Microwave Mashed Potatoes With Canned Diced Beets

Craving comfort food without the hassle? Our microwave mashed potatoes with canned beets deliver creamy satisfaction in under 10 minutes. At under $2 per serving, this recipe proves cheap eats don’t have to sacrifice flavor or flair.

We’ll show you how to transform pantry staples into a vibrant, filling meal. No stove, no peeling potatoes, and zero fancy skills required—just your trusty microwave.

This guide covers taste tweaks, texture fixes, and safety tips for nuking canned beets. Get ready to master budget-friendly microwaving magic!

What Do Canned Diced Beets Taste Like?

My mom Linda swore by canned beets for picnics—no slicing, no stains, just pop the lid. One summer, Dad George “accidentally” dumped a whole can into our potato salad. Turns out, their earthy sweetness and tangy brine made that dish legendary.

Flavor Profile and Texture Of Canned Beets

Canned beets taste like mellowed-out earthiness with a sweet-tart kick from the preserving liquid. They’re softer than fresh-roasted beets but retain a slight firmness—think “gentle crunch” meets velvety give. The brine adds a salty brightness that cuts through creamy potatoes beautifully.

Ingredients for Microwave Instant Mashed Potatoes With Canned Beets

We’re talking minimal effort, maximum comfort. My go-to list includes:

• Instant mashed potatoes (Idahoan Buttery Homestyle or store brand)
• Canned diced beets (Hunts or generic—they’re all pre-cooked)
• Butter or margarine ($0.10 per tbsp)
• Milk or water (tap works!)
• Salt + pepper (optional)

Essential Ingredients and Affordable Substitutes

No milk? Use water + extra butter. Out of butter? Margarine adds the same richness at $2.50/lb vs $5. Skip fresh herbs—garlic powder (5 cents per dash) gives depth without the fuss. Canned beets cost ~$1.19 vs $3.50/lb fresh—budget win! For quick and affordable meals, consider using cheap microwave canned black bean cheese as a versatile ingredient.

Alternatives for Dairy-free or Low-sodium Diets

Dairy-free? Swap milk for unsweetened almond milk ($0.15/serving) and butter for vegan spreads. Watching sodium? Rinse beets under water for 30 seconds—cuts salt by ~35%. Use low-sodium potato flakes (Hungry Jack has a 140mg version). If you’re warming up a drink or recipe, heating almond milk in the microwave is a quick option. Just remember to do it in short bursts to prevent it from boiling over.

Ready to turn these humble ingredients into a technicolor comfort bowl? Let’s zap some magic…

How to Make Microwave Instant Mashed Potatoes With Canned Diced Beets

My college roommate once tried microwaving potatoes and beets together. Let’s just say her pink-speckled microwave taught us to heat them separately. Here’s the smarter method.

Step-by-step Microwaving Instructions

1. Drain ½ cup canned beets (save juice!) into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat uncovered for 60 seconds at 1000W.
2. In another bowl, mix instant potatoes with hot water/milk per package. Stir in 1 tbsp butter.
3. Fold warmed beets into potatoes. For extra pink flair, add 1 tsp beet juice. Microwave 30 seconds to fuse flavors.

Tips for Perfect Microwave Consistency

Instant potatoes can go from fluffy to gluey fast. Add liquids gradually—start with ¼ cup less than the package says. You can always stir in more. If your spuds look dry post-microwave, drizzle in warmed milk 1 tsp at a time. For an effortless meal option, consider using a lazy microwave instant mashed potato bowl. These bowls provide a quick and convenient way to enjoy creamy mashed potatoes without the hassle of traditional cooking methods.

Beets release moisture when reheated. Always drain them well—blotting with a paper towel removes ~1 tsp excess liquid. Hate splatters? Place a microwave-safe plate under bowls.

Also See: 5 Quick & Easy Vegan Mug Cakes for a Guilt-free Treat

Can You Microwave Canned Diced Beets Safely?

Yes, but there’s a trick! Canned beets are already cooked during processing. Microwaving just warms them. Skip the aluminum can—transfer beets to a glass or ceramic dish first. Pairing them with lazy microwave boxed rice makes for a quick, nutritious meal. Mixing in canned diced beets adds flavor and a pop of color to your plate.

Best Practices for Heating Beets in the Microwave

Drain 95% of the can liquid (keep some for color). Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent shriveling. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between zaps. At 1100W, 60-90 seconds gets them piping hot without turning rubbery.

Pro tip: Add a sprinkle of sugar before heating. It caramelizes slightly, balancing the beet’s natural acidity. Thank me later!

