As I stood in my kitchen one rainy afternoon, I couldn’t shake the craving for something warm and comforting. That’s when I pulled out my trusty Ninja Foodi—a kitchen gadget that has transformed my cooking routine. The thought of creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes danced in my mind, and before I knew it, I was peeling golden potatoes, ready to whip up a batch that would leave everyone at the table swooning.
These Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes are not only a breeze to make but also pack that delightful buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with any meal. The best part? Forget the mess of traditional methods; this one-pot wonder streamlines the process, allowing you to savor every bite guilt-free. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, these mashed potatoes are sure to become the star of your next meal! Let’s dive into how you can create the ultimate side dish with ease!
Why love Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes?
Simplicity made easy: This recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, allowing even novice cooks to shine.
Quick cooking: In just 5 minutes of pressure cooking, you’ll have delicious mashed potatoes ready for any meal.
Creamy texture: The Ninja Foodi ensures a velvety finish that absorbs gravies and sauces beautifully.
Versatile variations: Feel free to customize by swapping in different potatoes or adding flavorful herbs—creativity is encouraged!
Minimal cleanup: Say goodbye to a sink full of dishes, as this one-pot recipe saves you time and effort.
Crowd-pleaser: These potatoes are perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties, guaranteed to impress every guest.
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes
• Gold Potatoes – The star of this dish; their creamy texture and buttery flavor make every bite melt in your mouth.
• Salted Butter – Adds a richness that enhances the overall flavor; be sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Chicken Broth – Boosts moisture and taste; switch to vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian option.
• Milk – Critical for achieving that creamy consistency; whole milk will give the richest flavor, while cream can elevate the indulgence.
• Water – Essential for cooking the potatoes in the Ninja Foodi; don’t skip this step!
• Salt – A basic yet vital seasoning; adjust according to your taste after boiling for the best flavor.
Enjoy whipping up these Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes that promise to make every meal more indulgent!
How to Make Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
Prep Potatoes: Peel and chop your gold potatoes into 2-inch chunks. This size ensures even cooking, so every bite turns out creamy and fluffy.
Pressure Cook: Add your prepared potato chunks to the Ninja Foodi, then pour in water and salt. Seal the lid, and set to high pressure for 5 minutes—this quick cook will give you perfectly soft potatoes.
Natural Pressure Release: After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes. Then, perform a quick release for any remaining pressure, which should take about 2.5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Once the pressure is released, carefully transfer the potatoes to a mixing bowl. Add your softened butter and milk; mash until you achieve the desired creamy consistency.
Final Touches: Slowly fold in the chicken broth and season with salt to taste. This last step enhances the flavor and makes your mashed potatoes irresistible!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes are fantastic for meal prep! You can peel and chop the gold potatoes, then place them in a bowl of water to prevent browning for up to 24 hours in advance. Additionally, you can measure out the butter, milk, and chicken broth and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to make the mashed potatoes, simply drain the water, add the potatoes to the Ninja Foodi with water and salt, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. After the natural pressure release, mix in your pre-prepared ingredients, and you’ve got creamy mashed potatoes that are just as delicious as if you made them fresh!
Expert Tips for Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
- Uniform Chunks: Cut potatoes into even 1-inch pieces for consistent cooking and avoid a mix of textures—mushy vs. firm can spoil your dish.
- Natural Release Matters: Allowing natural pressure release helps maintain the integrity of the potatoes, preventing cracks during the quick release phase.
- Drain and Dry: After cooking, drain potatoes well and let them sit briefly to steam off excess moisture, ensuring a perfect creamy consistency while mashing.
- Butter First: Start by adding butter to the potatoes before any liquids; this creates a silky texture that enhances the final product’s richness in these Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes.
- Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix in ingredients like garlic, herbs, or cheese for a delicious twist that will elevate your dish to the next level!
Storage Tips for Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the creamy texture intact while preventing any unwanted odors from other foods.
- Freezer: If you need to keep them longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth. This will help restore the creaminess, making your Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes just as delightful as when they were first made.
