It’s a common question among home cooks: can you freeze cooked potatoes? Whether you have a surplus of spuds or just want to save time in the kitchen, freezing cooked potatoes can be a great way to plan ahead. However, there are a few things you need to know before you pop those taters in the freezer.
Potato Preparation
The first thing to consider when freezing cooked potatoes is how you prepare them. Potatoes that have been mashed, diced or sliced are all good candidates for freezing, but they must be cooked first. Raw potatoes will turn an unpleasant color and texture when frozen.
When boiling or steaming potatoes, cook them until they are fully tender, but not mushy as this can result in a watery texture when thawed. Drain excess liquid and let them cool to room temperature if you plan to freeze them immediately.
Freezing Methods
There are several ways to freeze cooked potatoes, but the best method depends on what you plan to use them for later.
Whole
Whole potatoes can be frozen, but the skin may become overly tough when thawed, meaning they are not the best option if you plan to use them for salad or mashed potatoes. If you have space in the freezer, freeze whole, cooked potatoes on a tray for a few hours, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Diced and Sliced
Diced or sliced potatoes work well for dishes such as soups and stews, and they can be frozen in a similar manner to whole potatoes. After cooking and cooling, spread them out on a lined tray and place them in the freezer for a few hours to prevent them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Mashed
Mashed potatoes can be frozen, but you should add some dairy and fat to prevent them from becoming watery when reheated. Consider adding cream cheese or sour cream to the potatoes before freezing. You can also add some butter and milk to the mashed potatoes when reheating, which will help to restore their creamy texture.
Thawing and Reheating
When it comes time to use your frozen cooked potatoes, it’s important to thaw and reheat them properly. If you plan to use them in a dish like soup or stew, you can add them directly to the pot while still frozen.
If you plan to eat them on their own, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees F until they are heated through. You can also reheat mashed potatoes in the microwave, but be sure to stir them frequently to avoid hot spots.
Storage Time
Like all frozen foods, cooked potatoes have a shelf life in the freezer. If they are stored correctly, they can last for up to six months in the freezer, but after that, the quality may start to degrade.
It’s a good idea to label and date your frozen potatoes so you can keep track of how long they have been in the freezer.
FAQ About Freezing Cooked Potatoes
- Can you freeze cooked potatoes with skin on? Yes, you can, but the skin may become tough when thawed.
- Can you freeze boiled potatoes? Yes, you can freeze boiled potatoes, but make sure they are fully cooked before freezing.
- Can you freeze mashed potatoes? Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes, but add some dairy and fat to prevent them from becoming watery when reheated.
- How long can you freeze cooked potatoes? Cooked potatoes can be frozen for up to six months, but quality may degrade after that.
Conclusion
Freezing cooked potatoes is a great way to plan ahead and save time in the kitchen. As long as you prepare them correctly, store them properly, and follow the correct thawing and reheating techniques, you’ll have delicious spuds ready to go whenever you need them.
References:
- The Kitchn: How To Freeze Potatoes
- BBC Good Food: How To Freeze Cooked Potatoes
- USDA: Freezing Cooked Foods