How Long to Cook Mashed Potatoes
Boiled potatoes mashed with butter and milk or cream.
The Short Answer
On the stove, mashed potatoes takes 15–20 minutes. Scroll down for all cooking methods, detailed instructions, and tips from the Professor.
Cooking Methods
🍳 Stovetop
Time: 15–20 minutes
Cut potatoes into even chunks. Start in cold, salted water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until a fork slides in easily (15-20 minutes). Drain, then mash with warm butter and warm milk.
⚡ Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker
Pressure: High
Time: 8–10 minutes
Release: Quick release
Cut potatoes into 1-inch chunks. Add 1 cup water or broth. 8 minutes for Yukon Gold, 10 for russets. Drain, then mash with butter and cream in the pot. One-pot meal.
Two secrets to perfect mashed potatoes: start in cold water (even cooking) and warm the butter and milk before adding (cold dairy drops the temperature and makes them gluey). And never use a blender or food processor. That turns potatoes into wallpaper paste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Russets make the fluffiest mashed potatoes due to their high starch content. Yukon Golds make creamier, richer mashed potatoes. Both are excellent.
The Bottom Line
Mashed Potatoes is straightforward to cook when you know the time and temperature. Use the method that fits your equipment and schedule, and always let the food rest before cutting or serving. Resting allows juices to redistribute and carryover cooking to finish the job.
Source: Culinary reference | Last verified: March 19, 2026 | Our methodology