Are there any dairy free instant mashed potatoes?

Quick Answers

Yes, there are several brands of dairy free instant mashed potatoes available. The main ingredients in instant mashed potatoes are potatoes, potato starch, and salt. Most major brands offer dairy free versions without milk, butter, or other dairy ingredients.

Detailed Overview

Instant mashed potatoes provide a quick and easy way to prepare mashed potatoes without having to boil and mash whole potatoes. They are a powdered product that can be prepared by simply adding hot water or milk. The potato flakes or granules hydrate and thicken to create smooth mashed potatoes in just a few minutes.

While traditional instant mashed potatoes often contain milk, butter, or other dairy ingredients for extra creaminess and flavor, there are several dairy free options on the market:

  • Betty Crocker Instant Mashed Potatoes – Most flavors are dairy free, like the Original, Garlic & Herb, and Loaded Baked Potato varieties. Check labels to avoid cheesy options.
  • Idahoan Instant Mashed Potatoes – The Original Mashed and various flavored options are dairy-free.
  • Hormel Compleats Microwave Meals – The mashed potatoes packaged with some of their shelf-stable meals are dairy free.
  • Simply Organic Instant Mashed Potatoes – Certified organic and dairy free. Only contain potatoes, potato starch, and salt.
  • Bob’s Red Mill Instant Mashed Potatoes – Vegan and gluten free. Made from potato flakes and potato starch.

Some additional brands that offer dairy free instant mashed potato options include Hungry Jack, Pineland Farms, andcriteri Store Brands. Always check the ingredients list to confirm the particular variety is dairy free.

Ingredients to Avoid

When purchasing instant mashed potatoes, look for varieties that do not contain:

  • Milk – Milk adds creaminess but contains the milk protein casein.
  • Butter – Butter adds rich flavor but contains milk proteins.
  • Cream – Cream contributes a creamy texture but contains milk fat.
  • Cheese – Some flavored varieties include cheese for extra flavor.
  • Whey – Whey is a milk-based byproduct.
  • Ghee – Ghee is clarified butter, so not dairy free.
  • Lactose – Lactose is the natural sugar found in milk. Some people with lactose intolerance need to avoid it.

As long as the ingredients contain only potatoes, potato starch, vegetable oil, and salt, the instant mashed potatoes should be dairy free.

Non-Dairy Substitutions

To make basic instant mashed potatoes creamier and richer without using dairy products, try adding any of these substitutions:

  • Plant-based milk – Soy, almond, oat, or other vegan-friendly milk adds creaminess. Use plain instead of flavored.
  • Coconut milk – The thick creaminess of canned coconut milk works well in mashed potatoes.
  • Nutritional yeast – Adds a cheesy, nutty flavor.
  • Mashed avocado – Contributes creaminess and texture.
  • Olive oil or coconut oil – Adds a buttery flavor.
  • Cashew cream – Blended soaked cashews create a rich, dairy-like cream.
  • Plant-based butter – Vegan butter products help replicate a buttery flavor.

Start with small amounts of any non-dairy substitutions and adjust to preference. Too much coconut milk or oil may make the potatoes too thin.

Recipe Ideas

Dairy free instant mashed potatoes are extremely versatile. They pair well with many meals and can be used in recipes like:

  • Loaded potato bowls – Top mashed potatoes with bacon bits, green onion, sautéed mushrooms, etc.
  • Twice baked potatoes – Scoop out baked potatoes and mix filling with instant mashed potatoes.
  • Potato pancakes – Mix mashed potatoes with onion and cilantro. Pan fry patties.
  • Potato gnocchi – Add potatoes to flour and bake gnocchi dough before boiling.
  • Potato soup – Blend cooked potatoes into a creamy soup base.
  • Shepherd’s pie – Layer seasoned meat and vegetables with mashed potatoes on top.

The possibilities are endless! Instant mashed potatoes add convenience without sacrificing taste or texture when prepared dairy free.

Nutritional Benefits

Mashed potatoes made from potato flakes or granules provide the same nutritional benefits as cooked whole potatoes. Some key nutrients include:

  • Carbohydrates – Potatoes are high in starchy carbs and provide an excellent source of energy.
  • Vitamin C – Potatoes contain Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant for immune health.
  • Potassium – Potatoes are a high potassium food, crucial for heart health and fluid balance.
  • B Vitamins – Potatoes offer small amounts of thiamin, folate, vitamin B6, and pantothenic acid.
  • Dietary fiber – The potato skins provide insoluble and soluble fiber for digestive regularity.

When prepared without high fat and high sodium add-ins, instant mashed potatoes are naturally fat and cholesterol free. They can fit well into a healthy diet accompanied by lean proteins and vegetables.

Storage Tips

To maintain freshness and quality, be sure to store instant mashed potatoes properly:

  • Keep packages sealed in a cool, dry place like the pantry or cupboard.
  • Check expiration or best-by dates and use within that timeframe.
  • Once a package is opened, transfer contents to an airtight container.
  • To extend shelf life, store opened potato flakes or granules in the refrigerator.
  • Use opened packages within a few months for best quality and flavor.

