Insanely-Fluffy Mashed Potato Dinner Rolls

These Insanely-Fluffy Mashed Potato Dinner Rolls are the ultimate comfort food, turning leftover mashed potatoes into soft, buttery clouds of bread. Perfect for holiday feasts, Sunday dinners, or even as the base for sliders, these rolls are light, tender, and packed with rich flavor. Once you try them, store-bought rolls just won’t compare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a clever and delicious way to use leftover mashed potatoes, creating incredibly soft and pillowy dinner rolls. The potatoes add moisture and a creamy texture while helping the dough rise beautifully. The rolls are easy to make with basic pantry ingredients and yield bakery-quality results. Whether served warm with butter or used for mini sandwiches, they’ll quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup mashed potatoes, at room temperature

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• ½ cup melted butter

• ½ cup lukewarm milk

• ½ cup lukewarm water

• 4½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons salt

• Egg wash (1 egg mixed with a tablespoon of water or milk)

Directions

1. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine mashed potatoes, eggs, melted butter, milk, and water. Mix on medium-low speed until blended.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.

3. Form the Dough:
   Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on medium-low speed until the dough is moistened. Switch to the dough hook and knead for about 10 minutes, or until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms that clears the sides of the bowl.

4. First Rise:
   Transfer the dough to a large oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with cling wrap and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1½ hours.

5. Shape the Rolls:
   Butter a 9×13-inch baking pan. On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough into 12 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Roll into smooth balls and arrange in the pan in four rows of three, seam side down.

6. Second Rise:
   Cover the pan tightly and let the rolls rise again in a warm place until doubled in size, about 45–60 minutes.

7. Preheat and Bake:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush the tops of the risen rolls with egg wash.

8. Bake the Rolls:
   Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls are baked through.

9. Cool and Serve:
   Let the rolls cool in the pan for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 rolls
Prep time: 25 minutes
Proof time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Variations

• Herb & Garlic: Add chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme and a bit of garlic powder to the dough.

• Cheesy Rolls: Mix in ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese.

• Sweet Rolls: Add 1 tablespoon honey to the dough and brush the tops with melted butter and sugar after baking.

• Whole Wheat Option: Replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version.

• Mini Rolls: Divide the dough into 16 smaller pieces and reduce the baking time by 5 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. For quick reheating, microwave individual rolls for 15–20 seconds. These rolls also freeze beautifully—store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 8 weeks. Thaw at room temperature and reheat as needed.

FAQs

What do mashed potatoes do for dinner rolls?

Mashed potatoes add moisture and starch, which help make the rolls incredibly soft and tender while improving shelf life.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

For best texture and flavor, use homemade mashed potatoes. If using instant, ensure they are thick and not overly wet.

Do I need a stand mixer to make these?

No. You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It may take a few extra minutes of kneading until smooth and elastic.

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes. Bread flour will give the rolls a slightly chewier texture, which some people prefer.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes. You can shape the rolls and refrigerate them overnight before the second rise. Bring them to room temperature before baking.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) indicates they’re fully baked.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just be sure to divide the dough between two pans and adjust your oven space as needed.

What if my dough is too sticky?

Add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s workable, but don’t overdo it—some stickiness is ideal for soft rolls.

Can I make these gluten-free?

This recipe hasn’t been tested with gluten-free flour, but a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free blend might work with some adjustments.

What’s the best way to serve these?

Serve warm with butter, jam, or as a side to soups, stews, or holiday meals.

Conclusion

These Insanely-Fluffy Mashed Potato Dinner Rolls are a must-bake for anyone who loves soft, homemade bread. With their tender crumb, buttery flavor, and versatile use, they’re perfect for any occasion—from a simple family dinner to a festive holiday feast. Once you’ve had these rolls fresh from the oven, you’ll never want to settle for store-bought again.