Also See: Cheap Microwave Canned Black Bean Quesadilla

Serving Variations for Mashed Potatoes and Beets

This dish is a blank canvas. My toddler once stirred in applesauce—surprisingly decent! Here are less chaotic ideas. Making a simple applesauce in the microwave can be a quick and easy addition to any meal. It only takes a few minutes and is a fun activity for kids!

Creative Mix-ins and Topping Ideas

• Crunch: Fried onions ($0.25/serving) or crushed pretzels
• Creamy: Goat cheese crumbles or sour cream
• Protein punch: Chopped hard-boiled eggs or canned white beans

Balancing Flavors With Herbs or Spices

Beets love acidic partners. Try ½ tsp lemon zest or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. For earthy notes, smoked paprika (¼ tsp) or dried thyme pairs well. Budget hack? Use the spice packets from ramen noodles—they’re free flavor boosters! If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy beets, consider experimenting with baking beet chips in the microwave. This method allows for a quick and healthy snack that’s full of flavor.

Now that you’ve mastered the mash, let’s tackle keeping leftovers fresh (because cold pink potatoes are still delicious). A quick and easy way to reheat mashed potatoes using the microwave is to use the microwave. This method can help you enjoy your mashed potatoes without any fuss.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

We’ve all been there—staring at day-old pink potatoes wondering if they’ll survive the microwave. Fear not! My husband once reheated this dish three days straight, declaring it “better each time.” Here’s how we keep leftovers lively.

Microwave-friendly Storage Methods

Store potatoes and beets together in a glass container with a vented lid. Plastic warps if reheated repeatedly. Leave ½ inch space at the top—steam needs room to dance. For single portions, wide-mouth mason jars ($1.25 each at dollar stores) work beautifully. Cooking beets in the microwave can be a quick and easy method. Just be sure to adjust the timing based on the size of the beets for perfect results.

Pro tip: Dab a paper towel over the beets before storing. It soaks up excess juice that could turn potatoes gummy overnight. Trust me, your future self will high-five you. For a quick and tasty meal, pairing those beets with cheap microwave instant mashed potatoes offers a nutritious side that’s ready in minutes.

Avoiding Texture Changes in Reheated Potatoes

Microwaves zap moisture. To combat dryness, splash 1 tsp milk or reserved beet juice over potatoes before reheating. Cover with a damp paper towel—it acts like a mini sauna. Heat at 50% power for 60 seconds, stir, then blast 15 seconds at full power.

Beets contain pectin, which firms up when chilled. If yours feel too sturdy, stir in ¼ tsp butter before reheating. The fat coats their cells, restoring that tender “just cooked” bite. For quick and easy meals, consider pairing them with lazy microwave pre-cooked sausage and canned diced beets, which make for a delightful and hassle-free combination.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

I once turned my spuds into a rubbery pink puck. Turns out, instant potatoes are drama queens—they demand precise liquid ratios. Let’s troubleshoot your texture traumas.

Preventing Dry Mashed Potatoes

Instant potatoes absorb liquid as they sit. When prepping leftovers, mix in 1 tbsp warm liquid per cup before microwaving. Water works, but beet juice (2 tbsp = 5 calories) adds vibranky and moisture. Stir every 15 seconds—agitation prevents cement-like clumps.

Adjusting Liquid Ratios for Instant Potatoes

Brands vary wildly. Idahoan needs ⅔ cup liquid per serving; Great Value uses ¾ cup. Start with 25% less than the package says. You can always add more, but you can’t take it back! Too thin? Sprinkle potato flakes ½ tsp at a time while hot.

Dairy-free tip: Coconut milk (canned, not carton) adds richness without curdling. Use ⅓ cup per serving—it’s thicker than almond milk. Budget bonus: A $1.79 can makes 4+ batches. This creamy ingredient is perfect for various recipes, including a delightful microwave pumpkin custard. Enjoy the ease of making a tasty, comforting dessert that can be ready in minutes with this combination of flavors.

Now that your leftovers are sorted, let’s explore how this dish packs a nutritional punch worthy of your meal rotation. With a little creativity, you can elevate your leftovers into something extraordinary. Utilizing microwave tricks can transform a simple meal into a gourmet experience.

Now It’s Your Turn to Try!

This cheap microwave instant mashed potato with canned diced beets is a game-changer for quick, budget-friendly meals. With just a few minutes and simple ingredients, you’ll have a colorful, nutritious dish that’s surprisingly delicious.

We’d love to hear how your microwave mash turns out – did you add any creative twists? The earthy sweetness of beets pairs perfectly with creamy potatoes, making this combo our new go-to lazy meal. Happy microwaving!