3 Methods for Reheating Mashed Potatoes

3 Methods for Reheating Mashed Potatoes

DOUBLE-BOILER
15-25 minutes

OVEN
20-30 minutes

MICROWAVE
2 minute increments, as needed

WHAT YOU’LL NEED…

For Double-Boiler Method:

  • Whole Milk or Cream, as needed

  • Pat of Butter

  • Double Boiler or Pot for Simmering Water + Heat-Proof Glass Bowl

For Oven Method:

  • ½ Cup Liquid of Choice, plus extra as needed:

    • Melted Butter; or

    • Whole Milk or Cream; or

    • Broth

  • Oven-safe Baking Dish

  • Dish for Lid or Aluminum Foil

For Microwave Method:

  • Microwave-Safe Bowl

  • Damp Paper Towel

  • Whole Milk, Cream, or Broth, as needed

METHOD 1: DOUBLE-BOILER

Using a double boiler allows you to reheat mashed potatoes relatively quickly without risking drying them out. If you don’t have a true double boiler, you can DIY your own by placing a heat-proof glass bowl on top of a pot filled with water. Just make sure the top edge of the bowl is wide enough to sit above the boiling water.

  • Fill pot with water and bring to a simmer.

  • Add the potatoes to the glass bowl and place the bowl over the pot of water. Make sure the water is below the bottom of the glass bowl.

  • Add an extra splash of cream or milk and a pat of butter to ensure the mashed potatoes don't dry out.

  • Stir frequently, but not vigorously, until the potatoes are heated through, 15-25 minutes. Don't over stir or the mashed potatoes can assume a gummy texture.

METHOD 2: OVEN

The oven is a good choice for reheating mashed potatoes because you have very precise control over the temperature. You also can keep the potatoes covered to retain moisture so they don’t dry out.

  • Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat to 350°F.

  • Place mashed potatoes in oven-safe dish. Stir in melted butter, milk or broth, starting with ½ cup for every 4 cups of potatoes. Your final results should be smooth, but not runny.

  • Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake for 20-30 minutes or until heated through.

  • Adjust seasoning, as needed.

METHOD 3: MICROWAVE

Although this is the least recommended method, the microwave is a quick and easy option if you’re in a pinch!

  • Scoop the mashed potatoes into a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel.

  • Heat potatoes in 2-minute increments, mixing after each iteration. Repeat the process until the potatoes are heated through and have reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

  • Add a splash of milk, cream, or broth, as needed, if the potatoes begin to dry out during the heating process.