After a long day filled with work hustle and never-ending to-do lists, nothing feels better than coming home to the comforting smell of homemade food wafting through the air. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I made these Creamy Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes. The magic begins the moment you pop the lid on the Ninja Foodi, releasing a luscious steam that envelops your kitchen, heralding a dish that’s not only quick to prepare but utterly satisfying.
Imagine sinking your fork into a bowl of velvety mashed potatoes—light and fluffy yet rich with the buttery flavor of golden potatoes. This dish is a game changer, transforming ordinary weeknight dinners into a gourmet experience with minimal effort. Perfectly seasoned and versatile, these mashed potatoes serve as the ultimate side for everything from grilled steak to roasted chicken or even a delightful veggie platter.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone looking to break free from the monotony of fast food, this recipe will rekindle your love for homemade cooking. Join me as we dive into a dish that redefines comfort food while being incredibly easy to whip up!
Why Will You Love Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes?
Creamy delight in every bite: These mashed potatoes are irresistibly smooth and fluffy, delivering a deeply satisfying comfort food experience.
Quick preparation: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time—ideal for busy weeknights!
Versatility: Perfectly complements a variety of entrees, from succulent roasted chicken to hearty grilled steak.
Unique twist: Using different potato varieties allows you to customize the flavor and texture based on your preference.
Minimal cleanup: Cooking in the Ninja Foodi means less mess in the kitchen, making it a go-to choice for hassle-free cooking.
If you’re looking for more ideas, check out my guide on vegan sides to pair with these mashed potatoes!
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Gold Potatoes – Offers a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture; russet or red potatoes can also be utilized for different textures.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor during cooking, ensuring each bite is seasoned to perfection.
• Water – Essential for cooking the potatoes under pressure in your Ninja Foodi.
For the Creaminess
• Chicken Broth – Adds depth and savory flavor to the mash; feel free to swap it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Whole Milk – Key for a creamy consistency; substitutable with half-and-half or your favorite dairy-free alternatives.
• Salted Butter – Infuses richness and flavor into the potatoes; if using unsalted, adjust your salt accordingly for balance.
Dive into the magic of these Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes and enjoy the delightful comfort they bring to your table!
How to Make Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
Peel and Chop: Start by peeling your gold potatoes and cutting them into 2-inch chunks. This helps ensure they cook evenly and quickly in the Ninja Foodi.
Add to Pot: Place the potato chunks into the Ninja Foodi pot, then pour in enough water to cover them. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt for flavor enhancement.
Seal and Cook: Close the lid securely with the valve sealed. Set your Ninja Foodi to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. This step is key for achieving that buttery, creamy finish.
Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes. After that, perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam carefully.
Mash the Potatoes: Transfer the cooked potatoes to a mixing bowl, leaving the liquid behind. Then, add softened butter and whole milk to the bowl, mashing until you reach your desired texture—aim for a few small lumps for added charm!
Stir in Broth: Gently fold in the chicken broth, adjusting the salt to taste. The broth will add depth and richness, making each bite even more delightful.
Serve Warm: Scoop the fluffy mashed potatoes into serving dishes and enjoy them warm alongside your favorite entrees. They make a wonderful complement to any meal!
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped chives for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
Uniform Size: Cut potatoes into even, 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook perfectly. This helps avoid any undercooked or mushy pieces in your Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes.
Natural Pressure Release: Allowing natural pressure release for a few minutes prevents the potatoes from becoming watery. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy consistency.
Proper Draining: Drain potatoes thoroughly after cooking, then let them sit uncovered for a minute. This lets excess steam escape and helps keep your mashed potatoes light and fluffy.
Warm Butter First: Incorporate the butter while the potatoes are still hot for a smooth melt. This action ensures a rich flavor without clumps, enhancing your Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes’ creaminess.
Take It Easy on Salt: Always start with a little salt and adjust to your taste, especially if using broth that may already contain sodium. Taste as you go for perfect seasoning!
What to Serve with Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes?
After whipping up these dreamy mashed potatoes, you’ll want to complete the meal with delightful sides that elevate the experience.
Roasted Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, roast chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, soaking up their creamy goodness with each bite. The crispy skin contrasts perfectly with the fluffy texture.
Grilled Steak: The savory richness of a grilled steak complements the buttery mash, creating a hearty, satisfying dinner that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare. Don’t forget your favorite steak sauce!
Meatloaf: A classic comfort food duo, meatloaf together with mashed potatoes evokes nostalgia. Spread the warm potatoes alongside, allowing the flavors to meld in delightful harmony.
