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A colander is used to hold potatoes that have been boiled.
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5 from 9 votes

How to Boil Potatoes

This foolproof method for How to Boil Potatoes is incredibly quick and easy. Serve the boiled potatoes with butter as a side dish, or transform them into fluffy mashed potatoes!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1-3 lbs. potatoes Yukon gold, red, or russet
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Prepare the Potatoes: Rinse and scrub potatoes to remove any visible dirt and debris. Peel potatoes with a vegetable peeler, if desired, or leave the skin on. Cut into large 2-inch chunks or keep them whole.
    1-3 lbs. potatoes, Pinch of salt
  • Boiling Potatoes: Add potatoes to a large pot and cover with 1 inch of water. Sprinkle in a pinch or two of salt and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and keep a rapid simmer. Cook for the following times:
    10-12 minutes for peeled, 2-inch cubes of potatoes.
    15-20 minutes for whole red or Yukon gold potatoes.
    25-30 minutes for whole russet potatoes.
    You’ll know they’re done when they pierce easily with a fork. If you have a larger potato, insert a knife to check the middle for doneness.
  • Serve with butter and a sprinkle of salt, or turn into mashed potatoes or Duchess potatoes. Enjoy!

Notes

  • To Store: Boiled potatoes can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To Freeze: Seal cooked potatoes in a freezer-safe airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 87kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 477mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 1mg