Ask Dr. Potato

With 924 posts, chances are there's already an answer to your question. Please try searching below before submitting a question to Dr. Potato. Use multiple words to help narrow down the results. For example, search for "potatoes" and "group" if looking for an answer on cooking potatoes for large groups.

Back To Dr. Potato Home

How Do You Make Thick Mashed Potatoes?

Q:

I'm not sure how this happened, but I made my mashed potatoes runny. Do you have suggestions on how to make it thick?

A:

The quickest, easiest remedy to fix watery mashed potatoes is to add some dehydrated potatoes, a few tablespoons at a time until reaching desired thickness. Another simple method is to allow the runny mashed potatoes to remain on the stove, low to medium heat; stirring occasionally until the excess moisture reduces (evaporates) and the mashed potatoes are the desired thickness. Take care to not over-stir or the potato cells will break down and the mashed potatoes will reach an undesirable, ‘gluey’ texture.

Here’s a few more details:  https://idahopotato.com/dr-potato/how-to-thicken-mashed-potatoes

Don’t forget the gravy!

All Things Mashed Potatoes HERE