No one likes chilly mashed potatoes. The murky, lumpy texture is unappealing, and the flavour suffers from refrigerator staleness.
Reheating is the only way to revive that creamy texture and buttery flavour of freshly mashed potatoes. But sometimes, you don’t have time for an oven-baked potato dish, or it’s just too hot to turn on your stovetop.
In such instances, you need a quick fix—and a microwave can do just that. It’ll take three minutes tops to reheat your spuds without drying them out or sacrificing their taste.
Here’s how to reheat mashed potatoes in microwave.
Add your desired amount of mashed potatoes into a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in 1 tablespoon of milk or cream per serving and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Nuke on medium for 60-seconds, then stir extensively. Continue microwaving at one-minute intervals until heated through, stirring after each interval.
Easy peasy! You can now enjoy warm, creamy spuds as if they were just freshly mashed.
In this post, we’ll go over each step in-depth and offer tips on making perfect spuds every time. In addition, we’ll address some critical concerns that are often overlooked when it comes to reheating mashed potatoes in the microwave.
So let’s get started.
Can You Reheat Mashed Potatoes in Microwave?
Yes, you can reheat mashed potatoes in the microwave. It’s a common misconception that you can’t reheat mashed potatoes. Although it’s possible, you’ll want to use extreme caution to avoid a soggy, watery mess. This is especially true if you’re reheating in a microwave.
Remember, potatoes are notably high in starch – amylose and amylopectin, in particular. When subjected to dry heat, these long chains of glucose break down into smaller chains, a process called dextrinization.
The result is that your mashed potatoes turn from creamy white to chocolaty brown. Although it’s ideal for making homemade gravy, it’s not for warm mashed potatoes.
And when exposed to moist heat, amylose and amylopectin don’t break down. Instead, they absorb water and swell up into gooey lumps of starch.
So how do you reheat mashed potatoes in your microwave without turning them into glue?
The key missing element is moisture.
The best way to reheat mashed potatoes is to add just enough water and cover them with plastic wrap. The moisture keeps your spuds from drying out, while the plastic wrap prevents them from absorbing too much moisture. The outcome is soft, creamy taters that taste like they just came straight out of your oven.
How Long To Reheat Mashed Potatoes in Microwave
The standard period for reheating mashed potatoes is between two and three minutes for every cup.
You don’t want to overdo it, but you also want them creamy and hot. If they’re still lukewarm, put them back in for another minute or two.
However, this time can vary depending on various factors. For example, your microwave wattage may differ from someone else’s. Powerful microwaves will undoubtedly reheat your potatoes faster than those with lower power.
The number of servings you’re reheating is also a consideration. If you’re only reheating one serving, it will take less time than if you were reheating three or four servings at once.
Keep an eye on your food as it reheats and adjust accordingly. If you’re not sure, start with 30 seconds on high or a minute on medium, and check back frequently until heated thoroughly. Add a tablespoon or two of water to prevent them from drying out, and stir every so often to ensure even heating.
Once you get used to microwaving food, it’ll be second nature.
Tips To Reheat Your Mashed Potatoes in Microwave
As previously stated, potatoes are tricky to reheat. They are, however, not impossible. Microwaves have their limitations, including the fact that they cook unevenly and can easily dry out food.
However, by following these simple guidelines, you can avoid these pitfalls and have your leftover mashed potatoes creamy in no time.
- Avoid plates or bowls not designated for microwave use when reheating your mashed potatoes. When exposed to high microwave temperatures, these materials can melt, releasing toxic chemicals into your food. Instead, opt for ceramic, glass, or containers labelled as safe for microwaves.
- Like other starchy foods, potatoes can easily dry out and become gummy when reheated in a microwave. Drizzle some water, or milk if you have it on hand, over your mashed potatoes before reheating to prevent them from drying out. It will also allow maximum heat penetration, so they don’t get soggy.
- Reheat your mashed potatoes on high for short periods, between 30 seconds and one minute, depending on the number of servings. This allows your spurts to heat quickly without drying out or burning.
- As your mashed potatoes reheat, stir them regularly, so they don’t stick to one side of the dish or plate for too long. This will ensure that all portions are heated evenly and don’t dry out or burn.
