Mashed Potatoes in the Instant Pot

Looking for the easiest way to make mashed potatoes in the Instant Pot? This recipe gives you fluffy, creamy, buttery mashed potatoes in under 30 minutes—no need to boil a pot of water! Perfect for busy weeknights, holidays, or whenever you crave comfort food.

This recipe is adapted and simplified from Pressure Cook Recipes and Simply Recipes—two trusted sources for Instant Pot meals.

Mashed Potatoes in the Instant Pot 

– Creamy & Easy Recipe

📝 Ingredients

🔹2 lbs (about 6 medium) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled & cut into chunks

🔹1 cup water (for pressure cooking)

🔹4 tablespoons unsalted butter

🔹½ cup whole milk (warm)

🔹½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

🔹¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional: 2 cloves garlic (peeled, for garlic mashed potatoes)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Mashed Potatoes in the Instant Pot

1. Prepare the potatoes

🔸Peel and cut potatoes into even chunks (about 1–2 inches).

2. Pressure cook

🔸Add 1 cup water to the Instant Pot.

🔸Place potatoes (and optional garlic) inside.

🔸Seal the lid and set to Manual / High Pressure for 8 minutes.

🔸Quick release the pressure when done.

3. Mash the potatoes

🔸Drain excess water.

🔸Add butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper.

🔸Mash using a potato masher until smooth and creamy.

4. Serve warm

🔸Transfer to a serving bowl, top with extra butter or fresh herbs.

⭐ Pro Tips

👉Use Yukon Golds for creamy, buttery mash; Russets for fluffy texture.

👉Warm the milk before adding—it keeps potatoes light and smooth.

👉Don’t over-mash, or potatoes may turn gluey.

👉Add sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness.

🍴 Serving & Variations

Classic style: With butter and fresh parsley.

Garlic mashed potatoes: Pressure cook with garlic cloves.

Cheesy mash: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan.

Loaded mash: Top with bacon, chives, and sour cream.

✅ Conclusion

Making mashed potatoes in the Instant Pot is quick, easy, and foolproof. With simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you’ll have the ultimate side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or weeknight dinners. 

Creamy, buttery, and delicious—this will be your go-to mashed potato recipe!