Quick Answer
Yes, you can absolutely make mashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat them later. Mashed potatoes hold up very well when made in advance, as long as you take a few steps to store and reheat them properly. The best way to make ahead mashed potatoes is to prepare them completely seasoned and finished, cool completely, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, and reheat gently in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven before serving. With a little planning, advance prep can make serving mashed potatoes quick and easy!
Storing Cooked Mashed Potatoes
When making mashed potatoes in advance, it’s important to cool them properly for safe storage. Here are some tips for storing cooked mashed potatoes:
– Allow mashed potatoes to come to room temperature before storing. Place the pot of finished mashed potatoes into an ice bath to cool quickly if needed.
– Transfer mashed potatoes to an airtight container once completely cooled. Plastic, glass, or ceramic containers with tight-fitting lids work best.
– Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Mashed potatoes will generally keep well for 3-4 days in the fridge.
– Freeze for longer storage. Mashed potatoes freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
– Avoid storing mashed potatoes too long. Don’t keep them beyond 4 days refrigerated or 3 months frozen for best flavor and texture.
Reheating Methods
When ready to serve your pre-made mashed potatoes, choose from these simple reheating methods:
Microwave
– Transfer mashed potatoes to a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely with a paper towel or vented lid.
– Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through. Watch closely to prevent overheating.
– Stir well before serving to evenly distribute any separated liquid.
Stovetop
– Place mashed potatoes in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
– Stir frequently with a wooden spoon or heat-proof spatula as they warm.
– Add a spoonful or two of milk or cream if the potatoes seem dry.
– Heat through until steaming hot, about 5 minutes.
Oven
– Transfer mashed potatoes to a lightly greased baking dish. Smooth the top evenly.
– Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until hot.
– Stir well before serving to redistribute any separated liquid.
Tips for the Best Results
Follow these tips for leftover mashed potatoes with the freshest taste and texture:
– Use Yukon Gold, Russet, or starchy potatoes. Starchy varieties hold their texture best when reheated.
– Rice the potatoes for a smoother, creamier consistency.
– Use half butter and half broth or milk when making the potatoes.
– Season well with salt, pepper, and any other flavorings.
– Add just enough hot liquid to achieve the desired creaminess without becoming soggy.
– Avoid over-mixing once liquid is added, which can make potatoes gluey.
– Let mashed potatoes cool completely before storing.
– Portion potatoes into smaller containers for quick individual reheating.
What Not to Do
Here are a few mistakes to avoid with make-ahead mashed potatoes:
– Don’t store warm or room temperature mashed potatoes. Always chill fully first.
– Don’t pack hot mashed potatoes tightly in a container. This can lead to condensation and spoilage.
– Don’t freeze mashed potatoes in large amounts. Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.
– Don’t microwave mashed potatoes too long or at too high power. This can make them rubbery.
– Don’t add more milk or cream before reheating. This can lead to a thin, curdled texture.
Serving Ideas
Leftover mashed potatoes can be incorporated into many delicious dishes. Consider these serving ideas:
– Use as a base for shepherd’s pie or cottage pie.
– Make into potato pancakes or gnocchi.
– Top with cheese, breadcrumbs, or roasted veggies for a baked potato bar.
– Mix with eggs, herbs, and vegetables for potato frittatas or pancakes.
– Fold into corn, green beans, or other veggies along with butter and broth.
– Serve topped with salsa, BBQ pulled meat or chili for twice-baked potatoes.
– Spoon into halved sweet peppers or acorn squash and bake as stuffed veggies.
– Mash with cauliflower or turnips for added nutrition and flavor.
Cooking Methods Compared
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Microwave | Fast, convenient reheating Allows good portion control |
Can make potatoes rubbery if overheated Doesn’t add back moisture |
| Stovetop | Gentle even heating Can adjust texture as needed |
Requires more active cooking time Potential to scorch if not stirred |
| Oven | Gives great overall heating Keeps plated potatoes hot |
Takes longer Can dry out potatoes |
FAQs
How long do leftover mashed potatoes last in the fridge?
Properly stored, cooked mashed potatoes will generally last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to chill potatoes completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. Look for signs of spoilage like off smells, taste, or texture before eating leftovers.
Can you freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes, mashed potatoes freeze very well for up to 3 months. Cool potatoes completely before freezing, and store in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for serving.
What’s the best way to reheat mashed potatoes?
The best reheating methods for leftover mashed potatoes are the microwave for convenience, stovetop for adjusting texture, and oven for keeping platings hot. Gently heat through while stirring to prevent overcooking.
Do mashed potatoes freeze well?
Mashed potatoes freeze excellently. Their texture holds up well in the freezer. Cool potatoes completely before freezing in airtight containers, leaving headspace to allow for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I prepare mashed potatoes in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make mashed potatoes in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Cook potatoes until tender, then mash with milk and butter right in the cooking pot. This method allows you to make mashed potatoes in advance conveniently.
Conclusion
With some simple planning, mashed potatoes can easily be made ahead and reheated with delicious results. Allow potatoes to cool fully before storing in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently using the microwave, stovetop, or oven. With a little care when storing and reheating, leftover mashed potatoes can taste just as fresh and flavorful as the original batch. Pre-made mashed potatoes are a great time-saving tool for holiday meals or busy weeknight dinners.