- Before serving, mashed potatoes, like the rest of the foods, should be heated to a safe temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Bacteria thrive rapidly at temperatures between 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, so ensure your mashed potatoes are extensively heated.
- Store your mashed potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate them within two hours of reheating. At room temperature, bacteria can grow rapidly, so it’s important to store leftovers properly. If properly stored, they should last for up to three days.
How to Reheat Mashed Potatoes in Microwave (Step By Step)
Although you can reheat mashed potatoes on your stove or in an oven, microwaving is often easier and faster.
Here are step-by-step instructions for reheating mashed potatoes in the microwave.
Step 1: Transfer Your Desired Mashed Potatoes into a Microwave-Safe Bowl
Simply scoop your desired amount of mashed potatoes from your serving dish into a microwave-safe bowl. If frozen, allow them to thaw first before transferring them into your container or bowl.
Step 2: Pour 1/4 Cup of Water or Milk
In a mixing bowl with mashed potatoes, pour 1/4 cup of water or milk and whisk thoroughly to blend. This will help keep your potatoes from drying out while reheating.
Step 3: Wrap the Bowl Firmly in Microwavable Plastic Wrap or Lid
You want your bowl as airtight as possible to prevent steam from escaping and keep your potatoes moist while reheating.
Step 4: Nuke for 2-3 Minutes at 50 % Power
Place your bowl of mashed potatoes into your microwave and reheat on 50% power for a minute. Check and stir, then nuke again in 60-second increments until they reach the right temperature (165 degrees F).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Use oven mitts or pot holders to remove your bowl from your microwave, then serve immediately.
Faqs On How to Reheat Mashed Potatoes in Microwave
Can you make mashed potatoes the day before and reheat them?
Yes, you can reheat precooked mashed potatoes safely in the microwave.
The essential thing is to keep them from drying out by adding a splash of water or milk and reheating them to a safe temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do mashed potatoes reheat well?
If exposed to dry heat, like that of a microwave, Mashed potatoes will become tough and rubbery.
Therefore, you’re advised to add a dip of water or milk before reheating them. This way, they’ll not dry out and instead stay creamy and smooth.
How do you reheat mashed potatoes on the stove?
Transfer mashed potatoes into a saucepan, add a splash of milk or cream and cover with a lid.
Reheat over medium heat, occasionally stirring, until thoroughly warmed. Use a food thermometer to make sure your mashed potatoes are heated through (165 degrees F). Serve immediately.
How long can you keep mashed potatoes in the fridge?
You can refrigerate your mashed potatoes for 3 to 5 days. Simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them within 2 hours of cooking.
The longer they sit out at room temperature, the more likely they will get contaminated with bacteria causing food poisoning.
How do you keep mashed potatoes warm in the oven?
Place your desired hot mashed potatoes into an oven-safe bowl. Cover with a lid or aluminium foil and place in the oven set at 250 degrees F. You want to keep them warm, not cook them further. This should keep your mashed potatoes nice and creamy for about one hour.
How do you heat up Costco mashed potatoes?
First, remove your mashed potatoes from their plastic container and place them into a microwave-safe bowl.
Next, nuke them for eight minutes on high the, remove, and stir. Return them to the microwave and nuke in 1-minute bursts until they reach a temperature of about 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
What should you not reheat in the microwave?
Avoid reheating your food in unsafe containers such as a plastic wrap, plastic bags, or Styrofoam. When heated, these materials can melt or leach into your food, posing a health risk if consumed.
Instead, use glass or ceramic dishes labelled microwave safe to store and reheat your leftovers.
Also, avoid using metal, which can cause sparks leading to fires.
Bottom Line
Although tricky to reheat, you can easily and safely microwave mashed potatoes. The key is to splash them with water or milk, so they don’t dry out.
Furthermore, it is critical to avoid reheating your mashed potatoes for too long. You want them warm, not cooked further. Don’t forget, that microwaves tend to heat your food unevenly, so you’ll need to stir your dish halfway.
The beauty of mashed potatoes is that they’re endlessly versatile. They’re great on their own or topped with gravy, cheese, bacon bits, chives, or anything else you love. Making sure you reheat them to a safe temperature allows you to enjoy them without worrying about getting sick.
