” recipe, keeping all the potato flavor intact.
• **Unsalted Butter:** Room temperature butter, about 4 tablespoons, melts beautifully into the hot potatoes, adding rich flavor and contributing significantly to the creamy texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• **Sour Cream:** A ¼ cup of sour cream adds a wonderful tang and extra creaminess, balancing the richness of the butter and milk. It also helps achieve that desirable fluffy consistency. Full-fat sour cream is recommended for the best results.
• **Whole Milk:** Anywhere from ½ to ¾ cup of whole milk is incorporated to adjust the consistency, making the potatoes perfectly creamy and smooth. You might need slightly more or less depending on your desired thickness. For an even richer dish, heavy cream or half-and-half can be substituted.
• **Fresh Garlic Cloves:** Four smashed cloves of fresh garlic are key to the “garlic” in Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Cooking them with the potatoes ensures their aromatic oils infuse the potatoes deeply.
• **Salt and Black Pepper:** Essential seasonings! Start with 1 ½ teaspoons of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, then taste and adjust to your preference. Don’t be shy about seasoning; it brings out all the flavors.
• **Optional Garlic Powder:** While the fresh garlic provides a robust flavor, a ½ teaspoon of garlic powder can be added at the end for an extra punch of garlic, especially if you love a strong garlic profile. Taste first, as it might not be necessary.

By using these simple yet high-quality ingredients, you’re set to create an unforgettable side dish that tastes homemade and gourmet, all thanks to the magic of your Instant Pot.

Recommended Tools for This Recipe

Making Instant Pot mashed potatoes requires just a few key kitchen tools, making the process even simpler. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure perfect results:

• **Instant Pot (6 Quart or larger):** This is the star appliance of this recipe. A 6-quart model is perfectly suitable for a batch of 3 pounds of potatoes, but a larger size will also work. The Instant Pot allows for rapid, even cooking and creates perfectly tender potatoes without the need for boiling or draining.
• **Potato Masher or Hand Mixer:** Depending on your desired consistency, either a classic potato masher or an electric hand mixer will get the job done. A masher gives you a more rustic texture with some small potato bits, while a hand mixer will produce incredibly smooth and creamy mashed potatoes.
• **Cheesecloth (optional but recommended):** For containing the smashed garlic cloves during cooking, a small piece of cheesecloth is highly recommended. This allows the garlic flavor to infuse the potatoes without having to pick out cooked garlic bits later.

These simple tools, combined with the power of your Instant Pot, will make preparing homemade mashed potatoes a breeze. You can also visit my Amazon storefront for some of my favorite kitchen products that make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes in your Instant Pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect side dish every time:

1. **Prepare the Instant Pot:** Pour ½ cup of water into the inner pot of your Instant Pot.
2. **Infuse Garlic:** Take your 4 smashed garlic cloves and wrap them in a small piece of cheesecloth, tying it securely to create a sachet. This allows the garlic essence to permeate the potatoes without leaving bits of garlic in your mash. Place the garlic sachet into the Instant Pot with the water.
3. **Add Potatoes:** Add the quartered (about 1.5-inch chunks) Yukon Gold potatoes directly into the pot, on top of the garlic sachet. You do not need to use a trivet.
4. **Pressure Cook:** Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensure the venting knob is set to “Sealing,” and pressure cook on High for 8 minutes.
5. **Quick Release:** Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully turning the venting knob to “Venting.” Be cautious of the hot steam. Once the float valve drops, you can safely open the lid.
6. **Mash Potatoes:** Carefully remove the garlic sachet from the pot. Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the hot potatoes directly in the Instant Pot until they reach your desired consistency – from slightly chunky to perfectly smooth.
7. **Add Creaminess:** Incorporate the room temperature butter, sour cream, and whole milk into the mashed potatoes. Mix until everything is well combined and the potatoes are luxuriously creamy.
8. **Season to Taste:** Season the mashed potatoes with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you desire an extra garlic kick, add the optional garlic powder and mix thoroughly.
9. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish your creamy Instant Pot garlic mashed potatoes with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives, and serve immediately as a delicious side dish.

With these simple steps, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked, flavorful mashed potatoes that will impress everyone at your table!

