Quick Answer
The quick answer is yes, you typically just need to add water when making instant mashed potatoes. However, there are a few additional tips and tricks that can help make instant mashed potatoes even better.
How to Make Instant Mashed Potatoes
Making instant mashed potatoes is very simple. Here are the basic steps:
- Boil water – Bring a pot of water to a boil. Use at least 1 cup of water per 1/3 cup of potato flakes.
- Add potato flakes – Slowly whisk in the potato flakes to the boiling water. Adding them slowly prevents clumping.
- Stir and remove from heat – Continue stirring for about 1 minute as the potatoes thicken. Then remove from heat.
- Cover and let sit – Cover the pot and let the mashed potatoes sit for about 5 minutes. This allows them to thicken and absorb more water.
- Add butter and milk or cream (optional) – For creamier mashed potatoes, stir in some butter, milk or cream once removed from heat.
- Season with salt and pepper – Taste the potatoes and season with salt and pepper as desired.
So as you can see, the basic recipe does just require hot water and potato flakes. But adding a couple extra ingredients can really take instant mashed potatoes to the next level.
Tips for Making Instant Mashed Potatoes
Here are some tips to help make instant mashed potatoes even better:
- Use boiling water – It’s important to use boiling hot water, not just hot tap water. The boiling water will gelatinize the starch in the potato flakes properly.
- Whisk slowly – Whisk in the potato flakes gradually while stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
- Use enough water – Be sure to use at least 1 cup water per 1/3 cup potato flakes. Using more water makes creamier mashed potatoes.
- Let sit – Letting the potatoes sit for 5+ minutes after stirring allows them to fully thicken and absorb more water.
- Add milk and butter – For creamier, smoother mashed potatoes stir in some melted butter and warmed milk after removing from heat.
- Season well – Flavor the potatoes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other desired seasonings.
- Keep warm – If not serving right away, keep the mashed potatoes warm in a pan on the stove until ready to serve.
Following these tips will help you achieve light, fluffy instant mashed potatoes every time. The extra ingredients like milk and butter make a big difference in texture and flavor.
What Ingredients are in Instant Mashed Potatoes?
The main ingredients in instant mashed potatoes are:
- Dehydrated potato flakes or granules – Made from real potatoes that have been cooked, mashed, dehydrated and ground into flakes or granules.
- Hydrogenated vegetable oil – Added to help keep the potato flakes from clumping. Also adds some fat to improve creaminess.
- Dried milk or cream – Often added to boost creaminess and texture.
- Salt – For flavor.
- Preservatives – Small amounts of preservatives like BHT or BHA may be added to increase shelf life.
Instant mashed potatoes may also contain other seasonings like dried onion, garlic powder, white or black pepper. Overall the ingredient list is pretty short compared to many other instant foods.
The main differences between potato flakes and granules:
- Flakes – Thinner and flakier texture. Rehydrate faster.
- Granules – Coarser, more granular texture. Tend to be a little drier.
Most instant mashed potato instructions are based on using potato flakes. Potato granules may require a bit more water and stirring to get the right smooth, creamy texture.
Nutrition Info for Instant Mashed Potatoes
Here is an overview of the nutrition facts for a 1/2 cup serving of basic instant mashed potatoes prepared with water:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Carbs | 26 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 330 mg |
As you can see, instant mashed potatoes are high in carbohydrates, which come from the potato flakes. They also contain a moderate amount of fiber.
The sodium content is quite high, providing 14% of the daily recommended value per serving. This comes from added salt and preservatives.
Instant mashed potatoes made with milk and butter will have a different nutrition profile with more calories, fat, and protein. Still, the basic nutritional value remains largely the same.
Common Brands of Instant Mashed Potatoes
Here are some of the most popular brands for instant mashed potatoes:
- Idahoan – Comes in different flavors like buttery homestyle, roasted garlic, loaded baked potato, etc.
- Betty Crocker – Offer original and garlic & herb flavors in flakes or buds.
- Hungry Jack – Low fat and regular varieties, plus loaded options.
- Simply Potatoes – Unique flavors like sweet potato and Southwest style.
- Bob’s Red Mill – Made from potato pearls and contain only potato, salt and milk powder.
Idahoan is one of the most recognizable and widely available brands. They offer an array of different flavors and potato consistencies like flakes, buds and pearls.
Store brand versions like Food Club and Great Value also provide cheaper alternatives that work well for basic instant mashed potatoes.
Overall the preparation method remains largely the same across brands. Just follow the package instructions in terms of potato to water ratios and cook times.
Tips for Leftover Instant Mashed Potatoes
Leftover instant mashed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Here are some tasty ways to use up leftovers:
- Potato pancakes – Mix with egg, then fry into pancakes or potato cakes.
- Potato soup – Blend into creamy soup along with milk, veggies and seasonings.
- Gnocchi – Roll into gnocchi shapes, then boil before topping with sauce.
- Pot pies – Add to pot pies along with vegetables and meat.
- Potato casseroles – Combine with cheese, cream, veggies and bake.
- Fried potatoes – Shape into patties or balls and fry in oil for crispy potato fritters.
Reheating leftover mashed potatoes also helps improve their texture. Add a bit of milk or broth when reheating to smooth them out.
With a little creativity, leftover instant mashed potatoes can be used to make a whole new recipes. This helps reduce food waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make instant mashed potatoes with milk instead of water?
Yes, you can make instant mashed potatoes with milk instead of water. Whole milk or half and half work best to make extra creamy, smooth mashed potatoes. Simply substitute the same amount of milk for the water called for in the instructions.
Do you drain the water after making instant mashed potatoes?
No, generally you do not drain the water after making instant mashed potatoes. The water is absorbed and helps hydrate the potato flakes. Draining the water would make the potatoes drier and pasty.
Can instant mashed potatoes be made in the microwave?
Instant mashed potatoes can be easily made in the microwave instead of on the stovetop. Just combine the potato flakes and water in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let sit 2 minutes before serving.
How can you make instant mashed potatoes more flavorful?
To make instant mashed potatoes more flavorful:
– Stir in roasted garlic or herb flavor mixes
– Add butter, milk or cream
– Mix in sour cream or cream cheese
– Top with shredded cheese, crumbled bacon or green onions
– Season generously with salt, pepper and spices
Can you freeze leftovers of instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, to freeze instant mashed potatoes, allow them to cool completely first. Transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container, flattening to remove air. They can be frozen for 2-3 months. Reheat directly from frozen by placing the bag or container in boiling water.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while instant mashed potatoes are made by simply adding hot water to potato flakes, taking a few extra steps helps improve their flavor and texture considerably. Letting them rest ensures creamier potatoes that fully absorb the water. Stirring in some butter, milk and seasonings also makes a big difference. Following package instructions for the proper potato to water ratios is key to getting the right consistency. With just a bit of extra care, instant mashed potatoes can become an easy, delicious and nutritious side dish.