Sautéed Green Beans: For a fresh, crisp element, sautéed green beans bring color and crunch to your plate, balancing out the richness of the mashed potatoes. Toss with garlic and lemon for an extra zing!
Creamed Spinach: The creamy spinach adds a luxurious touch, working in tandem with the potatoes to create a velvety mouthfeel that’s pure bliss. You’ll want to savor every moment!
Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread is the perfect vehicle for capturing any leftover mashed potatoes. It adds texture and an irresistible flavor that will have you coming back for seconds.
Red Wine: A glass of your favorite red wine will elevate the dining experience. Its robust flavors beautifully complement the richness of both the steak and the potatoes.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, end the meal on a high note. A light chocolate mousse provides a sweet contrast, making your dinner a memorable affair. Enjoy this decadent treat!
With these wonderful pairings, your Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes will shine at the center of a delicious, warm-hearted meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious comfort food even on your busiest days! You can peel and chop the gold potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them submerged in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the mashed potatoes completely and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture. Following these make ahead steps will have you saving time while enjoying wonderfully creamy Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes!
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to enhance and adapt this comforting dish to suit your cravings and dietary needs.
Russet Upgrades: Swap gold potatoes for russets for an ultra-fluffy texture. These spuds will create a lighter, airier mash that melts in your mouth.
Creamy Vegan Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free alternative. The coconut flavor adds a unique, tropical twist!
Broth Boost: Consider using beef broth for a deeper flavor instead of chicken broth. It infuses a rich, savory essence that complements hearty meat dishes beautifully.
Herb-Infused Bliss: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme while mashing for a fragrant touch. Adding these boosts the flavor profile, bringing a delightful aroma to each bite.
Garlic Lovers: Roast garlic cloves and mix them into the mashed potatoes for a smooth, garlicky flavor. The sweetness of roasted garlic transforms the dish into something truly special!
Cheesy Indulgence: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for a gooey, cheesy texture that kids and adults alike will adore. Experiment with different cheeses for varying flavors!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat. This tweak lends a warm kick that might surprise and delight your taste buds!
Texture Twist: Incorporate sour cream or cream cheese for an extra creamy consistency. This variation brings a tangy undertone that elevates the overall richness of the dish.
Storage Tips for Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure they cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: Mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion them into freezer bags or containers, making it easy to thaw and serve later.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess and stir well!
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! Gold potatoes like Yukon are ideal for their naturally buttery flavor. If you prefer a fluffier texture, russet potatoes are a great alternative. Red potatoes, while denser, can give a heartier mash. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite!
How should I store leftover mashed potatoes?
To keep your Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing, which helps retain their creamy texture for future meals.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes for up to 2 months! To do this, portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to flatten them for easier storage. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
What if my mashed potatoes turn out too watery?
Very common! If you find your mashed potatoes are too runny, it might be due to the natural pressure release not being given enough time. Letting them sit covered for additional time after cooking can help them firm up. Also, make sure you drain them well before mashing, as excess liquid can lead to a soupy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, you can make these mashed potatoes gluten-free by using gluten-free chicken broth or even vegetable broth as a substitute. Additionally, for dairy-free options, consider using plant-based milk and dairy-free butter alternatives.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes?
For a gourmet touch, consider adding roasted garlic, chives, or even fresh herbs like parsley. You could also incorporate cream cheese or sour cream for an extra level of creaminess and flavor. Just remember, start with a small amount and taste as you go!
Ultimate Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes You'll Crave Daily
Equipment
- Ninja Foodi
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 2 pounds Gold Potatoes Or russet or red potatoes for different textures.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor during cooking.
- 4 cups Water Essential for cooking under pressure.
For the Creaminess
- 1 cup Chicken Broth Can swap with vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
- 1/2 cup Whole Milk Substitutable with half-and-half or dairy-free alternatives.
- 4 tablespoons Salted Butter Use unsalted butter if preferred, adjust salt accordingly.
Instructions
How to Make Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
- Peel and chop the gold potatoes into 2-inch chunks.
- Place the potato chunks into the Ninja Foodi pot, then add enough water to cover them. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt.
- Close the lid securely and set to high pressure for 5 minutes.
- After cooking, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release.
- Transfer the cooked potatoes to a mixing bowl and add softened butter and whole milk, mashing to desired texture.
- Gently fold in the chicken broth and adjust salt to taste.
- Serve warm in dishes alongside your favorite entrees.