Can You Freeze Potatoes?

Learn whether raw or cooked potatoes can be frozen, the best methods, and how to avoid texture problems.

2 min read

Quick Answer

Raw potatoes do not freeze well and turn mushy, dark, and grainy when thawed. However, cooked potatoes freeze successfully - mashed, roasted, baked, and french fries all freeze well. Blanching raw potatoes before freezing can improve results but cooked is generally better.

Key Takeaways

Raw potatoes have high water content and contain enzymes that cause discoloration and texture breakdown when frozen.
Waxy potato varieties (like red potatoes) hold up slightly better than starchy varieties (like russets) when frozen.
Potatoes in [soups](/can-you-freeze-soup) and stews can become grainy after freezing; consider adding fresh potatoes when reheating.

Explanation

Raw potatoes have high water content and contain enzymes that cause discoloration and texture breakdown when frozen. The ice crystals formed during freezing rupture cell walls, resulting in a mealy, watery texture when thawed.

Blanching raw potatoes in boiling water for 3-5 minutes before freezing deactivates the enzymes and helps preserve texture. After blanching, immediately plunge into ice water, dry thoroughly, and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to bags.

Cooked potatoes freeze much more successfully. Mashed potatoes with butter and cream freeze well for 2-3 months. Roasted potatoes, hash browns, and twice-baked potatoes all maintain good quality. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for best texture.

Things to Know

Waxy potato varieties (like red potatoes) hold up slightly better than starchy varieties (like russets) when frozen.
Potatoes in soups and stews can become grainy after freezing; consider adding fresh potatoes when reheating.
French fries are best frozen raw after blanching; fry directly from frozen for crispiest results.