Freezing Potatoes: The Ultimate Guide

Don't throw away your extra potatoes! Freezing them is a smart and cost-effective way to save for later use. Freezing potatoes is simpler than you might think, but you do need to follow a few basic steps. Here's everything you need to know for freezing potatoes, whether they are whole, diced, mashed, French-fried, or shredded:

Is Freezing Potatoes Possible?

Yes, you can definitely freeze potatoes, especially if you have a surplus. However, it's important to note that only cooked or partially cooked potatoes should be frozen. Raw potatoes contain a lot of water, which turns into ice when frozen. When thawed, this moisture makes the potatoes soggy and grainy.

How Long Are Potatoes Good For?

It depends on how they're stored. Uncooked potatoes usually last up to two weeks at room temperature (never refrigerate raw potatoes, as it ruins their texture). Cooked potatoes will stay fresh in the fridge for about four days. On the other hand, frozen cooked potatoes can last up to a year.

Learn More: How to Store Potatoes

Guide to Freezing Potatoes

The best method for freezing potatoes depends on the type you're working with. Here's how to properly freeze whole, mashed, French fries, and shredded potatoes:

Whole or Diced Potatoes

Freezing whole or diced potatoes is straightforward, but it's important to follow a few simple steps for the best results.

1. Peel. While not mandatory, peeling is recommended as blanching works better without the skin. If you plan to mash your potatoes after thawing, it's also a good idea to cube them at this stage.
2. Blanch. Fill a pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, drop the potatoes in. Blanching time varies depending on the size of the potatoes — baby potatoes or small cubes take around three minutes, while whole russets may need up to 10 minutes. After boiling, quickly immerse the potatoes in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
3. Dry. Let the potatoes drain in a colander once they've cooled. Then, spread them out in a single layer on a kitchen towel, using paper towels to blot away any remaining moisture.
4. Flash freeze. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least four hours or overnight.
5. Freeze. Once frozen, transfer the potatoes to freezer-safe bags, labeling them with the date for easy reference.

Learn More: How to Freeze and Reheat Mashed Potatoes

French Fries or Potato Wedges

If your French fries are raw, you'll need to blanch them before freezing (see the instructions above). However, if they're already cooked, the process is much simpler.

1. Initial Freeze. Place the cooked (and cooled!) fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least four hours or overnight.
2. Final Freeze. Once frozen, transfer the fries into freezer-safe bags, labeling them with the date for easy identification.

Hash Browns

The approach to freezing hash browns depends on whether your potatoes are cooked or uncooked. If they're raw, grate the potatoes using the large side of a cheese grater before blanching. Since the potatoes are shredded, blanching will only take one or two minutes. If they're cooked, freezing hash browns is just like freezing French fries.

1. Initial Freeze. Place the cooked (and cooled!) hash browns on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least four hours or overnight.
2. Final Freeze. Once frozen, move the hash browns to freezer-safe bags, labeling them with the date for easy identification.

Mashed

Mashed potatoes tend to freeze more successfully than other types, thanks to the butter and cream that help maintain their texture. If you're planning to freeze the mashed potatoes you're about to make, now is the time to use the good stuff and not skimp on ingredients.

1. Cool. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before starting the freezing process.
2. Scoop. Portion out one cup of mashed potatoes onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Initial Freeze. Freeze for at least four hours, or up to overnight.
4. Final Freeze. Once frozen, transfer the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe bags and label with the date for easy tracking.