Quick answer
Mashed potatoes that have been properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator should be safe to eat for 3 to 5 days after they are cooked. However, they may start to dry out or develop an unpleasant taste around day 5. It’s important to closely check the potatoes for any signs of spoilage before eating them if they are approaching the 5 day mark.
Looking at the components of mashed potatoes
Mashed potatoes are made up of simple ingredients like potatoes, milk, butter, and seasonings. Let’s look at how each component impacts shelf life:
Potatoes
The potatoes themselves can generally last 5-7 days when kept refrigerated. The starch in potatoes resists bacterial growth. However, over time, the quality and texture of the potatoes will decline.
Milk
The milk in mashed potatoes can go bad faster than the potatoes themselves. Milk will only last 3-5 days past its printed expiration date when refrigerated. Curdling or sour milk is a sign it has spoiled.
Butter
Butter can last up to 1-2 weeks past its printed date if kept chilled. Rancid odor or taste means it has spoiled. Butter helps prevent mashed potatoes from drying out.
Seasonings
Salt, pepper, garlic powder and other seasonings do not improve or reduce the shelf life of mashed potatoes. However, they can mask signs of spoilage in taste and smell.
Proper storage extends shelf life
To get the maximum shelf life out of cooked mashed potatoes:
- Let them cool completely before storing.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Put the container on a shelf rather than in the door where the temperature fluctuates.
- If storing for more than 3 days, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the mashed potatoes before putting the lid on to prevent them from drying out.
Improper storage, such as too warm of a temperature or leaving the container open, can shorten the shelf life.
Signs mashed potatoes have gone bad
Check mashed potatoes for the following signs of spoilage before eating them past the 3 day mark:
- Mold – Mold spots or fuzzy growth means they should be discarded.
- Curdled look – Separation of the milk and solids; the potatoes will look curdled.
- Sour smell – An unpleasant sour or rancid odor.
- Off taste – An unusual bitter flavor.
- Dry texture – Dried out, crumbly potatoes.
If you detect any of these signs, it is best to throw the mashed potatoes out. Do not taste them.
The freezer extends shelf life even longer
Putting prepared mashed potatoes in the freezer is the best way to extend their shelf life. They can typically last 2-3 months in the freezer before quality declines.
To freeze:
- Allow to cool fully, then place in air-tight containers or freezer bags.
- Lay flat in a single layer to freeze solid, then stack.
- Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Properly frozen mashed potatoes will keep much longer than refrigerated, but their texture may become slightly less creamy after thawing and reheating.
How to tell if frozen mashed potatoes are still good
Check frozen mashed potatoes for these signs of spoilage:
- Ice crystals or spots – Indicates they have been thawed and refrozen.
- Dull color – Should be bright white.
- Off odor – Should not smell unpleasant or rancid.
- Soft texture – Should feel firm and frozen solid.
Discard frozen mashed potatoes that display any of these qualities. Do not taste them.
Frequently asked questions
Can you reheat mashed potatoes after 5 days?
Mashed potatoes that have been properly stored for up to 5 days can be safely reheated. However, the quality may decline after reheating older cooked potatoes. Check carefully for signs of spoilage before eating reheated mashed potatoes that are more than 3 days old.
Do mashed potatoes freeze well?
Yes, mashed potatoes freeze very well for 2-3 months when properly stored in airtight containers and prevented from freezer burn. Their texture may become slightly less light and fluffy after thawing, but they will be very edible.
Can you freeze already made mashed potatoes?
Absolutely. Prepared mashed potatoes can go straight into the freezer once fully cooled. Allow them to freeze completely solid before stacking or double bagging for long term storage. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How long do mashed potatoes last in the fridge?
Properly stored mashed potatoes will last 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to place them in an airtight container in the fridge as soon as they have cooled. Check for signs of spoilage before eating refrigerated mashed potatoes after day 3.
Do potatoes go bad if left out?
Yes, potatoes will spoil if left out too long at room temperature. Cooked potatoes should not be left out for more than 2 hours. After that, the risk of bacterial growth increases. For best quality, cooked potatoes should be refrigerated promptly.
Summary
Cooked mashed potatoes will keep for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to store them properly in an airtight container. Check carefully for signs of spoilage before eating them if they are approaching day 5. For maximum shelf life, freeze mashed potatoes for 2-3 months. Discard potatoes with any mold, odd smells or textures. With proper storage and handling, cooked mashed potatoes can be safely enjoyed for up to a week after preparing them.