When I first experimented with my Ninja Foodi, I never expected it to deliver such creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes in record time. The moment the lid clicked shut, I felt a mix of curiosity and excitement, wondering how this one-pot wonder could possibly transform a staple side dish into something extraordinary. If you’ve been stuck in a fast-food rut or are tired of the same old weeknight sides, this recipe is here to elevate your dinner game effortlessly.
Imagine diving into a bowl of perfectly buttery, velvety mashed potatoes, their aroma wrapping around you like a warm hug. With just a few simple ingredients and under 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that not only pleases your palate but also impresses any family or friends gathered around the table. Whether paired with grilled steak or roasted vegetables, these Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes are bound to become your new go-to comfort food. Let’s jump into this culinary adventure and transform ordinary potatoes into an indulgent delight!
Why are these Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes a must-try?
Simplicity at its Best: This recipe makes it easy to create creamy mashed potatoes with minimal effort and just a few ingredients.
Quick Cooking: In under 30 minutes, you’ll have perfectly cooked and fluffy potatoes ready to serve.
Flavorful Depth: The addition of sugar-free chicken broth provides a rich taste without extra calories.
Versatile Variations: You can easily switch up the potato types for different textures and flavors—try russets for fluffiness or red potatoes for chunkiness!
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: These delectable mashed potatoes are perfect for family dinners and impressing guests alike. Don’t forget to check out my other comfort food recipes for more delicious ideas!
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Gold Potatoes – Ideal for a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture; substitute with russets for a fluffier mash or red potatoes for a denser bite.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor during cooking; adjust to taste afterward based on personal preference.
For Cooking
• Water – Creates steam for cooking the potatoes; a must-have for pressure cooking in your Ninja Foodi.
• Sugar-Free Chicken Broth – Adds depth of flavor without extra calories; swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For Mashing
• Whole Milk – Provides the creaminess that makes these mashed potatoes irresistible; use skim milk for a lighter version, but whole milk yields the richest taste.
• Salted Butter – Enhances richness and creaminess; feel free to use unsalted butter if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Dive into the joy of making these Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes and watch as they become a beloved staple at your dinner table!
How to Make Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
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Prep Potatoes: Start by peeling and cutting the gold potatoes into 2-inch chunks. This ensures even cooking, resulting in perfectly creamy mashed potatoes.
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Add Ingredients to Pot: Pour water and a pinch of salt into the Ninja Foodi pot. Place the potato chunks inside the pot, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
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Pressure Cooking: Close the lid securely, seal the valve, and set the Ninja Foodi to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. This quick cook will create a tender texture.
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Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes. This helps prevent any watery potatoes.
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Quick Pressure Release: Carefully switch the venting valve to release any remaining pressure. Always take caution to avoid hot steam.
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Mash Potatoes: Transfer the hot, cooked potatoes into a mixing bowl. Add the salted butter and whole milk, then mash them together until you reach your desired texture.
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Incorporate Broth: Gradually mix in the sugar-free chicken broth, tasting as you go to adjust the seasoning and flavor to your liking.
Optional: Top with freshly chopped herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, portion out servings in freezer bags, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth, stirring every 30 seconds. Alternatively, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit more butter or milk to retain creaminess.
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these mashed potatoes to suit your tastes! Each variation promises a fresh twist that will keep your meals exciting.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and butter with almond milk and coconut oil for a vegan version that’s still rich and creamy.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or rosemary during mashing to add an aromatic touch that elevates flavor.
- Garlic Lovers: Incorporate roasted garlic cloves or garlic powder for a savory depth that adds sophistication to the dish.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese just before serving for a melty, cheesy richness that everyone will love.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce while mashing for a zesty, flavor-packed alternative.
- Cream Cheese Twist: Blend in cream cheese for an ultra-creamy texture and a tangy flavor that will make these potatoes truly special. It creates a silky smooth finish that’s hard to resist.
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Top with crispy bacon bits, green onions, or sour cream for a fully loaded experience that feels indulgent.
- Nutty Flavor: Mix in toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that surprises.
Enjoy experimenting with these variations, and let each family dinner become a memorable adventure!
Expert Tips for Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
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Uniform Cutting: Ensure potatoes are cut into even 2-inch chunks to guarantee uniform cooking throughout, avoiding any undercooked pieces.
