Nothing beats the comforting embrace of a bowl of mashed potatoes, especially when they’re made effortlessly in a Ninja Foodi. I remember a rainy Sunday when the craving hit hard; all I wanted was that creamy, buttery goodness without the usual fuss. Enter my Ninja Foodi! In just one pot, I can create mashed potatoes that are not only delicious but also come together in a matter of minutes.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability—choose your favorite type of potato, from the naturally buttery golds to the fluffy russets, and enjoy a side dish that can elevate any meal. Imagine spoonfuls of velvety mashed potatoes served alongside your favorite protein, ready to soak up all those delicious flavors. With the Ninja Foodi, making mashed potatoes has never been simpler, making room for more time at the table and less time in the kitchen. Ready to transform your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Why are Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes a must-try?
Versatile and adaptable: This recipe allows you to experiment with different potato varieties, creating your perfect mash!
Time-saving: The Ninja Foodi’s one-pot cooking means less time spent cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.
Rich, creamy flavor: With the addition of chicken broth and butter, you’ll savor every bite of these indulgent potatoes.
Perfect for any occasion: Paired beautifully with meats or veggies, they elevate weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.
Quick and easy: In just a matter of minutes, you’ll have a comforting side dish that rivals those made traditionally.
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Gold Potatoes – These provide a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture; for a fluffier result, use russets instead.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the potatoes’ flavor while they cook.
• Water – Required for cooking the potatoes under pressure in your Ninja Foodi.
For the Creaminess
• Chicken Broth – Adds depth of flavor to your Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes; feel free to swap with vegetable broth for vegetarian options.
• Milk – Contributes to the creaminess; whole milk is perfect for richness, but cream works for an even more indulgent mash.
• Salted Butter – Softened for easy mixing, this ingredient enriches the flavor and texture of your potatoes.
Additional Tips
• Optional Add-ins – Customize your mash with garlic, cheese, or herbs for extra flavor; don’t hesitate to get creative!
How to Make Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
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Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cut your gold potatoes into uniform 2-inch chunks. This ensures they cook evenly, giving you that perfect creamy texture every time.
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Combine Ingredients: Place the potato chunks in the Ninja Foodi pot and add water along with a pinch of salt. This helps enhance the flavor during cooking, making them even more delicious.
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Cook Under Pressure: Seal the lid and set your Ninja Foodi to high pressure. Cook for 5 minutes—your kitchen will soon be filled with the delightful aroma of cooking potatoes!
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Release the Pressure: After the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before carefully performing a quick release. This step helps keep your mashed potatoes from getting watery.
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Mash to Perfection: Transfer the cooked potatoes to a mixing bowl, leaving the cooking liquid behind. Add softened butter and milk to the hot potatoes, and mash until you reach your desired consistency.
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Add Extra Flavor: Gently fold in the chicken broth, tasting as you go to adjust the salt. This addition brings an incredible depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for more!
Optional: Garnish with fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool them to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your mashed potatoes in portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or a dollop of butter to restore creaminess and flavor to your Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare these mashed potatoes a day in advance. Just follow proper storage guidelines, and they’ll be ready to warm up and serve!
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your tastes with these delightful twists!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and milk with plant-based versions like coconut milk and vegan butter for a creamy, dairy-free mash.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during cooking for a fragrant boost that’ll elevate your potatoes to gourmet status.
- Garlic Boost: Toss in minced garlic before cooking for an aromatic flavor. When combined with the creamy mash, it delivers an irresistible taste.
- Bacon Love: Fold in crispy bacon bits right before serving for a savory crunch that gets the whole family excited.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan during the mashing process for a rich and gooey finish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for those who love a hint of heat in their comforting side dish.
- Creamy Variants: Swap out the milk for sour cream or Greek yogurt—this adds a tangy flavor and a luxurious creaminess that enhances every bite.
- Vegetable Delight: Incorporate roasted garlic or caramelized onions into the mash for added depth and sweetness, creating a layered flavor experience.
Each variation opens a door to new flavors, making your Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes the perfect canvas for culinary creativity!
Make Ahead Options
These Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights! You can peel and cut the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance and store them submerged in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. If you’re looking to prep even further, you can cook the potatoes in the Ninja Foodi and store the mashed mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or additional butter to ensure they stay creamy and delicious. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes?
There’s nothing like crafting a deliciously complete meal, and these creamy mashed potatoes deserve companions that enhance their delightful flavor and texture.
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Roasted Chicken: The crispy, seasoned skin of roasted chicken complements the creamy potatoes perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying dining experience. A drizzle of the chicken’s juices over the potatoes makes each bite even more delicious.
