I’m hosting a big party this coming weekend and as much as I love cooking, I think I might not be able to finish all of it in one day. I don’t want to order out so I’m planning on cooking some of the dishes in advance and freezing them. I’ll be making a big batch of mashed potatoes for the sides. Can you freeze them and what is the best way to go about it?
Cooking in big batches can truly be a challenge but it is possible. Doing it in advance is a smart move as it saves you time, and when done right, saves you money as well. Making mashed potatoes ahead of time and freezing them is no exception.
Freezing mashed potatoes is possible by following these simple steps. In fact, freezing them can make it last for 10 to 12 months. The secret ingredient to making sure it freezes and reheats properly? Butter, milk or cream!
Can You Freeze Mashed Potatoes?
It starts with choosing the perfect potatoes to use for mashing. The starchy kind of potatoes like Russets is perfect for mashing because its texture is light and fluffy.
The kind of ingredients you mix it with will also affect its freezing success rate. A generous portion of butter and full fat milk will make it perfect for freezing.
Without the dairy, mashed potatoes won’t freeze as nicely as say – cooking them with broth. Besides, butter and milk will make it taste extra creamy and flavorful after you thaw and heat it up.
The longer you freeze mashed potatoes, the more likely that you will lose its flavor. However, this can be remedied once you thaw and reheat it.
Thawing frozen mashed potatoes may take a while, so it is best to transfer it to the refrigerator a day before using it. You can also just put it in a pot over low to medium heat and stir until you reach your desired texture. Season as you go to make it taste as good as new. You may also use a microwave or a slow cooker. Just make sure you monitor its progress.
You will know if the mashed potatoes are no longer good once they start to smell bad. To be safe, throw out any leftover mashed potatoes if it has been in room temperature for more than two hours.
How to Freeze Mashed Potatoes?
So yes, freezing mashed potatoes can be done. Here are a few easy steps and tips to follow and remember.
- Cook your mashed potatoes and remember to add butter and milk or cream. These are the secret ingredients to making sure it freezes and reheats properly.
- After making your mashed potatoes, let it rest and wait for it to be completely cooled.
- If you want to serve them individually later on, scoop up 1 cup portions of the mashed potatoes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Put it in the freezer until frozen. After that, place individual portions in a big freezer bag and place them back in the freezer.
- You may also opt to directly put the mashed potatoes in a Ziploc. Flatten them for easy storage and thaw. Then, get as much air out before sealing.
- Remember to label them with the portions and the date of freezing for easy monitoring.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. But what do you do when you have extra mashed potatoes? Here are five delicious ways to use up your leftover mashed potatoes:
- Make shepherd’s pie – Shepherd’s pie is a traditional English dish that is typically made with ground beef and vegetables. To make shepherd’s pie with mashed potatoes, simply add your cooked ground beef and vegetables to a baking dish and top with mashed potatoes. Bake in a preheated oven until the potatoes are golden brown and bubbly.
- Make potato pancakes – Another great way to use up mashed potatoes is to make potato pancakes. Just add in some egg, flour, and seasonings to your mashed potatoes and mix until combined. Then, drop by spoonfuls into a hot frying pan and cook until golden brown on both sides. Serve with sour cream or applesauce for a delicious treat.
- Use them as a pizza topping – Mashed potatoes can also be used as a delicious pizza topping. Just spread them over your favorite pizza dough and top with your favorite toppings. Bake in a preheated oven until the crust is golden brown and the potatoes are bubbly.
- Make twice-baked potatoes – Twice-baked potatoes are a classic side dish that is sure to please. To make them, simply bake your potatoes until they are tender. Then, scoop out the insides and mix with butter, cheese, and your favorite seasonings. Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Make potato soup – Potato soup is another great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Just add your mashed potatoes to a pot of chicken or beef broth and mix until combined. Then, add in your favorite vegetables and seasonings and cook until the vegetables are tender. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and enjoy!
So there you have it – five delicious ways to use up your leftover mashed potatoes. So the next time you find yourself with extra potatoes, try one of these recipes and enjoy!
Mashed Potato Recipes
Now you’re ready to make your mashed potatoes. For starters, go with the classic creamy mashed potatoes, you can never go wrong with it.
Go fancy and pair your creamy mashed potatoes with pan seared steak. Impress your other half or your guests with this delicious classic pair. Have a glass of red wine while you’re at it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5GK233EwbA
If you want to skip the meat, you can also try salmon over cream cheese mashed potatoes. Just the perfect blend of light flavors!
Wrap Up
Freezing mashed potatoes is a smart idea for those hosting parties or anyone who wants to cook in batches. We hope this post has helped you learn how it can be done and the best way of doing so. If you have any questions, please let us know! Our team would love to help make your next event run smoothly with delicious side dishes that are made ahead of time.
Wrap Up
Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes. Frozen mashed potatoes will last for 6-8 months in the freezer if properly sealed and stored away from light and humidity. Here is how to do it: make sure you cook and cool down your mashed potatoes before putting them in the freezer, make sure there are no lumps inside, put them in an airtight bag or container, seal tightly to avoid freezer burn, date the bags clearly with a marker, and store in a cold place or freezer.
Let us know your experience with freezing mashed potatoes in the comment section below!