This post aims to take you through how long to boil potatoes.

Boiling potatoes is a simple yet essential kitchen skill, whether you’re preparing mashed potatoes, potato salad, or just a side dish.

Knowing how long to boil different types and sizes of potatoes can save time and ensure the perfect texture every time.

In this article, I explore the exact boiling times for various potato types and sizes and provide helpful tips for getting them just right.

Put simply, boiling potatoes typically takes 10-12 minutes for small potatoes or diced pieces, 15-20 minutes for medium-sized potatoes, and 20-25 minutes for large potatoes.

You can check for doneness by piercing them with a fork. If it slides in easily, they’re ready!

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Factors That Affect Boiling Time

Before diving into the specific times, it’s important to understand that several factors influence how long it takes to boil potatoes:

• Size: The larger the potato, the longer it takes to cook. Whole large potatoes will take more time than smaller or chopped potatoes.
• Type: Waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes cook faster than starchy potatoes like Russets.
• Potato Condition: Fresh, newly harvested potatoes tend to cook faster than older ones.
• Skin On or Off: Boiling potatoes with the skin on can slightly increase cooking time, though not by much.

How Long to Boil Different Types of Potatoes

Here is a breakdown of the boiling time of different types of potatoes:

1. Baby or New Potatoes

• Boiling Time: 10-15 minutes
• Description: These small potatoes are typically waxy and cook quickly. Ideal for potato salads or serving as a side dish with the skin on.
• Tip: Test by poking with a fork—if it goes in smoothly, they’re done.

2. Diced Potatoes (Cubed or Quartered)

• Boiling Time: 10-15 minutes
• Description: Dicing potatoes speeds up the cooking process. This method is great for making mashed potatoes or soups.
• Tip: Cut pieces evenly to ensure uniform cooking.

3. Medium-Sized Potatoes (Yukon Gold, Red Potatoes)

• Boiling Time: 15-20 minutes
• Description: Medium-sized potatoes, like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, hold their shape well and are perfect for boiling whole if you’re making mashed potatoes or sides.
• Tip: These potatoes can be boiled with the skin on for extra texture.

4. Large Potatoes (Russet, Idaho Potatoes)

• Boiling Time: 20-25 minutes
• Description: Large, starchy potatoes like Russets take the longest to cook. They’re typically used for mashed potatoes or baking.
• Tip: Pierce the potato with a fork to test doneness; it should pass through easily.

Step-by-Step Guide to Boiling Potatoes

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Depending on your dish, select the right type of potato. Waxy potatoes are better for salads because they hold their shape, while starchy potatoes make creamier mashed potatoes.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Whole: Rinse thoroughly, especially if you’re leaving the skins on.
   • Diced: Cut the potatoes into even chunks for consistent cooking.
3. Boil the Water: Fill a large pot with enough cold water to cover the potatoes by about an inch. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the potatoes.
4. Add Potatoes to Water: Once the water is boiling, carefully add the potatoes. Boiling them in cold water ensures even cooking from the inside out.
5. Set the Timer: Depending on the size and type, set the timer for 10-25 minutes.
6. Check for Doneness: Test with a fork or knife. The potatoes should be tender but not falling apart. If the utensil slides in easily, they’re ready.
7. Drain the Potatoes: Once done, drain the potatoes immediately to avoid overcooking. You can also rinse them briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process if you need them firm for salads.

How to Boil Potatoes for Specific Dishes

• Mashed Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets, and boil them until soft (20-25 minutes). Be careful not to overboil, as waterlogged potatoes can make for gluey mashed potatoes.
• Potato Salad: Waxy potatoes like new potatoes or Yukon Gold are best. Boil until just fork-tender (10-15 minutes) to retain their shape in salads.
• Soups and Stews: For diced potatoes in soups or stews, smaller cubes boil quickly in about 10-12 minutes. Be sure not to overcook, as they will continue to cook in the soup’s broth.

Tips for Perfectly Boiled Potatoes

• Start with Cold Water: Always place your potatoes in cold water and then bring it to a boil. This helps the potatoes cook evenly.
• Don’t Overboil: Keep an eye on your potatoes to avoid overcooking, which can cause them to fall apart, especially if you’re using them for salads.
• Add Salt to Water: Salt your boiling water for extra flavor. It also helps the potatoes retain their texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you boil potatoes with the skin on?
A: Yes! Boiling potatoes with the skin on adds texture to the dish and preserves nutrients. Make sure to scrub them thoroughly before cooking.

Q: How do you prevent potatoes from falling apart when boiling?
A: Use waxy or medium-starch potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, and avoid overboiling. Always test for doneness with a fork.

Q: Should I cover potatoes when boiling?
A: You can cover the pot with a lid to speed up the boiling process, but once the water starts to boil, it’s best to leave the lid slightly ajar to prevent the water from boiling over.

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Conclusion

Boiling potatoes is a fundamental kitchen task, but doing it properly ensures the best texture and flavor for your dishes.

Whether you’re making mashed potatoes, potato salad, or preparing them for a soup or stew, following these tips will guarantee perfectly boiled potatoes every time.

Remember to adjust the boiling time based on the size and type of potato, and always test for doneness with a fork or knife.