How to Make Instant Mashed Potatoes Taste Better

Upgrade your classic mashed potatoes with this irresistible recipe! Bursting with creamy richness and savory flavors, this easy recipe will show you how to make instant mashed potatoes taste better!

With just a few simple additions like butter, cream cheese, and a blend of aromatic herbs, you’ll transform instant mashed potatoes into a culinary delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Your family will love this recipe because it transforms simple instant mashed potatoes into a creamy, flavorful delight with buttery richness, tangy cream cheese, and aromatic herbs. Quick, easy, and versatile, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Instant Mashed Potatoes

Each ingredient in the recipe plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor, texture, and overall appeal of the mashed potatoes:

** You can find the full recipe ingredients and instructions on the printable recipe card below.

• Butter: Butter adds richness, creaminess, and a subtle flavor that complements the potatoes. It also helps to make the mashed potatoes smoother and more luxurious.
• Water or Chicken Stock: Using water or chicken stock instead of plain water adds depth of flavor to the potatoes. Chicken stock, in particular, infuses the potatoes with savory notes and enhances their overall taste.
• Milk: Milk contributes to the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes. It helps to loosen the mixture and make it easier to blend, resulting in a smoother consistency.
• Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning the potatoes and bringing out their natural flavors. It balances the other flavors in the dish and prevents it from tasting bland.
• Pepper: Pepper adds a hint of warmth and spiciness to the mashed potatoes, enhancing their flavor profile and making them more interesting to the palate.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These two ingredients provide additional layers of flavor to the mashed potatoes. Garlic powder adds a savory, garlicky taste, while onion powder contributes a subtle sweetness and depth.
• Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds richness, tanginess, and creaminess to the mashed potatoes. It also helps to stabilize the mixture and prevent it from becoming too runny.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess to the mashed potatoes, making them smoother and more flavorful. It also helps to balance the richness of the other ingredients.
• Parsley and Chives: These fresh herbs provide a burst of color, freshness, and herbaceous flavor to the mashed potatoes. They add visual appeal and a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the dish.

How to Make Instant Mashed Potatoes Taste Better

Learn how to make instant mashed potatoes taste better by following these easy steps:

** You can find the full recipe ingredients and instructions on the printable recipe card below.

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Cook your instant mashed potatoes according to the package instructions, using 1-2/3 cups of water or chicken stock instead of just water for extra flavor.
2. Enhance with Butter: Cut 1/2 stick of butter into small pieces and mix it into the cooked potatoes while they are still hot. This will add richness and creaminess to the dish.
3. Add Creaminess: Incorporate 2/3 to 3/4 cup of milk into the potatoes to achieve your desired consistency. Start with 2/3 cup and add more if needed. Creaminess is key to delicious mashed potatoes.
4. Season Well: Season the mashed potatoes with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as everyone’s preferences vary.
5. Creamy Texture: Blend in 2 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of sour cream. These ingredients will add a velvety texture and tangy flavor to the potatoes.
6. Finishing Touches: Stir in 1 tablespoon each of minced parsley and minced chives for freshness and a pop of color. These herbs will elevate the flavor profile of your mashed potatoes.
7. Serve Warm: Once everything is well combined, serve your enhanced mashed potatoes immediately while they’re still warm for the best taste and texture.

Why this Recipe Works

1. Quick and Easy: With the use of instant mashed potatoes, this recipe significantly reduces the time and effort required to make a delicious side dish. Busy families can enjoy homemade mashed potatoes without the lengthy preparation typically associated with peeling, boiling, and mashing whole potatoes.
2. Minimal Ingredients: The recipe calls for simple and readily available ingredients that are likely already stocked in most kitchens. This means less time spent shopping for specialty items and more time enjoying a satisfying meal with loved ones.
3. Versatile: These enhanced mashed potatoes can complement a wide range of main dishes, making them a versatile side option for busy weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Whether paired with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty stew, these mashed potatoes will surely please even the pickiest eaters in the family.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe can be easily scaled up to accommodate larger family gatherings or prepared in advance for busy weeknights. Simply reheat the mashed potatoes when ready to serve, allowing for more flexibility in meal planning and reducing last-minute stress.
5. Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and flavorful seasoning of these mashed potatoes are sure to appeal to children, making them a hit with the whole family. By incorporating familiar ingredients like butter, cream cheese, and mild spices, this recipe offers a comforting and satisfying side dish that even the little ones will love.

Recipe Tips and Kitchen Tricks

1. Consistency Control: Adjust the amount of milk according to your desired consistency. Start with less milk and gradually add more until you reach your preferred texture.
2. Flavor Enhancement: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding grated cheese such as cheddar or Parmesan to the mashed potatoes. The cheese will melt into the mixture, adding richness and depth of flavor.
3. Customize Seasoning: Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. You can experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika, to create your unique flavor profile.
4. Creaminess Trick: To achieve ultra-creamy mashed potatoes, use a potato masher or fork to break down the potatoes first, then switch to a hand mixer [paid link] or stand mixer [paid link] for a smoother consistency.

