Mashed potatoes are a delicious side dish, but they don’t keep very well after the initial cooking. Luckily, there are several easy methods for reheating mashed potatoes to bring them back to their original creamy, fluffy texture. Follow these simple steps for reheating mashed potatoes using the oven, stove, or microwave.
Reheating Mashed Potatoes in the Oven
The oven allows you to reheat a large batch of mashed potatoes evenly.
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Transfer mashed potatoes to a casserole dish or oven-safe pan. Make sure the dish is oven-safe.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil. The foil helps retain moisture as the potatoes reheat.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
- Remove foil and continue baking for 5 more minutes to crisp top if desired.
Reheating Mashed Potatoes on the Stove
The stovetop allows you to quickly reheat smaller servings of mashed potatoes.
- Place mashed potatoes in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk or cream. The dairy helps restore creaminess.
- Warm potatoes, stirring frequently, until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
- Stir in additional milk or butter if needed to reach desired consistency.
Reheating Mashed Potatoes in the Microwave
The microwave provides a quick and easy way to reheat a single serving of leftovers.
- Transfer mashed potatoes to a microwave-safe dish.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or cream.
- Microwave on High for 2-3 minutes, pausing to stir every minute, until hot.
- Stir again before serving.
Additional Questions
What is the best way to store leftover mashed potatoes?
- Store mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- You can also freeze mashed potatoes for longer storage. Freeze in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Can you reheat mashed potatoes twice?
It’s best to only reheat cooked mashed potatoes once. Reheating twice can lead to drier, mushier texture. For best results, refrigerate or freeze leftovers in portions for multiple uses.
How do you fix dried out mashed potatoes?
If mashed potatoes become dried out after reheating, stir in a little milk, cream, broth, or sour cream until the desired creamy consistency is reached. Adding extra butter can also help improve the texture.
How do you reheat mashed potatoes without drying them out?
Adding a bit of milk or cream when reheating on the stovetop will help retain moisture. Stir frequently and add more liquid as needed. Watch closely to avoid scorching.
Can you reheat frozen mashed potatoes in the oven?
Yes, frozen mashed potatoes can be reheated in the oven. Follow the same steps above, increasing oven time to 25-30 minutes to allow the potatoes to thoroughly heat through. Stir halfway for even cooking.
Tips for Reheating
- When using the microwave, heat potatoes at 50% power for a gentle reheating.
- Stir mashed potatoes frequently when reheating to distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching on the bottom.
- If potatoes seem too thick, thin with extra milk, broth, or sour cream as needed.
- For more flavor, mix in roasted garlic, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or chopped herbs.
Recipe Ideas
Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole: Combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, sautéed onions, and ranch seasoning. Bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
Mashed Potato Pancakes: Form leftover mashed potatoes into patties. Coat both sides in flour then pan fry in oil until browned.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Waffles: Stir cheddar cheese into mashed potatoes. Cook in a waffle iron sprayed with oil until crispy outside and fluffy inside. Top with sour cream.
Here are some specific appliance recommendations for reheating mashed potatoes:
Microwave:
- Panasonic NN-SN936B – This 1250 watt microwave has an inverter technology that provides even heating for reheating mashed potatoes without hot spots. The keep warm feature will keep the potatoes at an ideal serving temperature.
- Toshiba EM131A5C-BS – With a large 1.2 cubic feet capacity, this 1100 watt microwave can accommodate a sizable portion of mashed potatoes. The sensor technology helps prevent overcooking.
Oven:
- GE JTS5000SNSS – This electric range features a true convection oven that circulates hot air for fast, even reheating. The self-cleaning mode makes cleanup easy.
- Bosch HGI8056UC – The integrated convection system in this gas range speeds up baking and reheating. The gentle close door prevents slammed doors.
Stovetop:
- All-Clad 4403 Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Bonded Dishwasher Safe PFOA-free Nonstick Fry Pan – This premium tri-ply pan conducts heat evenly for reheating mashed potatoes without scorching. The starburst finishing resists sticking.
- Anolon 82693 Advanced Bronze Hard Anodized Nonstick Covered Saucepan – The hard anodized construction heats quickly and evenly. The nonstick surface prevents scorching potatoes. The lid traps heat.
Any quality microwave, oven, or stovetop will get the job done. Look for models with convection cooking, sensor reheating, and nonstick surfaces when choosing appliances for reheating leftovers like mashed potatoes.
Reheating your mashed potatoes using one of these simple methods will restore their creaminess and flavor for an easy leftover side dish. Add herbs, spices, or a pat of butter to jazz them up if desired. Enjoy your leftover mashed potatoes again in no time!