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Natural Release Matters: Allowing for a natural pressure release will help prevent watery mashed potatoes, keeping them perfectly fluffy.
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Drain Well: After cooking, make sure to drain the potatoes thoroughly and let the steam escape before mashing for optimal texture.
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Butter First: Add butter before the liquids to help it melt uniformly into the potatoes, ensuring a creamy result without excess moisture.
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Taste as You Go: Incorporate the chicken broth gradually; tasting along the way ensures that your Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes are seasoned just right!
What to Serve with Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes?
Imagine transforming your dinner table into a comforting feast with vibrant sides that highlight these creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the silky mashed potatoes perfectly.
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Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal veggies offers a delightful crunch and earthy sweetness, balancing the creaminess of the potatoes.
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Braised Short Ribs: Rich and hearty, these tender ribs bring a luxurious touch and a umami punch that will leave everyone’s taste buds dancing.
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Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Pour over your mashed potatoes for an indulgent, savory twist that enhances every bite with rich, earthy flavors.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp: Sweet, succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter provides an irresistible, seafood contrast to the hearty potatoes.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts until golden creates a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with the smooth texture of the mashed potatoes.
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Classic Meatloaf: This nostalgic favorite packs flavor and comfort, making it a match made in heaven with your Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes.
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Sweet Tea: A refreshing glass of sweet tea to sip while enjoying your meal adds a delightful touch to your comfort food experience.
Embrace the delightful combinations, and soon these mashed potatoes will be the star of your dinner table!
Make Ahead Options
These Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to save time during the busy week. You can peel and cut the gold potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them submerged in cold water to prevent browning. Additionally, you can pre-measure the broth, milk, and butter, keeping them ready in the fridge for when you’re ready to finish the dish. On the day of serving, cook the potatoes according to the recipe, then mash and mix in the remaining ingredients as outlined. This ensures that your mashed potatoes are just as creamy and delicious, providing you with a comforting side dish with minimal effort!
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Gold potatoes are perfect for this dish due to their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture. However, if you prefer a fluffier mash, I recommend using russet potatoes. Alternatively, red potatoes can give a denser texture, which is also delightful!
How do I store leftover Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes?
To keep your mashed potatoes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to save them for later, portion them out into freezer bags and remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to 2 months without sacrificing quality!
Can I freeze Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes?
Sure thing! To freeze, after you’ve allowed the mashed potatoes to cool completely, portion them into freezer-safe bags. Squeeze out the air, seal tightly, and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
How can I ensure my mashed potatoes aren’t watery?
Great question! To avoid watery mashed potatoes, I suggest allowing a natural pressure release after cooking. This means letting the steam escape naturally for about 5 minutes. Additionally, drain the potatoes well and let them cool for a moment before mashing, so you can achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
Are Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This recipe can be easily modified to fit dietary needs. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply replace the sugar-free chicken broth with vegetable broth. For those monitoring sodium intake, using unsalted butter and limiting added salt can help maintain a healthier dish. Always taste as you go to ensure it fits your dietary preferences!
What should I do if my Ninja Foodi mashed potatoes are too thick?
If you find your mashed potatoes are too thick, don’t worry! Just gradually stir in a little extra whole milk or broth until you achieve your desired consistency. This will not only help to loosen them up but also enhance the creamy texture we all love.
Creamy Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes You’ll Want Every Night
Equipment
- Ninja Foodi
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 2 pounds Gold Potatoes Can substitute with russets or red potatoes
For Cooking
- 1 cup Water
- 1 cup Sugar-Free Chicken Broth Can swap with vegetable broth for vegetarian option
For Mashing
- 1/2 cup Whole Milk Use skim milk for lighter version
- 1/2 cup Salted Butter Unsalted butter can be used as an alternative
Seasoning
- to taste Salt
Instructions
How to Make Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
- Start by peeling and cutting the gold potatoes into 2-inch chunks.
- Pour water and a pinch of salt into the Ninja Foodi pot. Place the potato chunks inside the pot.
- Close the lid securely, seal the valve, and set the Ninja Foodi to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes.
- Carefully switch the venting valve to release any remaining pressure.
- Transfer the hot, cooked potatoes into a mixing bowl. Add the salted butter and whole milk, then mash them together.
- Gradually mix in the sugar-free chicken broth, tasting as you go to adjust the seasoning.