- Thawing: When ready to use frozen mashed potatoes, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to ignite your culinary creativity and make these mashed potatoes your own!
Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk and butter with almond milk and olive oil for a lighter, dairy-free option that still tastes great.
Garlic Lovers: Add roasted garlic or garlic powder during the mixing process for a savory punch that elevates every spoonful.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or chives into the mash to add a fragrant aroma and fresh flavor. You can mix them in right before serving for that vibrant touch.
Cheesy Bliss: Fold in some shredded cheddar or cream cheese for a creamy, cheesy delight that’ll make your mashed potatoes irresistible.
Spicy Kick: Stir in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that adds excitement to your comfort food classic.
Texture Twist: For a unique flavor and texture, mash in some roasted cauliflower along with the potatoes, creating a creamy blend that’s just out of this world.
Zesty Lemon: A splash of lemon juice and some lemon zest can brighten up this dish. The citrus note is refreshing and balances out the richness nicely.
Smoky Flavor: Mix in some smoked paprika or bacon bits for a smoky, savory flavor that adds depth and an unexpected twist on traditional mashed potatoes.
What to Serve with Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes?
Elevate your meal with delicious pairings that complement the creamy goodness of your mashed potatoes.
Roast Chicken: Offers a juicy contrast and rich flavor that balances out the buttery texture of the potatoes. They soak up the chicken gravy beautifully for an ultimate comfort food experience.
Grilled Steaks: The robust flavor of a perfectly grilled steak pairs perfectly with the velvety mashed potatoes, ensuring every bite is a hearty delight.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their sweet and tender profile brings a pop of color and flavor, creating a lovely balance with the creamy potatoes. They add a fresh touch, making your plate visually appealing.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter create a luxurious pairing, while their lightness contrasts the richness of the mashed potatoes.
Meatloaf: Classic comfort food shines next to these Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes, creating a nostalgic, homey meal that the whole family will love.
Creamy Spinach Salad: A fresh, crisp salad adds bite to your plate while the creamy dressing elevates the overall meal concept. The vibrant greens are an excellent way to refresh your palate.
Savory Gravy: Whether from your roast or a vegetarian mushroom broth, a rich gravy enhances all flavors and rounds out the comfort of the dish.
Cranberry Sauce: This unexpected but delicious pairing introduces tartness, balancing the creamy richness and adding a festive flair to your meal.
Apple Pie: For a cozy finish, serve a slice of warm apple pie with a scoop of ice cream. The blend of sweet and tart rounds off the meal, leaving everyone smiling.
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What potatoes work best for Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes?
I recommend using Gold Potatoes for their creamy texture and buttery flavor. If you prefer a slightly fluffier mash, you can try Russet potatoes, but be cautious not to over-mix, as they can become gummy. Another option is to use Yukon Golds or red potatoes for different textures and flavors.
How should I store leftover mashed potatoes?
Store any leftover Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will help maintain their creamy consistency while keeping them fresh. Just make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any unwanted odors from mingling.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes, let them cool completely first. Then, portion them into freezer-safe bags—be sure to press out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. These mashed potatoes can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth for that creamy texture.
What if my mashed potatoes are too watery?
If your Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes turn out too watery, don’t fret! Here’s what to do: Drain excess liquid and return the mashed potatoes to the Ninja Foodi. Turn on the sauté function and cook while stirring gently for a few minutes. This helps evaporate the extra moisture. You can also mix in a little instant potato flakes to absorb the liquid and achieve the desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re making mashed potatoes for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option. You can also substitute non-dairy milk for those who are lactose intolerant. Always double-check for allergies with your guests, especially when it comes to things like butter or any additional garnishes.
Creamy Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes in Just Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and chop your gold potatoes into 2-inch chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Add prepared potato chunks to the Ninja Foodi, pour in water and salt. Seal the lid, set to high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for remaining pressure.
- Carefully transfer potatoes to a mixing bowl. Add softened butter and milk; mash until creamy.
- Fold in chicken broth and season with salt to taste.