What’s better than creamy mashed potatoes? ‘Loaded’ mash potatoes! That wonderful texture combined with cheese, chives, bacon, and sour cream makes any meal scrumptious. But, honestly, I rarely make them. I just don’t have the time or energy to prepare them and peeling potatoes is such a pain.

In the Netherlands, potatoes are a regular part of dinner and we ate them almost every evening. How do instant potatoes compare? What about flavored ones? I was sent the below pack to try out Betty Crocker “Loaded Mashed” and find out for myself.

One thing that immediately stood out to me were the needed ingredients. You only need milk, butter, water, and the mix. These are items that are always on hand so no stressing over missing ingredients or having to run to the store really quick.

Once you have everything ready, the preparation is extremely easy and can be done in less than eight minutes. Just put everything together, stir, microwave, stir, and serve.

It’s that simple. I love how quick and easy this is since it’s not uncommon for me to forget to make some sides.

So how did it taste? I liked it. I felt that the seasoning was just right and that the texture was good. I do prefer my potatoes on the creamier side so I may add a bit more milk next time (and there will be a next time as each box comes with two packets). I served the potatoes with some meat and veggies, a perfect compliment. As this mix is very heavy on the dairy, I made my daughter some white rice instead because of her lactose intolerance.

I was pleasantly surprised, as was my husband. Not only were these potatoes a cinch to cook but they were tasty as well. It is also comforting to know that 100% real russet potatoes were used. According to the Betty Crocker site, there are eight more flavors for me to stock up on!

For a night that you are just plain pooped to cook and don’t want to splurge on eating out, this is a great option.

As an added incentive, you can get $0.55 off one box of new Betty Crocker “Loaded Mashed” potatoes with your readers with this coupon!

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► Giveaway closed, winners announced here!
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WIN IT!
One reader will receive the same prize pack I received that includes a box of new Betty Crocker “Loaded Mashed” potatoes, a mixing bowl, a magnetic hanging pot holder, silicone spoonula, and measuring cup.

To enter (mandatory):
Tell me which of your family’s favorite foods would you most like to try with these potatoes?

For additional entries leave a comment for each you do:

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Giveaway ends 5/31/11 at 11:59 PST. Open to US residents only. Winner has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen.

Disclosure: I was provided with the above mentioned product(s) from Betty Crocker through MyBlogSpark at no charge to facilitate this review, which contains 100% my honest opinion.