How to Make Instant Potatoes Taste Better

User Reviews

4.6

476 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    10 mins

  • Total Time

    15 mins

  • Servings

    8

  • Calories

    324 kcal

  • Course

    Side Dish

  • Cuisine

    American

How to Make Instant Potatoes Taste Better

This method enhances instant mashed potatoes by using a flavorful liquid base of milk and chicken broth cooked together before whisking in potato flakes. The addition of melted butter, sour cream, cream cheese, and seasonings like onion and garlic powder enriches the potatoes with creaminess and depth. The result is smooth, fluffy potatoes suitable as a comforting side dish that can be customized with toppings such as cheese or bacon.

Description

This recipe elevates instant mashed potatoes by first simmering milk and chicken broth, then whisking in the potato flakes to hydrate evenly. Using both milk and broth adds flavor beyond plain water. After allowing the potatoes to sit, a hand mixer creates a fluffy texture. The inclusion of melted unsalted butter, sour cream, cream cheese, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder adds richness and savory complexity. This approach turns quick instant potatoes into a creamy, flavorful side dish.

The potatoes can be garnished with ingredients like parsley, bacon, cheese, or gravy to customize the dish further. The texture is slightly fluffy and smooth, with a few small lumps acceptable. This recipe is convenient and improves the taste and mouthfeel compared to standard instant potatoes.

Adjust the seasoning amounts to personal taste. Using good-quality instant potato flakes measured by weight ensures consistent results. It is important to note the onion powder amount is one teaspoon as specified.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 8 ounces instant mashed potatoes We used 2 4-ounce packages
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup cream cheese
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan bring the milk and broth to a gentle boil and stir continuously while the mixture boils for two minutes. 2 cups milk, 2 cups chicken broth
  2. Remove the liquids from heat and pour into a large mixing bowl. Add potato flakes and stir well with a whisk to make sure all flakes are moistened. Let sit for five minutes. 8 ounces instant mashed potatoes*
  3. Use a hand mixer to mix and fluff potatoes on medium speed for one minute.
  4. Add remaining ingredients and mix on medium to medium high until all ingredients are well combined. You can have small lumps, but should not have very many.They should be slightly fluffy and smooth. ½ cup melted unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, ½ cup sour cream, ½ cup cream cheese, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  5. Garnish with parsley, bacon, cheese, gravy...whatever you choose!

Notes

  • Calories are estimated for 8 servings; consult a nutritionist for precise information.
  • Measure potato flakes by weight for accuracy, preferring brands like Idahoan buttery homestyle.
  • Use one teaspoon of onion powder as corrected in the written instructions.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 324kcal (16%) Carbohydrates 28g (9%) Protein 6g (12%) Fat 21g (32%) Saturated Fat 13g (65%) Cholesterol 60mg (20%) Sodium 866mg (36%) Potassium 497mg (11%) Fiber 2g (8%) Sugar 5g (10%) Vitamin A 733IU (15%) Vitamin C 27mg (30%) Calcium 118mg (12%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 8Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 324 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 324kcal 16%
Carbohydrates 28g 9%
Protein 6g 12%
Fat 21g 32%
Saturated Fat 13g 65%
Cholesterol 60mg 20%
Sodium 866mg 36%
Potassium 497mg 11%
Fiber 2g 8%
Sugar 5g 10%
Vitamin A 733IU 15%
Vitamin C 27mg 30%
Calcium 118mg 12%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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