Potatoes So Good They’ll Make You Forget Everything Else on the Plate

Potatoes have a way of stealing the spotlight no matter how they’re served. Mashed, roasted, fried, or baked, they’re the kind of comfort food that feels right for any occasion. It’s no wonder people keep coming back to them, plate after plate.

What makes them so special is their versatility. They can be buttery and smooth, crisp and golden, or loaded with toppings that make them a meal on their own. No matter the style, they bring warmth and familiarity that’s hard to replace.

This post is all about celebrating potatoes in their best forms. From classic favorites to creative takes, you’ll see just how easy it is for these humble spuds to take center stage at any table.

Easy Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

These come together quickly with the Instant Pot doing all the work for you. The potatoes turn soft and fluffy, ready for a quick mash with butter, cream, or your favorite add-ins. It’s a fast way to have a comforting side dish on the table without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

Potato Chip Chicken

This dish uses crushed potato chips as a crunchy coating for juicy chicken. The chips add texture and flavor, making it a fun twist on classic baked chicken. It’s an easy recipe that feels playful and still gives you a crispy finish without deep frying.
Get the Recipe: Potato Chip Chicken

Creamy Whipped Potatoes

Whipped potatoes are all about achieving that ultra-smooth, airy texture. With plenty of butter and cream, they’re rich and velvety, perfect for serving alongside roasts or holiday meals. They’re simple but give off a bit of a special-occasion feel.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Whipped Potatoes

Sichuan Stir-Fried Chinese Shredded Potato (酸辣土豆丝)

This Chinese dish features potatoes cut into thin matchsticks and quickly stir-fried with chili and vinegar. The result is a crisp, slightly sour, and spicy side that’s very different from Western potato dishes. It’s quick to prepare and makes a refreshing addition to the table.
Get the Recipe: Sichuan Stir-Fried Chinese Shredded Potato (酸辣土豆丝)

Potato Onion Pithivier

This French-inspired pie layers thinly sliced potatoes and caramelized onions inside puff pastry. The golden crust keeps everything together while adding a rich buttery bite. It looks impressive but is surprisingly straightforward to assemble.
Get the Recipe: Potato Onion Pithivier

Air Fryer French Onion Baked Potatoes

These baked potatoes are filled with caramelized onions and gooey cheese for a hearty twist. Using the air fryer keeps the skins crisp while melting everything inside beautifully. It’s like combining French onion soup with a classic baked potato.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Onion Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins

Potato skins crisp up perfectly in the air fryer, making a great base for cheese, bacon, and green onions. They’re ideal for game day or casual snacking. Plus, you can customize toppings to match your taste.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins

Mashed Potato Cakes

Leftover mashed potatoes get a new life when shaped into patties and pan-fried. The outside turns golden and crisp while the inside stays soft and creamy. They work as a snack, side dish, or even a breakfast option.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Cakes

Mustard Potato Salad

This style of potato salad gets its tang from mustard mixed into the dressing. It’s creamy yet has a punch of flavor that balances the richness of the potatoes. It’s a popular choice for picnics and barbecues.
Get the Recipe: Mustard Potato Salad

Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

Cooking potatoes in the Instant Pot makes the process quick and nearly hands-off. Once tender, they’re ready to mash with butter, milk, or cream for a smooth result. It’s a handy option for busy weeknights or holiday prep.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

Loaded Potato Salad

This recipe takes the flavors of a loaded baked potato and turns them into a chilled side dish. Think bacon, cheese, sour cream, and chives all mixed with tender potatoes. It’s hearty enough to steal the spotlight at a cookout.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Salad

Loaded Chorizo Baked Potato

Baked potatoes stuffed with spicy chorizo bring a bold, savory kick. Topped with cheese, sour cream, or avocado, it makes a filling meal on its own. It’s a fun way to turn a side dish into the main event.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Chorizo Baked Potato

Hamburger Potato Casserole

This casserole layers ground beef, sliced potatoes, and a creamy sauce. Baked until everything is tender, it’s a classic comfort food option. It works well for family dinners since it’s hearty and budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Potato Casserole

Air Fryer Baked Potato

The air fryer delivers perfectly crisp potato skins while keeping the insides fluffy. It’s quicker than using the oven and doesn’t heat up the whole kitchen. A sprinkle of salt and a pat of butter is sometimes all you need.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Potato

Mashed Potato Casserole

Mashed potatoes baked with cheese and sometimes bacon or breadcrumbs make this dish extra cozy. The top develops a golden crust while the inside stays creamy. It’s a crowd-pleasing option for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Casserole

Loaded Cheesy Potato Waffles

These waffles use a batter made with mashed potatoes, cheese, and mix-ins like bacon or herbs. Cooked in a waffle iron, they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside. They’re fun to serve for breakfast or brunch with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Cheesy Potato Waffles

Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Boiled potatoes get smashed flat and roasted until crisp, with garlic adding flavor. The texture is a mix of crunchy edges and tender centers. They’re easy to make and go with almost any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Diced Potatoes

Cubed potatoes crisp up quickly in the air fryer, needing only a bit of oil and seasoning. They’re a versatile side dish for breakfast or dinner. You can switch up spices depending on your meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Diced Potatoes

Barbecued Potatoes on the Grill

These potatoes are cooked on the grill, often wrapped in foil with butter, herbs, and seasoning. They soak up smoky flavor while staying tender inside. It’s a simple way to prepare a side dish outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Barbecued Potatoes on the Grill

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

This salad uses roasted smashed potatoes instead of the usual boiled ones. The crunchy texture makes it stand out, especially with a tangy dressing. It’s a fresh take on a picnic staple.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Amish Potato Salad

This traditional salad has a slightly sweet dressing made with vinegar, mustard, and a touch of sugar. Hard-boiled eggs are usually added for extra richness. It’s creamy, tangy, and a little different from standard versions.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad