14 Mashed Potato Recipes That Belong on the Table

Mashed potatoes are the side dish that never goes out of style. They can be simple and buttery, loaded with cheese and bacon, or dressed up with garlic, miso, or even an Asian-inspired twist. Whether you’re using the stove, slow cooker, Instant Pot, or even the microwave, there’s a recipe here that works for any night of the week. From comforting classics to creative upgrades, these mashed potatoes prove just how versatile one humble ingredient can be.

Southern Mashed Potatoes

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Rich and hearty, these potatoes use plenty of butter and cream. The texture is thicker than some versions, with a homey feel. They’re big on flavor and comfort. Perfect for family meals.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mashed Potatoes

Copycat Ponderosa Steakhouse Loaded Mashed Potatoes

These potatoes are mixed with cheese, bacon, and green onions for a hearty steakhouse-style side. Each spoonful has layers of flavor and texture. They’re indulgent without being complicated. A true crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Ponderosa Steakhouse Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes

This classic version is smooth, buttery, and timeless. Simple ingredients make it an easy go-to for any dinner. The texture is fluffy and light. A recipe that never fails.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Quick Weeknight Mashed Potatoes

Fast and easy, these potatoes are ready in about 30 minutes. They’re buttery, fluffy, and made with pantry staples. Great for busy nights when you need a reliable side. Simple, classic comfort.
Get the Recipe: Quick Weeknight Mashed Potatoes

Easy, Creamy Microwave Mashed Potatoes

An image of microwave mashed potatoes in a bowl with fresh herbs on top and a fork resting on the right side of the bowl. — Easy, Creamy Microwave Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These potatoes cook right in the microwave, making them perfect for small batches. They’re smooth, buttery, and surprisingly quick. No stovetop required. Great for last-minute meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Creamy Microwave Mashed Potatoes

Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Close up of mashed potatoes with a slice of butter and a golden spoon. — Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

The Instant Pot makes these potatoes soft and ready to mash in no time. Garlic adds savory depth. They’re quick, creamy, and full of flavor. Perfect for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Miso Mayo Mashed Potatoes

Miso paste and mayo bring savory umami flavor to this creamy mash. It’s smooth with a bold taste that’s a little unexpected. A modern twist on tradition. Pairs well with grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Miso Mayo Mashed Potatoes

Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes garnished with chopped parsley. — Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Quick Prep Recipes.

The slow cooker does all the work, making these potatoes tender and flavorful. They’re mashed right in the pot for easy cleanup. Perfect for holidays or busy days. Warm, creamy, and ready when you are.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Close up of mashed potatoes in a Dutch oven, with wooden spoon. — Cheesy Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Melted cheese turns this mash into something rich and indulgent. The texture is creamy with gooey bits of cheese throughout. Use cheddar, parmesan, or a mix. Perfect with steak or chicken.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Roasted or sautéed garlic is blended into fluffy potatoes for a fragrant, savory side. The flavor is bold without overpowering. They pair with almost anything. A must for garlic lovers.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Asian Mashed Potatoes (With Asian Twist)

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with butter, chopped green onions, seaweed strips, and black sesame seeds. — Creamy Asian Mashed Potatoes (With Asian Twist). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Soy sauce, sesame oil, or other seasonings add a unique depth to these mashed potatoes. The result is savory, nutty, and flavorful. They’re creamy but different enough to stand out. A creative side dish idea.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Asian Mashed Potatoes (With Asian Twist)

Red Skin Mashed Potatoes

The skins add texture and a rustic look to this mash. They’re creamy but a little chunky, with a buttery flavor. No peeling required. Easy and hearty.
Get the Recipe: Red Skin Mashed Potatoes

Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Bowl of mashed potatoes with a pat of butter on top, garnished with parsley. A spoon and a sprig of parsley are next to the bowl. — Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Blending cottage cheese into the mash makes it creamy with a subtle tang. The texture is rich but still light. It’s a unique twist that works with roasted meats or veggies. Comforting with a little extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes with gravy and sprigs of thyme and sage. — Creamy Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

These potatoes are whipped until smooth and silky with plenty of butter and cream. They’re rich but balanced. Perfect alongside roasts, chicken, or even on their own. The ultimate comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Potatoes