Perfect for any time of year, mashed potatoes may be the most well-loved side dish ever, and for good reason! These dairy free mashed potatoes are creamy, smooth, buttery and so simple to make. If you’re used to adding a lot of dairy to your potatoes, don’t worry. Just because these potatoes don’t contain butter or milk products doesn’t make them any less incredible, and no one will know! If you love potatoes, make sure to try my Vegan Scalloped Potatoes as well. Both recipes are a must-have at Thanksgiving dinner. And don’t forget the gravy!
Ingredients needed (with substitutions)
Potatoes – My top choice for mashed potatoes are russet, but yukon gold are a pretty good choice as well. Leave some of the skin on if using yukon golds for texture, if desired. Red potatoes would also work. Garlic – This is optional, but I love the addition. You will cook it along with the potatoes, infusing them with garlic flavor. Leave it out if needed or desired. Vegan butter – There are so many options these days, so choose your favorite. I highly recommend Miyoko’s brand here if you can, it is amazing. For oil free, just leave out the butter. Plant milk – Make sure to use unsweetened AND unflavored milk here, no vanilla or sugar. Check the ingredients to make sure there is no sugar or flavoring, or your potatoes will be ruined. I prefer almond, cashew or soy milk here. For creamier potatoes, use Cashew Cream instead! Salt + pepper – To taste.
How to make vegan mashed potatoes
It’s so easy! Scroll down to the recipe card for the full, printable recipe. This is simply an overview with photos. Heat your plant milk in the microwave until just warm, not boiling, then add a little at a time to the potatoes while mashing, until they are creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper, to taste until just right, and serve.
Meal prep
You can prepare the mashed potatoes up to two days in advance. Follow the recipe exactly, then cool, cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, place in an oven safe dish and warm at 350 degrees F for about 30-40 minutes until warm, adding a little more milk if they dry out. Or re-warm in a crock pot on low for 3-4 hours.
Tips for success
Mash with a potato masher, not a hand mixer. They will get plenty creamy and smooth, and you won’t take the risk of having gummy mashed potatoes. Plus, it’s easier! The kind of potato you use matters, so use russet for the best classic mashed potatoes. Yukon gold potatoes are also a good choice, or even red potatoes. Don’t skip the fresh garlic cooked with the potatoes. It adds great flavor! If needed, add a little garlic powder instead. Please make sure to use unsweetened, unflavored milk. Nothing worse than vanilla flavored mashed potatoes! And warm it before adding, so the potatoes stay hot and it absorbs better. Use a quality vegan butter that you like, such as Miyoko’s. I also like Earth Balance and Country Crock.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make them in an Instant Pot? To use the instant pot, place the peeled and chopped potatoes + garlic in the inner pot, cover with cold water and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Do a quick release and drain. Add back to the pot or another bowl and mash with the remaining ingredients. Can I make them in a Crock Pot? Yes! Add potatoes, garlic and water to a 4-QT slow cooker and cook on high for about 4 hours or low for 7 hours, until tender. Stir every once in a while. Drain the potatoes, add back to crock pot and mash with remaining ingredients. Keep warm until ready to serve. How to store or freeze mashed potatoes – Cooked mashed potatoes will keep for 2-4 days in the refrigerator. They can be frozen if needed. To freeze, place cooled mashed potatoes in a freezer safe bag or container. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator for a day or two, if possible. Reheat on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed throughout.
What to serve with vegan mashed potatoes
You can get really creative here! Mashed potatoes go well with many dishes. For Thanksgiving (See all my vegan Thanksgiving recipes here) or holiday dinners, try serving with one of these:
Vegan Turkey Roast The Best Vegan Meatloaf Lentil Loaf Best Vegan Stuffing
Or for other every day meals:
Crispy Baked BBQ Tofu Skillet BBQ Tempeh BBQ Cauliflower Zucchini Fritters Vegan Chicken Chickpea Curry – have over potatoes instead of rice.
