Easy Microwave Mashed Potatoes Recipe from www.thespruceeats.com
Introduction
Mashed potatoes are a staple side dish that pairs well with many main dishes. They are easy to prepare, delicious, and comforting. However, making mashed potatoes can be time-consuming and messy. Luckily, you can make mashed potatoes in a microwave in just a few minutes. This recipe will show you how to make microwave mashed potatoes that are creamy, fluffy, and flavorful.
Ingredients
4 medium potatoes
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Potatoes
Choose potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free of bruises or blemishes. Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes because they have a high starch content, which makes them fluffy when mashed.
Milk
You can use any type of milk you prefer, such as whole milk, 2% milk, or skim milk. If you want to make the mashed potatoes creamier, you can use heavy cream or sour cream instead of milk.
Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to the mashed potatoes. You can use salted or unsalted butter, depending on your preference.
Salt and Pepper
Salt and pepper are essential seasonings for mashed potatoes. Use kosher salt or sea salt for best results.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes thoroughly and peel them if desired. Cut them into small pieces of similar size so that they cook evenly. Put the potato pieces in a microwave-safe bowl.
Step 2: Microwave the Potatoes
Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Microwave the potatoes on high for 5 minutes. Check the potatoes with a fork; if they are not tender, microwave them for another minute or two.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Remove the bowl from the microwave and add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher until they are smooth and creamy. If the potatoes are too dry, add more milk or butter as needed.
Step 4: Serve the Potatoes
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
One serving of microwave mashed potatoes (1/2 cup) contains approximately:
Calories: 120
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 4g
Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
Microwave mashed potatoes are a quick, easy, and delicious side dish that you can make in a pinch. With just a few simple ingredients and a microwave, you can have creamy, fluffy, and flavorful mashed potatoes in minutes. Experiment with different seasonings and garnishes to customize the recipe to your taste. Enjoy!
