How Long Does Mashed Potatoes Last In Fridge? Answered

Last Updated on September 12, 2024 by Shari Mason

Mashed potatoes are a beloved dish that can be easily prepared and enjoyed in a variety of settings, from casual meals to traditional holiday gatherings such as Thanksgiving dinner. Regardless of the occasion, they are a crowd-pleasing favorite.

But how long does mashed potatoes last in the fridge?

We will explain everything you need to know about storing mashed potatoes, including tips on keeping them fresh and safe for consumption.

How Long Can Mashed Potatoes Last In The Fridge? 

Mashed potatoes last anywhere from 3-5 days in the fridge and up to two months in the freezer if stored properly. However, adding dairy products, such as butter and cream cheese, may cause it to spoil faster.

For best results and a longer storage period, store them in a fridge with a temperature below 40°F (4°C) or freeze them constantly at zero degrees Celsius.

Reheating leftover mashed potatoes after storing them in the fridge or defrosting them is also necessary before consumption.

Reheat leftovers to reduce foodborne bacteria in them and avoid food poisoning. [1]

Read:

• What To Substitute For Milk In Mashed Potatoes?
• What Does Soaking Potatoes In Salt Water Do?
• Is It Ok To Eat Slightly Undercooked Potatoes?

Will Keeping It In an Airtight Container Make It Last Longer? 

Storing potatoes in an airtight container makes them last longer. This also helps prevent the potatoes from spoiling from exposure to oxygen and other contaminants. 

Storing it in an airtight container also prevents moisture loss, which can cause the potatoes to become dry and harden over time.

It also prevents the absorption of smells from the other foods and raw products inside your refrigerator.

Read: Costco Mashed Potatoes Cooking Instructions?

Can You Store It In The Freezer?

You can freeze mashed potatoes if you plan to use them after five days, though the quality might not hold up if you freeze them for too long.

Frozen mashed potatoes in the freezer last for two months and can still be safe for consumption after thawing and reheating properly.

When freezing mashed potatoes, cool them completely and store them in freezer-safe bags or containers or even in a freezer-safe casserole dish to avoid freezer burn and achieve optimal storage.

Read: How Do Restaurants Keep Mashed Potatoes Warm?

How To Store Mashed Potatoes In The Fridge

To store mashed potatoes in the fridge, divide them first into portions. Each portion should be enough for one serving or recipe, so when the time comes, you only have to thaw the desired amount needed.

Use a wide airtight shallow container so it will cool evenly and leave no warm spots where spoilage could start.

How To Tell If It Has Gone Bad

Molds

Mashed potatoes are bad if they have visible molds. It may also be accompanied by slight discoloration, moldy patches, or any uncommon changes in appearance compared to when you store them first.

Smell

If you’re unsure that your mashed potatoes are safe just by their appearance, you can also smell them. Spoiled mashed potatoes usually smell bad or sour.

If you smell any unfamiliar and off odor on them, it’s a sign that it has gone bad and should be discarded.

Taste

Though not recommended, tasting a very small amount of your stored mashed potato can sometimes be necessary if you’re unsure just by its appearance or odor. 

“My idea of heaven is a great big baked potato and someone to share it with.”

-Oprah Winfrey, American Talk Show Host

But remember that eating bad potatoes that taste sour or off-putting may cause harm to your health. So if it has a sour taste, stop eating it, or don’t even bother to taste it. [2]

Where Can You Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes?

Mashed potato leftovers are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can easily be transformed into various dishes. 

From a savory breakfast scramble to a comforting side dish, here are some creative ways to use up your leftover mashed potatoes:

• Potato Pancakes
• Shepherd’s Pie
• Mashed Potato Croquettes
• Loaded Baked Potatoes
• Soup Thickener
• Potato Patties
• Baked Mashed Potato Fingers
• Potato Soup

FAQs 

Final Thoughts

How long mashed potatoes last greatly depends on when and how you store them, and they can last in the refrigerator for up to five days if stored properly.

It’s important to keep them in an airtight container and store them below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. To extend their storage time, you can freeze them for up to two months. Just make sure to thaw and reheat them properly.

Keeping proper storage methods on any food is essential. Otherwise, there will be an increased risk of consuming spoiled or contaminated food resulting in potential health complications.

References:

1. https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/If-I-forget-to-put-food-away-in-the-refrigerator-wont-heating-or-reheating 
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/food-poisoning/symptoms-causes/syc-20356230