Delicious Flavor Variations & Additions

While classic Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes are undeniably delicious, there are many ways to customize them to your personal taste. Here are some fantastic variations and additions to experiment with:

• **Boost the Richness:** For an even more decadent mash, swap out the whole milk for heavy cream or half-and-half. This will add a luxurious richness and extra velvety texture.
• **Savory Liquid Base:** Instead of water, use chicken broth or vegetable broth to cook your potatoes. This infuses them with a deeper, more savory flavor right from the start.
• **Alternative Creamy Agents:** If sour cream isn’t your preference, try substituting it with cream cheese for a richer, tangier profile, or Greek yogurt for a lighter, slightly tart option that still provides creaminess.
• **Cheesy Goodness:** Who can resist cheesy mashed potatoes? Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, Gruyere, or any other shredded cheese you love, immediately after mashing, allowing it to melt into the hot potatoes for a gooey, flavorful addition.
• **Different Potato Varieties:** While Yukon Gold potatoes are highly recommended for their buttery flavor and texture, red potatoes also work exceptionally well for mashed potatoes. They have thin skins and a slightly waxy texture that holds up beautifully to mashing. Russet potatoes can also be used, but for optimal results, they should be peeled due to their thicker skins.
• **Herbaceous Notes:** Garnish your finished mashed potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, chives, or even rosemary for a burst of color and fresh herbaceous flavor. You can also mix a small amount of finely chopped herbs directly into the mash.
• **Roasted Garlic Magic:** For an even deeper, sweeter garlic flavor, consider roasting whole heads of garlic beforehand. Squeeze the soft roasted garlic cloves into the mashed potatoes instead of using fresh smashed garlic.
• **Spice It Up:** A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika can add a subtle warmth and complexity to your mashed potatoes.
• **Crispy Toppings:** For added texture, consider topping your mashed potatoes with crispy fried onions, crumbled bacon bits, or toasted breadcrumbs before serving.

These variations offer endless possibilities, allowing you to tailor your Instant Pot mashed potatoes to complement any meal or satisfy any craving.

Expert Tips for Success

Achieving perfectly creamy, flavorful Instant Pot mashed potatoes is easy, especially with these insider tips and tricks:

• **Smash Your Garlic Right:** To properly smash garlic cloves, place them on a cutting board, lay a chef’s knife blade flat over the clove with the sharp edge facing away from you, and firmly smack the blade with the heel of your hand. This technique effectively bruises the garlic, releasing its aromatic oils and ensuring maximum flavor infusion into your potatoes during cooking.
• **To Peel or Not to Peel:** Yukon Gold potatoes have wonderfully thin skins, so peeling them is entirely optional. Leaving the skins on adds a rustic touch and boosts fiber content, making the recipe even quicker. If you prefer a completely smooth mash, go ahead and peel them. Russet potatoes, on the other hand, have thicker skins and are generally best peeled for mashed potato recipes.
• **Consistent Potato Chunks:** For even cooking, ensure your potato chunks are roughly the same size. If your potatoes are very large, cut them into pieces approximately 1 ½ inches in size. Quartering is often sufficient for medium-sized potatoes. Uniform chunks mean every piece cooks thoroughly at the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked while others turn mushy.
• **Seasoning is Key (and Customizable!):** After mixing in all the creamy ingredients, always taste your mashed potatoes before adding the optional garlic powder. The fresh garlic cooked with the potatoes often provides ample flavor. If you find they need an extra boost or you simply love a very strong garlic profile, then add the garlic powder. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking as well; a well-seasoned mash makes all the difference.
• **Choose Your Mashing Tool:** The tool you use for mashing significantly impacts the texture. A traditional hand potato masher will yield a slightly chunky, wonderfully rustic mashed potato. If you prefer a super smooth, almost whipped consistency, an electric hand mixer is your best friend. Be careful not to overmix, especially with a hand mixer, as this can activate too much starch and lead to a gummy texture. Mash or mix until just smooth.
• **Warm Ingredients for Best Results:** For the creamiest mashed potatoes, ensure your butter, milk, and sour cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can cool down the hot potatoes and make it harder to achieve a smooth, emulsified texture.
• **Don’t Overcrowd the Pot:** While the Instant Pot is efficient, avoid overfilling it. Stick to the recipe’s recommended potato amount for optimal pressure building and cooking.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making perfect Instant Pot garlic mashed potatoes every time, a dish that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Mashed potatoes are often so delicious that there are no leftovers, but if you do find yourself with extra, proper storage and reheating techniques will ensure they remain just as delightful.

Store leftover Instant Pot mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure they cool completely before covering and refrigerating to prevent condensation and maintain texture.

How to Reheat Mashed Potatoes

The best way to reheat mashed potatoes to restore their creamy texture is on the stovetop. Transfer the leftover mashed potatoes to a saucepan. Add a splash of milk or broth (about 1-2 tablespoons per cup of potatoes) if they appear too thick or dry. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are thoroughly heated through and regain their creamy consistency. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry them out.

Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave. Place the mashed potatoes in a microwave-safe dish, add a tablespoon or two of milk or broth, cover loosely, and microwave for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot. This method is quicker but can sometimes result in slightly drier edges if not stirred well.

