Quick Answer
Yes, you can substitute beef broth for the water when making instant mashed potatoes. Using broth instead of water adds extra flavor to the mashed potatoes. Just follow the package directions, but replace the water with an equal amount of beef broth.
Explanation
Instant mashed potatoes are a quick and easy side dish. They’re made by simply adding hot water to potato flakes or granules, which have been pre-cooked and dehydrated. This rehydrates the potatoes, allowing them to become creamy and mashed.
The package directions will specify how much water to use, usually around 1/2 to 1 cup per serving. Instead of plain water, you can use beef broth to add more depth of flavor.
Beef broth is savory and rich, made by simmering beef bones, meat, and vegetables in water. This extracts their flavors and nutrients into the broth. Using it in instant mashed potatoes infuses them with extra meaty, umami taste.
You don’t need to make adjustments. Just use the same amount of beef broth as you would water. The potatoes will absorb the broth as they rehydrate and become tender.
Benefits of Using Beef Broth
There are a few advantages to using beef broth rather than plain water:
- More flavor – Beef broth provides a richness and savory taste.
- Extra protein – Broth contains gelatin released from bones as well as nutrients from the meat.
- Natural enhancement – Broth amplifies flavor using real ingredients rather than artificial additives.
- Convenience – No extra steps required, just substitute broth for water.
The beefy, aromatic broth gives instant mashed potatoes a homemade taste. It adds complexity and makes them more interesting than using water alone.
Tips for Making Instant Mashed Potatoes with Broth
Here are some tips for getting the best results when using beef broth:
- Use hot broth – Heat it until steaming to maximize flavor extraction.
- Stir well – Mix thoroughly after adding potatoes so they absorb broth evenly.
- Add extras – Consider stirring in butter, milk, or seasonings for more flavor.
- Adjust consistency – Add extra broth if too thick or a splash of milk if too thin.
- Garnish – Top with chives, crumbled bacon, or shredded cheese if desired.
Starting with hot broth allows the potatoes to absorb the most flavor. Be sure to mix well so all the potato flakes get evenly moistened. You can further customize by adding more flavorful ingredients. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding a little more liquid.
Considerations
Here are a few things to keep in mind when using broth in instant mashed potatoes:
Sodium Content
Like most store-bought broths, beef broth can be high in sodium. This adds to the saltiness of instant mashed potatoes, which already contain some salt. Taste the potatoes after mixing and add any additional salt carefully, if needed. Or consider using low-sodium broth.
Non-Beef Broths
While beef works especially well, you can use other broths too. Chicken, vegetable, or mushroom broth will also impart extra flavor. Just use one with a savory, rich taste. Broths made from lighter meats like turkey or fish may get lost.
Reheating Leftovers
When reheating leftover mashed potatoes made with broth, they may need extra liquid. The potatoes continue absorbing moisture as they sit. Add a splash of milk or broth when warming to restore a creamy consistency.
Beef Broth vs. Bouillon and Stock
Beef broth is sometimes used interchangeably with beef bouillon and beef stock, but they are different:
Beef Broth
- Made by simmering beef in water to extract flavor
- Can contain some fat and particles of meat/veg
- Provides deep beef flavor
Beef Bouillon
- Concentrated broth reduced down until gelatinous
- Sold as cubes, powders, or pastes to be dissolved in hot water
- Gives a quick boost of beefy flavor
Beef Stock
- Made by simmering beef bones, meat, and veggies for a long time
- Strained to be clear and free of particles
- Very rich, concentrated beef essence
Any of these can be used in instant mashed potatoes, just adjust the amount of water. But broth offers the best balance of rich flavor in a ready to use liquid form.
Recipe Ideas
Beef broth adds tasty flavor to instant mashed potatoes on its own. But you can also mix in other ingredients. Here are some recipe ideas:
Ranch Mashed Potatoes
- Beef broth
- Dried ranch seasoning
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
- Beef broth
- Minced garlic
- Dried parsley, oregano, basil
- Grated parmesan
Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potatoes
- Beef broth
- Crumbled cooked bacon
- Shredded pepper jack cheese
- Chopped chives
Southwestern Mashed Potatoes
- Beef broth
- Cumin, chili powder, oregano
- Diced tomatoes and green chilies
- Shredded pepper jack
Let the beef broth enhance the potatoes, then get creative with mix-ins like cheese, herbs, spices, vegetables, or meats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about making instant mashed potatoes with broth:
Can I use other broths instead of beef?
Yes, you can use chicken, vegetable, or other broths. Go for ones with lots of savory flavor. Broths made from milder meats or fish likely won’t impart as much taste.
Do I use the same amount of broth as water?
Yes, substitute beef broth 1:1 for the amount of water called for in the potato directions. Use the same volume of broth as you would water.
Should broth be hot or cold when mixing?
Hot broth is best, as it will provide the most flavor extraction. Heating it to steaming or simmering before adding to the potatoes is ideal.
Can broth be used in microwavable instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, broth can be used instead of water when preparing microwavable instant mashed potatoes. Follow the package instructions but use broth in place of water.
How long do leftovers made with broth keep?
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-5 days. The broth may cause them to spoil faster than plain mashed potatoes. Reheat to 165°F until hot. Add milk or broth if too thick.
Nutrition Information
Using beef broth instead of water slightly increases the nutrition content of instant mashed potatoes:
| Nutrient | Instant Mashed Potatoes Made with Water (1 cup) | Instant Mashed Potatoes Made with Beef Broth (1 cup) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 156 | 170 |
| Protein | 3g | 5g |
| Fat | 0.5g | 2g |
| Carbs | 34g | 34g |
| Fiber | 2g | 2g |
| Sodium | 440mg | 780mg |
The broth adds a small amount of protein and fat. However sodium increases significantly, so season with care.
Conclusion
Using beef broth instead of water to make instant mashed potatoes is an easy way to take them from bland to delicious. The savory, aromatic broth infuses them with extra beefy flavor and richness.
Just swap the water for an equal amount of hot broth when preparing the potatoes. Then mix, taste, and adjust seasonings as needed. Leftovers may require a little extra liquid when reheating.
Flavoring instant mashed potatoes with broth gives them more taste and nutrition than using water alone. So go ahead and grab that box off the shelf and elevate it with a subtle but impactful swap.