Instant potatoes, or instant mashed potatoes, are fresh potatoes which are proceesed into granules or flakes. Most commonly the product is sold for making "instant mashed potatoes" by just adding liquid.
To Substitute For Mashed Potatoes: Make the real thing with fresh russet potatoes or other varieties such as Yukon gold.
For Use As A Topping:
Learn about the history and many types of instant mashed potatoes.