Did you realize you can whip up your favorite side dish IN THE MICROWAVE? And no, I don’t mean store-bought Mashed Potatoes, but the real deal dish.
My mom used to make these “cheater mashed potatoes” (her words not mine), on weeknights all the time. When you’re just feeding your immediate family their most requested side dish, there’s no need to prepare a big batch of mashed potatoes like it’s Thanksgiving dinner. Instead, outsource to that box on your counter, yeah that microwave thing you only use for reheating because you’re such a proud ultra-chef. Dare you use it to whip up a more convenient style of mashed potatoes? I swear they’ll come out tasting just as good and no one will question your cooking methods.
Buttery, smooth, creamy mashed potatoes — the microwave can get you all that, and we really do need to give ourselves a break when and where we can and take full advantage of all our kitchen gadgets. I know using the microwave is associated with a ready-made meal, but it can really work wonders on easing your load if you let it. I proudly use the microwave for a few selected dishes and I’m always thrilled with the results. Check out how to Microwave Bacon and Oatmeal to save time on breakfast. Or, perhaps add some bacon to your mashed potatoes.
Can I make variations?
I believe variety is the real spice of life! If you’re looking to add a bump of flavor to these simple mashed potatoes, you totally have options to do so. Here are some tried and tested ideas:
Bacon and cheese: As I mentioned above, maybe add some bacon to them and sprinkle some cheddar cheese.
Garlic: You can also mix about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder along with the salt and pepper to turn these into garlic mashed potatoes.
Beets: Surprise your kids with pink mashed potatoes! I love this, just add 2 precooked beets (about half a can) to the potatoes after you take them out of the microwave. If you’re adding beets you’ll need an electric hand mixer to totally blend everything. You can also add some garlic powder to these and top them with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a super delicious pink dish.
Sweet potatoes: Skip the russets altogether and opt for some sweet potato mash. This too can be done in the microwave, using the same method, but it may require a few extra minutes to cook. Also, leave out the salt and pepper and consider replacing with cinnamon. I also prefer to use a couple dollops of cream cheese in place of the milk.
Just cheese: You can always have cheesy microwavable mashed potatoes. Just add in your favorite cheese before mixing. I love using Gouda, cheddar, or Parmesan. Go for multiple cheeses if you want. I usually only add about 1 cup of cheese to get the flavor and still have a lovely texture.
How to Store?
These mashed potatoes will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Sadly, this isn’t a freezer-friendly dish because the texture will become gritty.
Serving Suggestions
Mashed potatoes are a classic beloved side dish that can pair perfectly with just about anything. Of course, they are a must-have on every holiday dinner table spread. A Thanksgiving or Christmas Turkey Breast without a side of mashed potatoes and Homemade Brown Gravy will not do.
But these microwave-mashed potatoes go perfectly with weeknight dinners in need of a lovable side. Like a comforting Beef Stew made in the slow cooker and all that’s left is to microwave some mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious broth. The thought alone is enough to make me feel all warm and cozy.
Or, if I’ve put a great deal of effort into making Oven-Fried Chicken and need to quickly make some sides, that’s when it’s time to pop some potatoes in the microwave. Regardless of what I’m eating them with, I’m grateful to have the option to make my mash in the microwave with a bit of extra ease.
Microwave Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds potatoes peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks
- 3/4 to 1 cup milk
- 4 to 6 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into pieces
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper freshly ground, to taste
Instructions
- Place the potato chunks in a large microwave-safe bowl.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid, leaving a small gap to allow steam to escape. Or cover with plastic wrap and pierce with a knife.
- Microwave on high for 9 to 12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave using oven mitts.
- In a separate microwave-safe container, heat the milk and butter together for about 30 to 50 seconds, or until the butter is mostly melted.
- Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or electric hand mixer until smooth.
- Gradually add the warm milk and butter to the potatoes, mashing to incorporate. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot as a delightful side to your main dish.
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