Under-the-block mash hack
A viral 7-minute microwave cooking method popularized by content creator MJ McCormick. Designed to upgrade a cheap, chilled block of store-bought microwave mashed potato (specifically Aldi's 89p mash) into a rich, velvety, pub-quality side dish. The method utilizes physics by physically lifting the solid, cold block of potato and tucking a generous slab of butter underneath it. When microwaved, the trapped butter melts and steams upwards through the potato, preventing messy splatters and infusing the mash perfectly without needing extra pans.
"Don't just stick that chilled Aldi potato tray straight in the microwave. Do the under-the-block mash hack first if you want it to taste like a pub meal."
Under-the-block mash hack by MJ McCormick October 25, 2026