Quick Answer
Yes, you can store boiled potatoes in the fridge. In fact, this is recommended to maximize their shelf life. Boiled potatoes will generally last 3-5 days when properly stored in the refrigerator.
Can You Refrigerate Cooked Potatoes?
Refrigerating cooked potatoes is perfectly safe and will extend their shelf life compared to leaving them out at room temperature. The cold temperature of the refrigerator helps slow down bacteria growth and prevents the potatoes from spoiling too quickly.
Here are some key tips for refrigerating boiled potatoes:
- Allow potatoes to cool completely before refrigerating. Putting hot potatoes in the fridge can raise the temperature and jeopardize other refrigerated foods.
- Store potatoes in an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out, absorbing fridge odors, and further inhibits bacteria growth.
- Use refrigerated potatoes within 3-5 days for best quality. Although they may last slightly longer, the texture and flavor will deteriorate over time.
As long as you follow proper storage methods, boiled potatoes can be kept refrigerated for use in future recipes and meals. The refrigerator temperature preserves them significantly better than the counter.
How Long Do Boiled Potatoes Last in the Fridge?
Boiled potatoes stored correctly in the refrigerator will generally last 3-5 days before going bad. However, there are some factors that can affect their shelf life:
- Potato type – Waxy potatoes like red potatoes hold up better in the fridge compared to starchy russet potatoes.
- Preparation – Leaving the skin on helps preserve boiled potatoes longer than peeling them.
- Cooking method – Gently boiling whole potatoes retains moisture better than aggressive boiling and mashing.
- Storage container – An airtight container prevents drying out and keeps bacteria at bay.
- Refrigerator temperature – A consistent 0-4°C prolongs freshness.
Monitor refrigerated potatoes closely for signs of spoilage like discoloration, shriveling, mold growth, and an off smell. Discard any potatoes that exhibit these characteristics.
For maximum freshness, try to eat refrigerated boiled potatoes within 3 days. Make sure to bring them to room temperature before eating for best flavor and texture.
What Happens If You Store Boiled Potatoes in The Fridge Too Long?
Keeping boiled potatoes in the refrigerator too long can lead to a number of undesirable consequences:
- Texture changes – Potatoes become increasingly mushy, dry out, and crumbly over time in the fridge.
- Flavour deterioration – The flavour dulls and potatoes develop a stale, cardboard-like taste.
- Discoloration – Oxidization causes white and yellow potato varieties to grey and brown.
- Bacteria growth – Although slowed by refrigeration, bacteria like listeria, E. coli and clostridium botulinum can still grow.
- Mold development – Fuzzy black, blue, white or green mold can start to grow on old refrigerated potatoes.
Eating potatoes that have been kept in the fridge too long can potentially cause foodborne illness, especially for those with compromised immune systems. The storage time in the refrigerator significantly impacts the eating quality as well.
For best results, boiled potatoes should only be refrigerated for 3-5 days maximum. Discard any leftovers that are older than this. When reheating old refrigerated potatoes, ensure they reach 165°F internal temperature.
How to Store Leftover Cooked Potatoes
Have some leftover boiled potatoes that you want to save for later? Here are some top food storage tips:
Cool Properly
Before refrigerating cooked potatoes, let them cool down to room temperature, about 1-2 hours. Putting hot potatoes directly into the fridge risks temperature fluctuation and potential food spoilage.
Use Airtight Containers
Store cooked potatoes in airtight glass, plastic or aluminum containers. This prevents moisture loss, contains odors, and blocks potential sources of contamination.
Minimize Air Exposure
If storing potato slices or cubes, line the storage container with a dry paper towel to soak up excess moisture. Then place potatoes in a single layer rather than stacking and allowing air pockets.
Locate Properly
Place cooked potatoes towards the back of the refrigerator, where temperatures are coldest. Avoid the door, where food is exposed to warm air each time it opens.
Label Containers
Clearly label containers with the preparation date, potato type, and any seasonings or sauces. This allows you to use within recommended time frames.
Use Within 3-5 Days
For best quality and safety, eat properly stored boiled potatoes within 3-5 days. Discard any that exhibit signs of spoilage. Reheat to 165°F before consuming.
Following these simple fridge storage guidelines will help maximize the shelf life of cooked potatoes. Just remember to enjoy them soon for ideal texture and flavor.
How to Reheat Refrigerated Boiled Potatoes
While boiled potatoes keep longer in the fridge, the texture and taste definitely start to decline after a few days. However, you can revive refrigerated spuds with proper reheating methods:
Oven Reheating
Place potatoes in a baking dish, drizzle with oil or butter, season as desired, and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave Reheating
Put potatoes in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of water, cover, and microwave in 30 second intervals until hot, about 2-3 minutes total.
Saute Reheating
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add refrigerated potato cubes and saute 5-7 minutes until crispy on the outside and warmed through.
Boiling Reheating
Add refrigerated potato chunks to gently boiling water. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until fully heated. Drain and serve, seasoning as desired.
Mashing Reheating
For mashed potatoes, combine with milk or broth in a saucepan and heat over medium-low, whisking frequently, until warmed through.
Always reheat potatoes to an internal temperature of at least 165°F. Eating cold, improperly reheated potatoes raises the risk of food poisoning.
Storing Potatoes Long Term
While refrigerating is great for short term storage, there are other preservation methods if you want to keep potatoes much longer:
Freezing
Cook potatoes, cool completely, and store in airtight bags or containers in the freezer. They’ll keep for 8-12 months.
Canning
Heat raw potatoes in jars in a water bath canner for long term pantry storage, 1-2 years when done properly.
Dehydrating
Use a dehydrator or oven to dehydrate boiled potato slices. Keep in airtight containers for up to 1 year.
Fermenting
Ferment boiled potatoes in salt brine to make sour starches that will keep for months without refrigeration.
Cellaring
Cure fresh potatoes for a couple weeks then store in a cool, dark root cellar. They will keep 2-6 months depending on the variety.
So for long term potato preservation, go beyond just refrigerating. Freezing, dehydrating, canning, fermenting, and cellaring can keep them edible for many months longer.
Common Questions about Storing Boiled Potatoes in the Fridge
Storing cooked potatoes in the refrigerator can bring up some common questions. Here are answers to some frequently asked queries:
Should you put foil over boiled potatoes in the fridge?
It’s fine to cover the container with foil or plastic wrap as an additional layer of protection, as long as the storage dish is itself airtight. The foil prevents exposure to fridge odors and minimizes air contact.
Can you freeze boiled potatoes?
Yes, it is safe to freeze cooked potatoes. Simply cool them completely first, then store in airtight freezer bags or containers. They will keep for 8-12 months in the freezer.
Should you wrap potatoes in the fridge?
It’s best to store boiled potatoes in a sealed airtight container rather than wrapping them. But you can place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
What happens if you eat bad potatoes?
Eating spoiled boiled potatoes can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fever, and headache. Moldy potatoes may lead to allergic reactions. Discard potatoes that smell, taste, or appear off.
Can boiled potatoes be reheated more than once?
It’s best to only reheat boiled potatoes once for food safety. Potatoes that have been refrigerated then reheated multiple times are more prone to bacterial growth. Reheat leftovers once before discarding.
Conclusion
Boiled potatoes can absolutely be stored in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life for several days past cooking. Allow potatoes to cool completely first before refrigerating in an airtight container. Store for 3-5 days maximum for best quality and safety. Reheat properly to 165°F before consuming chilled leftovers. With proper storage and handling, boiled potatoes keep well in the fridge.