Perfect Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Instant Pot garlic mashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that complements a wide array of main courses. Their rich flavor and comforting texture make them a perfect pairing for many meals. Here are some of our favorite combinations:

• **Classic Meat Dishes:** Mashed potatoes are an iconic partner for hearty meat dishes. They pair exceptionally well with Salsa Meatloaf, soaking up all the delicious juices, or with juicy, perfectly seasoned Baked Fried Chicken Tenders.
• **Poultry Perfection:** Elevate your poultry dishes! These mashed potatoes are divine alongside my fall-off-the-bone Crock Pot Cornish Hen recipe, providing a comforting counterpoint to the tender meat. They also complement roasted chicken, turkey, or even pan-seared duck breast.
• **Steak and Chops:** For a more elegant meal, serve them alongside a perfectly cooked steak, lamb chops, or pork tenderloin. The potatoes’ creaminess provides a beautiful contrast to the savory richness of the meat.
• **Gravy’s Best Friend:** Mashed potatoes are simply incomplete without a generous pour of gravy. Whether it’s a rich beef gravy, a savory chicken gravy, or a vegetarian mushroom gravy, they are the ultimate vehicle for soaking up all that deliciousness.
• **Vegetarian Mains:** Don’t forget vegetarian options! These mashed potatoes can be a fantastic base for hearty vegetable stews, alongside roasted root vegetables, or as a comforting component of a vegetarian shepherd’s pie.

No matter what main dish you choose, these Instant Pot garlic mashed potatoes are sure to be a beloved and devoured addition to your meal.

Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes for Easier Meal Prep

If you’re looking to save time in the kitchen, especially for holidays or busy weeknights, preparing your mashed potatoes ahead of time is a fantastic strategy. While fresh is always best, this method ensures you still get deliciously creamy results without the last-minute rush.

To make these Instant Pot mashed potatoes ahead, follow the cooking directions for the potatoes in the Instant Pot and mash them thoroughly, but **do not add the butter, milk, or sour cream** at this stage. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days.

When you are ready to serve, transfer the mashed potatoes to a large saucepan over medium-low heat. In a separate small saucepan, gently warm the butter, milk, and sour cream until hot but not boiling. Pour the warm creamy mixture into the potatoes, stirring constantly until the potatoes are heated through and regain their smooth, creamy consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder to taste before serving. This gradual reheating with warmed dairy ensures your mashed potatoes are perfectly creamy and flavorful, just as if they were made fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

More Delicious Potato Recipes to Explore

If you love potatoes, especially in their mashed form, you’re in for a treat! Here are some other fantastic potato-centric recipes from my kitchen that you might enjoy:

• These Cheesy Mashed Potatoes are the perfect blend of creamy potato and rich cheese, a truly classic combination. They are especially wonderful for holidays and family gatherings!
• Looking for creative ways to use up any leftover mashed potatoes? They would work perfectly as a topping for these savory Easy Meatloaf Cupcakes or incorporated into this comforting One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe.
• For a delightful appetizer or a unique side dish, these Crispy Potato Balls are a must-try. They are crispy on the outside and wonderfully cheesy on the inside, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Discover the irresistible charm of Potato Croquettes. These golden-brown, savory bites are perfect for any occasion, serving as an elegant appetizer or a delightful accompaniment to your favorite meals.

I hope you enjoyed this recipe for Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you loved most about it. If you tried the recipe, don’t forget to give it a 5-star rating!

Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potato is the ultimate comfort food that is so rich and flavorful and takes only 30 minutes in your Instant Pot.

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Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Time to reach pressure: 10 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Calories: 216 kcal
Author: Amira

Ingredients

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled if desired, then quartered
• ½ cup water
• 4 Tablespoons butter, room temperature
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ½-¾ cup whole milk
• 4 Garlic cloves, smashed
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional:

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Pour water into the inner pot of your Instant Pot.
2. Place smashed garlic in a small piece of cheesecloth and tie the top to form a sachet.
3. Place the garlic sachet into the pot, then top with the cut potatoes.
4. Put the Instant Pot lid on, seal it, and pressure cook on high for 8 minutes.
5. Manually release the pressure, then carefully open the lid once the float valve drops.
6. Remove the cheesecloth sachet and mash the potatoes while hot to your desired consistency.
7. Mix in the room temperature milk, butter, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
8. Season with salt and pepper, and optional garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking.

Notes

• Peeling the potatoes is optional; leaving the skin on makes for an easier recipe and adds a rustic texture.
• For more detailed tips, variations, and storage instructions, refer to the post above.
• Please check the nutrition disclaimer policy.

Nutrition

Calories: 216kcal |
Carbohydrates: 42g |
Protein: 6g |
Fat: 3g |
Saturated Fat: 2g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 9mg |
Sodium: 618mg |
Potassium: 1024mg |
Fiber: 5g |
Sugar: 4g |
Vitamin A: 116IU |
Vitamin C: 45mg |
Calcium: 79mg |
Iron: 2mg

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