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Grilled Steak: Rich, juicy steak pairs beautifully with the velvety texture of mashed potatoes, offering a satisfying contrast of flavors. The savory notes from the meat elevate the overall meal, making it truly unforgettable.
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Pork Chops: A beautifully seared pork chop adds a savory element that balances the creamy potatoes, making it a classic combination everyone loves. Top with a fruit or mushroom sauce for extra flavor that marries well with each component.
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Meatloaf: Classic comfort food at its finest—slather your meatloaf with ketchup or gravy and serve alongside a generous helping of mashed potatoes for a warm, homey meal. Each mouthful becomes a delightful journey of flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: Add color and nutrition with seasonal roasted veggies. Their caramelized sweetness enhances the denseness of the mashed potatoes, creating a well-rounded dish that’s both comforting and vibrant.
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Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery dinner rolls are a perfect addition to your plate, allowing you to scoop up those delicious mashed potatoes with ease. There’s nothing quite like tearing into a roll and swiping it through creamy goodness!
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Savory Gravy: A hearty, rich gravy made from pan drippings or mushroom sauce is an unbeatable partner, transforming your mashed potatoes into an irresistible culinary experience. You won’t want to miss a drop!
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Crispy Bacon Bits: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top for a delightful crunch that introduces a smoky flavor to your dish. It’s the perfect way to elevate classic mashed potatoes into something extraordinary.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad introduces a crisp element that offsets the creaminess of the potatoes. Try a mix of greens, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing to brighten your meal.
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Classic Chocolate Cake: For dessert, indulge in a slice of rich chocolate cake. Its sweetness beautifully contrasts with the savory potatoes, rounding out your meal on a delightful note.
Expert Tips for Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
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Uniform Cuts: Cut your potatoes into uniform 2-inch chunks to ensure they cook evenly, avoiding dense or undercooked pieces.
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Natural Release: Always allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes. This prevents your mashed potatoes from being too watery and helps retain their fluffiness.
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Thorough Draining: After cooking, drain the potatoes thoroughly and let them sit for a minute with the lid off to enhance their texture.
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Butter First: Add the softened butter before other liquids for optimal melting and incorporation into your Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes.
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Creative Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with flavors—try adding roasted garlic, cream cheese, or herbs for a delightful twist on your mashed potatoes!
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best potatoes for my Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Gold potatoes are perfect for their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture. However, if you’re looking for a fluffier mash, russet potatoes are an excellent choice! Conversely, if you want something slightly denser, red potatoes can work too. Just make sure to select potatoes that are firm and free from dark spots.
How should I store leftover Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s essential to let the mashed potatoes cool to room temperature before sealing to ensure they stay fresh. Alternatively, if you want to save them for later, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just remember to label them for easy identification later!
Can I freeze my Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes?
The more the merrier! To freeze, place cooled mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and use them within 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the microwave or stovetop with a bit of milk or butter for that creamy goodness!
What should I do if my mashed potatoes turn out watery or too lumpy?
Very! If your mashed potatoes are watery, ensure you’re using the natural release method to keep them fluffy. Additionally, for more texture, make sure to drain them thoroughly before mashing. If they’re too lumpy, try mixing them with an electric mixer for a smoother consistency. Just be careful not to over-mix, as it can lead to gummy potatoes!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind when making Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes?
Of course! If you have dietary restrictions, opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Also, be mindful of allergies—ensure that any add-ins like garlic or cheese are suitable for your guests. If you have pets, remember that onions and garlic might be harmful, so it’s best to keep the mashed potatoes plain if you plan on sharing them!
Can I make Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your mashed potatoes a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, just reheat them on the stovetop or microwave. Adding a splash of milk or a bit of butter while reheating helps restore their creamy texture and flavor, making them just as delicious as when they were first made!
Creamy Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes You’ll Crave Every Meal
Equipment
- Ninja Foodi
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 2 pounds Gold Potatoes These provide a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for enhancing flavor while cooking.
- 1 cup Water Required for cooking the potatoes under pressure.
For the Creaminess
- 1 cup Chicken Broth Adds depth of flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian.
- 1/2 cup Milk Whole milk is perfect for richness.
- 4 tablespoons Salted Butter Softened for easy mixing.
Additional Tips
- Optional Add-ins Customize with garlic, cheese, or herbs for extra flavor.
Instructions
How to Make Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
- Peel and cut your gold potatoes into uniform 2-inch chunks.
- Place the potato chunks in the Ninja Foodi pot and add water and a pinch of salt.
- Seal the lid and set your Ninja Foodi to high pressure. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before carefully performing a quick release.
- Transfer the cooked potatoes to a mixing bowl, leaving the cooking liquid behind. Add softened butter and milk, and mash until desired consistency.
- Gently fold in the chicken broth, adjusting salt as needed.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chives or parsley.