Beyond the Box: Creative & Delicious Recipes Using Instant Mashed Potatoes
Instant mashed potatoes often get a bad rap. Associated with blandness and convenience over quality, they’re frequently relegated to a side dish afterthought. But what if I told you that this pantry staple could be a versatile ingredient, capable of transforming into comforting classics and exciting new culinary creations? This article will delve deep into the potential of instant mashed potatoes, providing you with delicious and easy-to-follow recipes that go far beyond the basic instructions on the box.
## Why Instant Mashed Potatoes Deserve a Second Look
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s address the elephant in the room: the perception of instant mashed potatoes. Yes, they lack the robust flavor and textural complexity of freshly made mashed potatoes from scratch. However, they offer several advantages:
* **Convenience:** They are undeniably quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
* **Pantry Staple:** Their long shelf life means you can always have them on hand for emergencies or spontaneous cooking.
* **Versatility:** This is where the magic lies. Instant mashed potatoes can be used as a thickener, binder, or base for a wide array of dishes.
* **Budget-Friendly:** They are significantly cheaper than fresh potatoes, making them a great option for budget-conscious cooks.
## Mastering the Basics: The Perfect Instant Mashed Potatoes
Even if you plan to venture into more adventurous recipes, it’s essential to know how to prepare a good batch of basic instant mashed potatoes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
**Ingredients:**
* Instant mashed potato flakes (follow the package instructions for the desired number of servings)
* Water or milk (or a combination of both)
* Salt
* Butter (optional, but highly recommended)
* Black pepper (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Read the Package:** Always start by carefully reading the instructions on the package of your instant mashed potatoes. Different brands and varieties may require slightly different ratios of water/milk to potato flakes.
2. **Heat the Liquid:** In a saucepan, bring the recommended amount of water or milk (or a combination) to a boil. For richer, creamier mashed potatoes, use whole milk or half-and-half. You can also add a knob of butter to the liquid for extra flavor.
3. **Add Salt:** Add salt to the boiling liquid. This is crucial for seasoning the potatoes properly. Start with about ½ teaspoon of salt per cup of liquid and adjust to taste.
4. **Remove from Heat:** Once the liquid is boiling and the salt has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat.
5. **Add Potato Flakes:** Immediately add the instant mashed potato flakes to the hot liquid. Add all the flakes at once for the best texture.
6. **Stir Gently:** Using a fork or a whisk, gently stir the potato flakes into the liquid until they are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Avoid over-stirring, as this can make the potatoes gluey.
7. **Let Stand:** Let the potatoes stand for a minute or two to allow them to fully absorb the liquid and thicken up.
8. **Add Butter and Pepper (Optional):** Stir in a pat of butter for extra richness and flavor. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
9. **Adjust Consistency:** If the potatoes are too thick, add a little more hot water or milk until you reach your desired consistency. If they are too thin, add a small amount of potato flakes, stirring gently.
10. **Taste and Adjust Seasoning:** Give the potatoes a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
**Tips for Perfect Instant Mashed Potatoes:**
* **Use Hot Liquid:** Always use boiling hot liquid for the best results. Cold or lukewarm liquid will not properly hydrate the potato flakes, resulting in lumpy or grainy potatoes.
* **Don’t Over-Stir:** Over-stirring can activate the gluten in the potato flakes, making the potatoes gluey. Stir gently until just combined.
* **Add Flavor Boosters:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor boosters. Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs (such as rosemary or thyme), grated cheese, sour cream, or even bacon bits.
* **Use a Potato Ricer (Optional):** If you want a smoother texture, you can run the mashed potatoes through a potato ricer. This will remove any lumps and create a silky smooth consistency.
## Beyond the Basics: Creative Recipes Using Instant Mashed Potatoes
Now that you know how to make perfect basic instant mashed potatoes, let’s explore some more creative and exciting recipes.
### 1. Shepherd’s Pie with Instant Mashed Potato Topping
Shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort food dish, and instant mashed potatoes make a quick and easy topping. This recipe uses a flavorful ground beef base topped with creamy, cheesy instant mashed potatoes.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Meat Filling:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1 cup frozen corn
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **For the Instant Mashed Potato Topping:**
* Instant mashed potato flakes (enough for 4 servings)
* Water or milk (as directed on the package)
* 2 tablespoons butter
* ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Meat Filling:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
2. **Add Vegetables:** Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Stir in Herbs and Tomato Paste:** Stir in the thyme, rosemary, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute more.