With proper storage, unopened instant mashed potatoes typically last up to one year past the production date. The potatoes may not spoil after that time, but their texture and flavor will deteriorate.

Cost Comparison

Instant mashed potatoes are generally much more affordable than fresh potatoes. Here is a basic cost comparison:

Product Average Price
1 lb bag instant mashed potatoes $2-$3
5 lb bag Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (to make 4 servings mashed) $3-$4

Depending on the brand, package size, and sales, prices may vary. But per serving, instant potatoes can cost significantly less than fresh. They offer convenience without sacrificing too much value.

Availability

Instant mashed potatoes are widely available at most major grocery stores, mass retailers, warehouse clubs, and online:

  • Grocery stores – Found in the potato or side dish aisle. May carry store brand.
  • Walmart – Great Value and various name brands.
  • Target – Market Pantry and name brand options.
  • Costco – Kirkland Signature instant mashed potatoes come in large pouches.
  • Amazon – Carries brands like Idahoan, Simply Organic, Bob’s Red Mill, and more.
  • Boxed meal delivery services – Brands like Hungry Root include instant mashed potato packets in meal kits.

The most common package sizes are single serving pouches, 4-6 serving boxes, and bulk bags. Prices are very reasonable at major retailers, especially for store brands.

Popular Brands

These are some of the top instant mashed potato brands offering dairy free options:

  • Idahoan – Offers Original Mashed Potatoes along with about a dozen different seasoned flavors. All are dairy free.
  • Betty Crocker – Several flavors are dairy free, including Original, Loaded Baked, and Garlic & Herb.
  • Simply Organic – Certified USDA organic. Only contain potatoes, potato starch, and salt.
  • Bob’s Red Mill – Vegan, gluten free potato granules made from potatoes and potato starch.
  • Hungry Jack – Includes dairy free options like Original and Garlic & Herb flavors.

There are store brands like Great Value and Kirkland Signature that offer basic instant mashed potatoes for a budget price. Overall, finding dairy free options from major brands is not difficult.

Taste Testing Recommendations

For best flavor and texture, consider these tips when taste testing dairy free instant mashed potatoes:

  • Prepare according to package instructions, using the recommended liquid for creaminess.
  • Try plain unseasoned varieties to judge overall potato flavor.
  • Add a dash of salt and pepper or pat of dairy free butter to enhance flavor.
  • Whisk vigorously after adding potatoes to liquid to get a smooth, lump-free consistency.
  • For added richness, stir in plain unsweetened plant milk and heat through.
  • Sample multiple brands to determine differences in potato quality and consistency.

Keeping tasting expectations realistic for an instant product can help find one of the better dairy free options available. Focus on potato flavor and creamy, smooth texture.

Customer Reviews

Here are some top rated dairy free instant mashed potato products according to customer reviews:

  • Idahoan Original Mashed Potatoes – “These are so creamy and delicious! Work well for my dairy intolerance.”
  • Simply Organic Instant Mashed Potatoes – “All natural and tastes just like real mashed potatoes. Love these for a quick side dish.”
  • Betty Crocker Original Potatoes – “As good as homemade mashed potatoes without all the hassle. Always keep a box on hand for busy weeknights.”
  • Bob’s Red Mill Mashed Potatoes – “These are so easy and taste great. My new go-to potatoes as a vegan.”

Reviews indicate many customers are pleasantly surprised with the flavor and texture of dairy free instant mashed potato brands. They offer an easy way to enjoy mashed potatoes without milk or butter.

FAQs

Are instant mashed potatoes naturally dairy free?

Most plain instant mashed potatoes only contain potatoes, potato starch, vegetable oil, and salt. As long as no milk, butter, or other dairy ingredients are added, they are dairy free by nature.

Do you need milk to make instant mashed potatoes?

No, milk is not required. The potatoes will hydrate and thicken with just hot water. However, plant-based milk can be used for extra creaminess.

Can you use almond milk instead of regular milk?

Yes, plain unsweetened almond milk can replace cow’s milk in instant mashed potatoes. Other plant milks like soy or oat milk also work well. Use them to make dairy free instant mashed potatoes creamier.

Are boxed scalloped potatoes dairy free?

Most brands of boxed scalloped potatoes are not dairy free, since they contain milk or cheese as a primary ingredient. Stick to plain instant mashed potatoes for a dairy free version.

Do you need butter for instant mashed potatoes?

Butter is not required, but it adds richness and flavor. Opt for a dairy free, plant-based butter if needed. Olive or coconut oil can also substitute for butter.

The Bottom Line

Dairy free instant mashed potatoes provide a quick, convenient side dish perfect for busy schedules. Major brands like Idahoan, Betty Crocker, and Simply Organic offer varieties free of milk, butter, and other dairy. With mindful label reading and a few non-dairy substitutions, homemade taste and texture can be achieved in minutes.

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