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Instant Mashed Potatoes Recipe: Ultra Creamy Butter & Cream Made Easy

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This ultra creamy instant mashed potatoes recipe uses butter, heavy cream, and sour cream for a rich, decadent side dish that comes together in under 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or whenever you crave nostalgic comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups instant potato flakes (about 125g)
  • 1 cup whole milk (240ml)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (120ml)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56g), plus extra for topping
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream (30g, optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (6g), or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (2g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (2g, optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chives or parsley, chopped (8g, optional)

Instructions

  1. Add whole milk, heavy cream, and unsalted butter to a medium saucepan. Warm gently over medium heat until butter melts and mixture is steaming, but not boiling (about 3–4 minutes).
  2. Whisk in salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Remove pan from heat. Pour in instant potato flakes and stir gently with a whisk or spatula until fully incorporated and creamy (about 1 minute).
  4. Stir in sour cream for extra creaminess, or add an extra tablespoon of butter if skipping sour cream.
  5. Let mashed potatoes rest for 2–3 minutes to thicken. If too thick, add a splash of warm milk and stir.
  6. Give a final stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Spoon potatoes into a serving bowl, swirl with a spoon, and top with extra butter and chopped chives or parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and butter. For extra flavor, add fresh herbs, roasted garlic, or cheese. Don’t overmix to avoid gluey texture. If potatoes are too runny, add more flakes; if too thick, loosen with warm milk. Serve hot for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: instant mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, butter, cream, easy side dish, comfort food, holiday, weeknight, gluten-free, potato flakes