Recipe Variations

• Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Top your mashed potatoes with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions for a loaded twist.
• Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Stir in roasted garlic cloves and grated Parmesan cheese for a rich and savory flavor profile.
• Creamy Ranch Mashed Potatoes: Mix in a packet of ranch seasoning mix for a tangy and zesty flavor boost.
• Cheesy Broccoli Mashed Potatoes: Fold in steamed broccoli florets and shredded sharp cheddar cheese for a comforting and nutritious variation.

Storing, freezing, and reheating instructions

Storing:

1. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely to room temperature.
2. Transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
3. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing:

1. It is not recommended to freeze leftover instant mashed potatoes.

Reheating: For refrigerated mashed potatoes:

1. Transfer the desired amount of mashed potatoes to a microwave-safe dish.
2. Microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
3. Alternatively, reheat the mashed potatoes on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to maintain a creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Drink Pairings

Remember, personal preferences play a role, so feel free to explore and discover your favorite pairings!

Family-Friendly Drink Pairings:

1. Apple Cider: Pair your mashed potatoes with a glass of refreshing apple cider for a classic and family-friendly combination.
2. Lemonade: The bright and tangy flavors of lemonade complement the creamy richness of mashed potatoes, making it a perfect pairing for a family meal.
3. Iced Tea: A cold glass of iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, is a versatile and refreshing beverage that pairs well with mashed potatoes.

Wine Pairings:

1. Chardonnay: The buttery notes of Chardonnay complement the creamy texture of mashed potatoes, while its acidity helps cut through the richness.
2. Pinot Noir: The light-bodied and fruity character of Pinot Noir pairs well with mashed potatoes, adding a subtle earthiness and complexity to the meal.
3. Riesling: The sweetness and acidity of Riesling balance the savory flavors of mashed potatoes, creating a harmonious and enjoyable pairing.

Cocktail Pairings:

1. Moscow Mule: The spicy kick of ginger beer in a Moscow Mule complements the savory flavors of mashed potatoes, making it a refreshing and flavorful cocktail pairing.
2. Bloody Mary: The bold and tangy flavors of Bloody Mary add depth and complexity to the meal, creating a delicious contrast with the creamy mashed potatoes.
3. Old Fashioned: The smooth and subtle sweetness of an Old Fashioned pair well with mashed potatoes, providing a sophisticated and elegant accompaniment to the dish.

Beer Pairings:

1. Wheat Beer: The light and crisp profile of a wheat beer pairs nicely with mashed potatoes, cleansing the palate and refreshing the taste buds.
2. Stout: The rich and roasted flavors of a stout beer complement the creamy texture of mashed potatoes, adding depth and complexity to the meal.
3. Pilsner: The clean and crisp finish of a pilsner beer provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of mashed potatoes, making it a versatile and enjoyable pairing option.

How to Make Instant Mashed Potatoes Taste Better

Ronda Eagle | Kitchen Dreaming

Upgrade your classic mashed potatoes with this irresistible recipe! Bursting with creamy richness and savory flavors, this easy recipe will show you how to make instant mashed potatoes taste better! With just a few simple additions like butter, cream cheese, and a blend of aromatic herbs, you'll transform ordinary instant mashed potatoes into a culinary delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Course Side Dish, sides, Vegetable Sides

Cuisine American

Servings 4 Servings

Calories 106 kcal

Ingredients

  

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• 1/2 stick butter
• 1-2/3 cup water or chicken stock
• 2/3 to 3/4 cup milk depending on thickness
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 oz cream cheese , softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp minced parsley
• 1 tbsp minced chives

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Potatoes: Cook your instant mashed potatoes according to the package instructions, using 1-2/3 cups of water or chicken stock instead of just water for extra flavor.
• Enhance with Butter: Cut 1/2 stick of butter into small pieces and mix it into the cooked potatoes while they are still hot. This will add richness and creaminess to the dish.
• Add Creaminess: Incorporate 2/3 to 3/4 cup of milk into the potatoes to achieve your desired consistency. Start with 2/3 cup and add more if needed. Creaminess is key to delicious mashed potatoes.
• Season Well: Season the mashed potatoes with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as everyone’s preferences vary.
• Creamy Texture: Blend in 2 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of sour cream. These ingredients will add a velvety texture and tangy flavor to the potatoes.
• Finishing Touches: Stir in 1 tablespoon each of minced parsley and minced chives for freshness and a pop of color. These herbs will elevate the flavor profile of your mashed potatoes.
• Serve Warm: Once everything is well combined, serve your enhanced mashed potatoes immediately while they’re still warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

Storing:

1. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely to room temperature.
2. Transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
3. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing:

1. It is not recommended to freeze leftover instant mashed potatoes.

Reheating: For refrigerated mashed potatoes:

1. Transfer the desired amount of mashed potatoes to a microwave-safe dish.
2. Microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
3. Alternatively, reheat the mashed potatoes on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to maintain a creamy consistency.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 106kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 3gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 28mgSodium: 358mgPotassium: 112mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 431IUVitamin C: 2mgVitamin D: 0.4µgVitamin E: 0.2mgVitamin K: 17µgCalcium: 82mgFolate: 4µgIron: 0.1mgZinc: 0.3mg

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