4. **Add Broth and Simmer:** Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. **Add Peas and Corn:** Stir in the frozen peas and corn and cook for 5 minutes more.
6. **Season to Taste:** Season the meat filling with salt and pepper to taste.
7. **Prepare the Instant Mashed Potato Topping:** Prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to the package instructions, using water or milk and butter.
8. **Stir in Cheese:** Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. **Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:** Pour the meat filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the mashed potato topping evenly over the meat filling.
10. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
11. **Let Cool Slightly:** Let the shepherd’s pie cool slightly before serving.
### 2. Potato Croquettes with Ham and Cheese
These crispy potato croquettes are a delicious appetizer or side dish. Instant mashed potatoes provide the perfect base for these cheesy, savory bites.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups prepared instant mashed potatoes (cooled)
* ½ cup diced ham
* ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
* ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten
* ¼ cup all-purpose flour
* ½ cup breadcrumbs
* Vegetable oil, for frying
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, diced ham, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. **Form Croquettes:** Shape the mixture into small, oblong croquettes.
3. **Prepare Breading Station:** Place the flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes.
4. **Bread the Croquettes:** Dredge each croquette in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs.
5. **Fry the Croquettes:** Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the croquettes into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. **Drain on Paper Towels:** Remove the croquettes from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
7. **Serve:** Serve the potato croquettes hot, with your favorite dipping sauce.
### 3. Potato Pancakes (Latkes) Made Easy
Potato pancakes, or latkes, are a traditional Jewish dish, often served during Hanukkah. This recipe uses instant mashed potatoes to simplify the process without sacrificing flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups prepared instant mashed potatoes (cooled)
* 1 egg, beaten
* ¼ cup all-purpose flour
* 1 small onion, grated
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Vegetable oil, for frying
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, egg, flour, and grated onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. **Heat the Oil:** Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. **Form Pancakes:** Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of a spoon.
4. **Fry the Pancakes:** Fry the potato pancakes until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. **Drain on Paper Towels:** Remove the potato pancakes from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
6. **Serve:** Serve the potato pancakes hot, with applesauce or sour cream.
### 4. Cheesy Potato Bread Rolls
These soft and cheesy potato bread rolls are a delicious addition to any meal. Instant mashed potatoes help to create a tender and moist crumb.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup warm water
* 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 cup prepared instant mashed potatoes (cooled)
* 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
* 1 teaspoon salt
* ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Melted butter, for brushing
**Instructions:**
1. **Activate the Yeast:** In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
2. **Add Remaining Ingredients:** Add the olive oil, cooled mashed potatoes, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. **Knead the Dough:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. You may need to add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
4. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. **Punch Down and Shape:** Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
6. **Add Cheese and Shape into Rolls:** Flatten each piece of dough slightly and place a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese in the center. Bring the edges of the dough up and pinch them together to seal. Shape the dough into a round roll.
7. **Second Rise:** Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffed up.
8. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. **Brush with Butter:** Brush the rolls with melted butter while they are still warm.
10. **Serve:** Serve the cheesy potato bread rolls warm.
### 5. Potato and Cheese Pierogi Filling
Pierogi are traditional Eastern European dumplings. Instant mashed potatoes make a quick and easy filling for these delicious treats.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups prepared instant mashed potatoes (cooled)
* 1 cup farmer’s cheese or ricotta cheese
* ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 small onion, finely chopped and sautéed
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, farmer’s cheese or ricotta cheese, cheddar cheese, and sautéed onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. **Use as Pierogi Filling:** Use this mixture as a filling for homemade or store-bought pierogi dough. Cook the pierogi according to your preferred method (boiling, frying, or baking).
3. **Serve:** Serve the pierogi with sour cream, fried onions, or bacon bits.
