Name: Sean’s 3-Ingredient Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American

Project Meal Plan Verified

March 4, 2026

Sean’s 3-Ingredient Mashed Potatoes are a classic simple side dish that can go with any meal – fancy or totally casual. So simple to whip up in and works great as a make-ahead side dish too! Instant Pot & Stovetop versions!

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Sean’s 3-Ingredient Mashed Potatoes

Project Meal Plan Verified

Ingredients

Warning0 allergens identified

Instructions

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Instant Pot

Place peeled potatoes into Instant Pot insert (they should form one layer on the bottom). Fill the IP with water until the potatoes are just covered (about 4 1/2 cups). Place the IP lid on, and make sure the steam release valve is sealed.

Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes. Release the steam immediately, and carefully drain the water from the potatoes as soon as possible.

Let the potatoes cool for a couple minutes and then use a hand mixer with beater attachments to begin mashing. Add milk and butter, then mix on medium for about 2 minutes until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Stovetop

Boil a large pot of salted water, add potatoes, and cook until fork tender, about 13-15 minutes. Drain water, and let the potatoes cool for a couple minutes.

Use a hand mixer with beater attachments to begin mashing. Add milk and butter, then mix on medium for about 2 minutes until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Choose Starchy Russets Wisely 🥔
Select russet potatoes with similar sizes and avoid waxy varieties—their high starch content creates naturally creamy mashed potatoes without overworking the mixture.
Pre-warm Your Milk and Butter 🧈
Heat milk and butter separately before adding to hot potatoes to prevent lumps and ensure smooth, creamy results without cooling down your base.
Salt the Cooking Water Generously 🧂
Season your potato water like pasta water (it should taste like the sea) so potatoes absorb flavor from within, requiring less seasoning at the end.
Avoid the Food Processor Trap ⚙️
Mash by hand or use a ricer instead of a food processor, which overworks the potatoes and releases excess starch, resulting in a gluey texture.
Make-Ahead Reheating Strategy 🔄
Store mashed potatoes in a buttered baking dish, cover with foil, and reheat gently in a 350°F oven with a splash of warm milk to restore creamy consistency without breaking them down.

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About the Cook

Project Meal Plan

Hi, I’m Danielle! My passion for meal planning came from a desire to save money and reduce food waste, and I want to share it with you! Besides cooking and photography, I absolutely love my cats & chicken (yes, just one!), growing food in my yard, and hot sandwiches!