“`html
There is nothing quite as comforting and crowd-pleasing as creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes, and this Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes for a Crowd Recipe brings that classic side dish to the next level with ease and speed. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any time you need to feed a crowd without slaving away over a stove, this recipe uses simple ingredients that blend beautifully together in the Instant Pot, delivering melt-in-your-mouth mashed potatoes in a fraction of the usual time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these mashed potatoes will quickly become your go-to for any big occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes for a Crowd Recipe keeps the ingredient list straightforward but purposeful—each one enhancing the flavor, creaminess, and aroma that make mashed potatoes so irresistible. With only a handful of pantry staples and fresh additions, your mashed potatoes will have the perfect balance of herbs, richness, and a velvety texture.
- Russet Potatoes: 5 pounds of these starchy potatoes give the fluffiest mash and absorb flavors wonderfully.
- Minced Garlic: 1 tablespoon adds a gentle but essential depth of flavor that complements the herbs.
- Dried Parsley: 1 tablespoon brings a splash of green and a mild, fresh herbal note.
- Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon contributes a subtle, sweet earthiness that rounds out the seasoning.
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon imparts a fragrant, slightly floral touch for complexity.
- Salt: 2 teaspoons to season perfectly and bring out all the layers of flavor in the potatoes.
- Pepper: 1 teaspoon for just a whisper of mild heat and brightness.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons for delicious richness and a smooth finish.
- Sour Cream: 1/2 cup adds creaminess and a tangy balance that lifts the dish.
- Milk: 1/2 cup to loosen the potatoes to the ideal consistency without making them runny.
How to Make Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes for a Crowd Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling your russet potatoes and cutting them into quarters. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly inside your Instant Pot, giving you perfectly tender potatoes ready for mashing.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Water to the Instant Pot
Place your prepared potatoes into the pressure cooker’s pot. Pour in enough water to just barely cover the potatoes, being mindful not to exceed the max fill line. Leaving some exposed potato will not affect the cooking but prevents any overflows—hassle-free cooking at its best!
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Seal the lid tightly, set the steam vent to sealing, and choose the manual or pressure cook setting at high pressure. Let it cook for 15 minutes; note that the Instant Pot will take 20 to 30 minutes to build up full pressure due to the large volume of water and potatoes, so plan accordingly.
Step 4: Prepare the Flavor Mix
While the potatoes are cooking, grab a large mixing bowl. Add your minced garlic, dried parsley, basil, thyme, salt, pepper, butter, sour cream, and milk to this bowl, combining the base flavors your mashed potatoes will soak up once they’re ready.
Step 5: Release Pressure and Transfer Potatoes
Once cooking is complete, carefully perform a quick release on the steam vent using a kitchen tool—watch out for steam. After the float valve drops, open the lid and use a slotted spoon to transfer the potatoes to your flavor bowl, letting excess water drain back into the pot.
Step 6: Mash and Mix
Let your drained potatoes rest over the butter and milk mixture for a few minutes so everything warms up and blends beautifully. Then, with a potato masher, mash the potatoes to your preferred texture. Feel free to add more milk if you want your mash extra creamy and smooth.
Step 7: Keep Warm or Serve
Serve your mashed potatoes immediately for the best texture and warmth. If you prefer to keep them warm before serving, simply drain any remaining water from the Instant Pot and transfer the mashed potatoes back to the pot using the “Keep Warm” mode to hold perfect temperature.
How to Serve Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes for a Crowd Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or parsley over the top adds a bright pop of color and fresh flavor. You can also dot a pat of butter or swirl some more sour cream to make the presentation even more inviting.
Side Dishes
These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roast chicken, glazed ham, or even a juicy steak. A rich gravy drizzled over the top complements the creamy texture perfectly, making the meal feel indulgent and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, mound the mashed potatoes onto a serving platter, and create little peaks for a rustic look. Top with toasted garlic crumbs or crumbled bacon for an irresistible crunch that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out and maintain that creamy texture.
Freezing
This Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes for a Crowd Recipe freezes very well. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat mashed potatoes gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Stir often and add a splash of milk or cream to bring back their creamy softness. Using the Instant Pot on “Keep Warm” or the oven at low temperature also works great for gentle warming.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes for a Crowd Recipe?
Russet potatoes offer the best fluffiness, but Yukon Golds can also be used for a smoother, creamier texture. Avoid waxy potatoes as they tend to become gluey when mashed.
Do I need to soak the potatoes before cooking?
Not necessary for this recipe since the potatoes cook under pressure. Peeling and quartering them is enough to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
Can I add cream cheese or other dairy for extra richness?
Absolutely! Cream cheese, heavy cream, or even some grated cheddar can be stirred in after mashing for a richer, more decadent flavor.
Is it okay to skip the herbs?
Yes, you can omit the herbs if you prefer a simple classic version. However, they really enhance the flavor profile and add that homemade touch that makes this recipe special.
How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from being watery?
Drain the potatoes well before mashing and add liquids gradually. Also, letting the potatoes rest a few minutes with the butter and milk allows excess moisture to absorb, preventing a watery mash.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes for a Crowd Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone who loves comfort food but wants to save time and effort. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for bringing people together around the table without last-minute stress. I promise, once you try it, these mashed potatoes will become a beloved staple for every gathering you host.
“`
Print
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes for a Crowd Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (plus 20-30 minutes preheating time)
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd, delivering creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes quickly and easily. Using the pressure cooker reduces cooking time significantly while infusing the potatoes with garlic and herbs for a deliciously rich side dish.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 5 pounds Russet Potatoes
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Other Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and quarter cut all of the russet potatoes to ensure they cook evenly and quickly in the Instant Pot.
- Add Potatoes to Pressure Cooker: Place the prepped potatoes into the pot of the pressure cooker. Cover with water carefully without exceeding the maximum fill level; the potatoes can remain slightly uncovered if necessary.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the lid, turn the steam vent to sealing, and select manual or pressure cook setting. Set to high pressure for 15 minutes. Note that due to the large volume of water, the pressure cooker will take 20-30 minutes to preheat before the actual cooking begins.
- Prepare Mixing Bowl: While the potatoes cook, in a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, dried parsley, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, pepper, butter, sour cream, and milk. This will be the base for mashing the potatoes.
- Release Pressure and Drain Potatoes: When cooking is complete, carefully perform a quick release of the steam vent. Once the float valve drops, open the lid. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the potatoes into the large bowl containing the seasoned mixture, allowing as much water to drain as possible.
- Rest and Mash: Let the potatoes rest on top of the other ingredients for 3-4 minutes, allowing the residual heat to warm the milk, butter, and sour cream. Then use a potato masher to mash the potatoes to your preferred consistency. Add more milk or butter as needed for desired creaminess.
- Serve or Keep Warm: Serve immediately or keep warm by draining the pot and returning the mashed potatoes to the Instant Pot to retain warmth until ready to serve.
Notes
- Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their starchy texture.
- Adjust seasoning (salt and pepper) according to taste after mashing.
- For creamier mashed potatoes, add extra butter or milk as needed.
- Use quick release carefully to avoid hot steam burns.
- To keep mashed potatoes warm without drying out, use the Instant Pot’s ‘Keep Warm’ setting or transfer back to the pot.