### 6. Potato Soup Thickened with Instant Mash
Need a creamy, comforting potato soup without hours of simmering? Instant mashed potatoes are your secret weapon. They add thickness and a subtle potato flavor without the extra time.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 2 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
* 1 cup prepared instant mashed potatoes
* ½ cup milk or cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: shredded cheese, bacon bits, chives, sour cream
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Vegetables:** Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. **Add Broth and Potatoes:** Pour in vegetable broth and add diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. **Thicken with Instant Mash:** Stir in the prepared instant mashed potatoes until fully incorporated and the soup thickens. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. **Add Milk/Cream:** Stir in milk or cream for added richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Blend (Optional):** For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup.
6. **Serve:** Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, chives, or sour cream.
### 7. Instant Mashed Potato Gnocchi
Gnocchi can be intimidating, but using instant mashed potatoes simplifies the process significantly. These light and fluffy dumplings are surprisingly easy to make.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups prepared instant mashed potatoes (cooled)
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
* ½ teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, egg, flour, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
2. **Knead Lightly:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for a minute or two until smooth. Avoid over-kneading, as this will make the gnocchi tough.
3. **Roll and Cut:** Divide the dough into several portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about ½ inch thick. Cut the rope into ½-inch pieces.
4. **Shape (Optional):** If desired, roll each gnocchi piece over the tines of a fork to create ridges.
5. **Cook the Gnocchi:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi into the boiling water. They are done when they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
6. **Sauté (Optional):** For a golden-brown color, sauté the cooked gnocchi in a pan with butter or olive oil until lightly browned.
7. **Serve:** Serve the gnocchi with your favorite sauce, such as pesto, marinara, or a cream sauce.
### 8. Potato and Spinach Patties
These vegetarian patties are a healthy and delicious way to use instant mashed potatoes. They’re perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups prepared instant mashed potatoes (cooled)
* 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
* ½ cup breadcrumbs
* ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Olive oil, for frying
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, spinach, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. **Form Patties:** Shape the mixture into patties.
3. **Fry the Patties:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. **Serve:** Serve the potato and spinach patties hot, with your favorite dipping sauce.
### 9. Creamy Potato and Corn Chowder
This comforting chowder is a delicious way to warm up on a cold day. Instant mashed potatoes add creaminess and body to the soup.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 2 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
* 1 cup frozen corn
* 1 cup prepared instant mashed potatoes
* 1 cup milk or cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: bacon bits, chives, oyster crackers
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Vegetables:** Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. **Add Broth and Potatoes:** Pour in chicken broth and add diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. **Add Corn and Instant Mash:** Stir in the frozen corn and prepared instant mashed potatoes until fully incorporated. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. **Add Milk/Cream:** Stir in milk or cream for added richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Serve:** Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings like bacon bits, chives, or oyster crackers.
### 10. Instant Mashed Potato Pizza Crust
Yes, you can even make a pizza crust with instant mashed potatoes! This gluten-free option is surprisingly easy and delicious.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups prepared instant mashed potatoes (cooled)
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Pizza toppings of your choice
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, egg, mozzarella cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. **Press into Pizza Pan:** Press the mixture evenly into a greased pizza pan or baking sheet.
3. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown.
4. **Add Toppings:** Add your favorite pizza toppings to the crust.
5. **Bake Again:** Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the toppings are heated through.
6. **Serve:** Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
## Tips for Success with Instant Mashed Potato Recipes
* **Cooling is Key:** Many of these recipes require cooled instant mashed potatoes. This allows the potatoes to firm up and prevents them from becoming too sticky when mixed with other ingredients.
* **Adjusting Consistency:** Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of liquid or potato flakes to achieve the desired consistency. The exact amount will depend on the brand of instant mashed potatoes you are using and your personal preferences.
* **Flavor is Everything:** Season your instant mashed potatoes well. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs can all add depth and complexity to the flavor.
* **Experiment!** These recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create your own unique instant mashed potato creations.
## The Bottom Line
Instant mashed potatoes are more than just a convenient side dish. With a little creativity, they can be transformed into a variety of delicious and satisfying meals. From shepherd’s pie to potato pancakes to pizza crust, the possibilities are endless. So, next time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, don’t overlook the humble box of instant mashed potatoes. You might be surprised at what you can create!
This article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to using instant mashed potatoes in creative ways. Now it’s time to get cooking and discover the versatility of this often-overlooked pantry staple. Happy cooking!