Knowing how to freeze mashed potatoes can be super helpful for storing leftovers, making holiday meals in advance, or meal prepping. No matter the reason, freezing your potatoes for later can be incredibly convenient. This helpful guide will teach you how to store mashed potatoes in the freezer properly.
See my ultimate guide to making mashed potatoes and the best potatoes for mashed potatoes.
Mashed potatoes are an incredibly popular side dish because they are easy to make and pair well with almost anything.
There are many different reasons why you might want to freeze your mashed potatoes. I'm here to show you that it is super simple to do so.
How To Freeze Mashed Potatoes
Start with cooked and cooled mashed potatoes. If you need some recipe inspiration, check out my Instant Pot mashed potatoes, garlic red-skin mashed potatoes, or Parmesan roasted mashed potatoes recipe.
Or, if you have Yukon Gold potatoes on hand, try my yellow mashed potatoes. My bacon cream cheese mashed potatoes are a rich and satisfying recipe to freeze, too.
Freezing A Large Batch of Mashed Potatoes
If you're making an entire side dish in advance for the holidays are another get-together, freezing the whole batch of potatoes in bulk is a great option.
After your potatoes are at room temperature, place them into an airtight storage container or a freezer-safe bag. *Cool quickly by spreading in a thin layer in a dish and placing it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes.
Make sure to remove as much excess air as possible. Then, pop your mashed potatoes into the freezer.
Freezing Single Portions
If you are meal-prepping or want to stash away some leftovers, you might want to freeze individual servings.
Line a baking sheet with foil, parchment paper, or wax paper. Once your potatoes are cool, use a spoon or ice cream scoop to plop some single-serving mounds onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Keeping the sheet as flat as possible, place it in the freezer for a few hours. Then, transfer the mashed potato portions to an airtight freezer-safe container for longer storage.
Label For Maximum Freshness
Any which way that you opt to freeze your mashed potatoes, be sure to label and date the package. It's always easier to rotate through your freezer food when you know which package of your mash was frozen first.
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How Long Do Mashed Potatoes Last In The Freezer
Frozen mashed potatoes will have the best texture and quality if enjoyed within two months of freezing. Any longer, and you risk your potatoes getting freezer burn.
Thawing & Reheating Mashed Potatoes
There are various methods for reheating your frozen potatoes. Some of them don't even require you to thaw your potatoes first.
To reheat using a slow cooker or the stovetop, you can use the mashed potatoes while frozen.
If using the oven or microwave, allow your frozen mashed potatoes to thaw overnight in the fridge. *Store in a microwave-safe dish for easy reheating.
For step-by-step reheating instructions, see how to reheat mashed potatoes.
Do you freeze mashed potatoes or make them fresh every time? Let me know in the comments. I'd love to hear your tips, tricks, or favorite ways to reheat and enjoy them!
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How To Freeze Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 2-4 cups mashed potatoes (cooked and cooled)
- 1+ freezer storage bags or containers
(Note: 2x or 3x only changes the ingredient list)
Instructions
Freezing A Large Batch of Mashed Potatoes
- Let your 2-4 cups mashed potatoes cool to room temperature.
- Scoop the potatoes into an airtight freezer storage container or a 1+ freezer storage bags or containers.
- Squeeze out as much air as possible and freeze. Flatten bagged potatoes for easy stacking.
Freezing Single Portions
- Line a baking sheet with foil, parchment paper, or wax paper.
- Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to portion out individual serving-size mounds of potatoes onto the baking sheet with space between them.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for a few hours, keeping it as level as possible.
- Once solid, transfer the individual portions of mashed potatoes to a freezer bag for easy storage.
Notes
- Use frozen mashed potatoes within 2 months for the best flavor and texture.
- For step-by-step reheating instructions, see how to reheat mashed potatoes.
Angela Latimer says
These easy steps make make-ahead meals and meal prep a snap for satisfying family meals even on hectic nights. ~ Angela