How long do mashed potatoes keep?
Mashed potatoes are a popular and versatile side dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. However, it’s not uncommon to end up with more mashed potatoes than you can eat in one sitting. The good news is that you can save the leftovers for later. In this article, we will look at the shelf life of mashed potatoes, how to store them properly, signs of spoilage, and what to do with leftover mashed potatoes.
How long do mashed potatoes keep in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, mashed potatoes will keep for 2-5 days. For the best flavor and texture of leftover potatoes, it is recommended that they be reheated and consumed as soon as possible. If you added milk or cream to your mashed potatoes, it is important to check the expiration dates on these dairy products as well. If the dairy product is good for only 3 days, the mashed potatoes should be consumed within the same time frame. It is advisable not to add butter or milk to mashed potatoes if you want to extend their shelf life, as these ingredients can speed up the spoilage process, especially when reheated.
What is the best way to store mashed potatoes?
The best way to store leftover mashed potatoes is in the refrigerator. Here are the steps to properly store mashed potatoes to preserve their flavor and texture:
- Allow mashed potatoes to cool completely.
- Choose an airtight container that is appropriate for the amount of mashed potatoes you are storing. This will minimize air contact with the mashed potatoes.
- Pour the mashed potatoes into the container and cover with the lid. This step is critical to prevent the mash from absorbing odors from the refrigerator and drying out.
- It is recommended to store potato leftovers separately from other leftovers to avoid mixing flavors.
- Avoid reheating mashed potatoes mixed with meat or other foods, as the mash may spoil more quickly than if stored separately.
How long can mashed potatoes be stored?
Freshly made or reheated mashed potatoes should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After the two-hour mark, there is a high chance of bacteria developing in the mashed potatoes. This is especially important if the mashed potatoes contain milk or other dairy products, as dairy products are highly perishable and can promote bacterial growth if left at room temperature for too long. In hot weather, mashed potatoes made with dairy products can spoil even faster, resulting in a sour taste.
How can you make mashed potatoes last longer?
The only way to make mashed potatoes last longer is to store them in the freezer. If you have made a large batch of mashed potatoes and know that you won’t be able to eat them in the next few days, freeze some of them as soon as they are cold. It is not recommended to store the potatoes in the refrigerator for a few days before transferring them to the freezer.
How long will mashed potatoes last in the freezer?
When properly stored in the freezer, mashed potatoes can last up to 1 year. However, it is important to note that the flavor and texture of frozen mashed potatoes will gradually deteriorate over time. Therefore, it is recommended that frozen mashed potatoes be consumed as soon as possible for the best flavor and quality.
How to store mashed potatoes in the freezer
To effectively store mashed potatoes in the freezer, follow these steps:
- Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the mashed potatoes into portions and place on the parchment paper.
- Freeze the mashed potatoes by placing them in the freezer for about 15 minutes.
- After freezing, transfer the mashed potatoes to airtight containers or zip-top bags.
- Freezing mashed potatoes in small portions makes the thawing process easier and reduces food waste when you only need to thaw a small amount of mashed potatoes.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and place them in the freezer.
How long do instant mashed potatoes keep?
Instant mashed potatoes, which are dehydrated cooked potato mash, typically have a shelf life of 12-18 months. It is important to keep the potato flakes in a dry and cool place to maximize their shelf life. Once opened, instant mashed potatoes will keep for up to 12 months if stored properly. If the original packaging is not airtight, it is recommended to transfer the flakes into a zip-top bag after opening. It is always a good idea to check the “use by” date on the box for the manufacturer’s estimate of the quality and freshness of the potato flakes.
What to do with leftover mashed potatoes?
If you find yourself with leftover mashed potatoes, there are several creative ways to use them:
- Mashed potato cakes: Shape the mashed potatoes into cakes, coat them in breadcrumbs, and fry them in a pan until golden brown. These crispy potato cakes make a delicious side dish or a base for toppings like sour cream or smoked salmon.
- Shepherd’s Pie: Use leftover mashed potatoes as a topping for a classic shepherd’s pie. Simply layer the mashed potatoes over a savory meat and vegetable filling, then bake until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Potato Soup: Mix mashed potatoes with a little broth and seasonings to make a creamy potato soup. You can add vegetables, bacon, or cheese for extra flavor.
- Potato Croquettes: Mix mashed potatoes with grated cheese, herbs and spices. Shape the mixture into small balls or cylinders, coat in breadcrumbs and fry until crispy. These croquettes make a delicious appetizer or snack.
- Potato Pancakes: Combine mashed potatoes with flour, eggs and seasonings to make potato pancakes. Fry until golden and serve with sour cream or applesauce.
- Potato Bread: Incorporate mashed potatoes into your bread dough for a softer texture and added moisture. Find recipes specifically for potato bread or experiment by substituting mashed potatoes for some of the flour in your favorite bread recipe.
- Mashed potato pizza: Use mashed potatoes as a unique pizza topping. Spread a thin layer of mashed potatoes on the pizza dough, then top with your favorite toppings, such as cheese, bacon and green onions. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Potato dumplings: Combine mashed potatoes with flour, eggs, and seasonings to make potato dumplings. Boil the dumplings until they float to the top, then serve with gravy or a creamy sauce.
- Potato Frittata: Mix mashed potatoes with beaten eggs, cheese, and vegetables to make a savory frittata. Cook in a skillet until set, then finish under the broiler until golden and puffy.
- Potato salad: Use mashed potatoes as the base for a creamy potato salad. Toss with mayonnaise, mustard, pickles and herbs for a delicious side dish.
These are just a few ideas to inspire you to get creative with your leftover mashed potatoes. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and enjoy the versatility of this popular side dish.
Finally, mashed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-5 days and in the freezer for up to 1 year. Proper storage techniques, such as using airtight containers and avoiding the addition of butter or milk, can help maintain the quality and freshness of mashed potatoes. In addition, there are many ways to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes, allowing you to enjoy this delicious side dish in new and exciting ways. So the next time you have leftover mashed potatoes, don’t let them go to waste – get creative and enjoy every bite.
FAQS
How long will mashed potatoes keep in the refrigerator?
Mashed potatoes will keep in the refrigerator for 2-5 days.
Can I store mashed potatoes at room temperature?
Freshly made or reheated mashed potatoes should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes to extend their shelf life. Properly stored, mashed potatoes can remain safe to eat for up to 1 year in the freezer.
How do I store frozen mashed potatoes?
To store mashed potatoes in the freezer, allow them to cool completely, divide into portions, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to airtight containers or zip-top bags.
What can I do with leftover mashed potatoes?
Leftover mashed potatoes can be turned into a variety of dishes, including potato cakes, shepherd’s pie, potato soup, potato croquettes, potato pancakes, and more. Get creative and experiment with different recipes to enjoy your leftover mashed potatoes in new and delicious ways.
How long do instant mashed potatoes keep?
Instant mashed potatoes typically have a shelf life of 12-18 months when stored in a dry, cool place. Once opened, they will keep for up to 12 months if stored properly.