How Long to Boil Potatoes (Cubed, Whole, Baby and Sweet)
Boiled potatoes are the starting point for mashed potatoes, potato salad and countless easy sides. But undercooked potatoes are hard and chalky, while overcooked ones turn watery and fall apart. The right boiling time depends mostly on size. Here is exactly how long to boil potatoes, whether they are cubed, whole, baby, red or sweet potatoes.
Quick answer: Boil cubed potatoes (about 1 inch) for 10 to 15 minutes, small or baby potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes, and whole medium potatoes for 20 to 25 minutes after the water comes to a boil. Large whole potatoes can take 25 to 30 minutes. They are done when a fork or knife slides into the center with no resistance.
Potato Boiling Time Chart
| Potato type and cut | Boiling time | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 1-inch cubes | 10-15 minutes | Mashed potatoes, quick sides |
| 3/4-inch cubes, waxy potatoes | 10-12 minutes | Potato salad |
| Baby, small or new potatoes, whole | 15-20 minutes | Roasting after boiling, buttered potatoes |
| Red potatoes, whole (medium) | 15-20 minutes | Smashed potatoes, salads |
| Russet or Yukon Gold, whole (medium) | 20-25 minutes | Mashed potatoes, peeled after boiling |
| Large potatoes, whole | 25-30 minutes | Mashing, cutting into wedges |
| Sweet potatoes, cubed | 10-15 minutes | Mashed sweet potatoes |
| Sweet potatoes, whole | 25-35 minutes | Mashing, casseroles |
Times start once the water reaches a boil. Altitude, pot size and potato variety can all change the time a little, so always test with a fork.
How to Boil Potatoes Step by Step
- Wash and prep. Scrub the potatoes. Peel them if you like, and cut them into evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.
- Start in cold water. Put the potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Starting cold lets the outside and inside cook evenly.
- Salt the water. Add about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water to season the potatoes from the inside.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer. Heat on high until boiling, then lower to a steady simmer so the potatoes do not break apart.
- Test for doneness. Start checking a few minutes before the time is up. A fork or knife should slide in easily.
- Drain well. Pour into a colander and let the potatoes steam for a minute or two to dry off.
How Long to Boil Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes
For mashed potatoes, peel and cut russet or Yukon Gold potatoes into 1-inch cubes and boil for 15 to 20 minutes, until they are very tender and break apart easily with a fork. If you boil them whole, plan on 20 to 30 minutes depending on size. Drain well and mash while hot with warm milk and butter for the creamiest result.
How Long to Boil Potatoes for Potato Salad
Potato salad needs potatoes that are tender but still hold their shape. Use waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold, cut into 3/4-inch cubes, and boil for 10 to 12 minutes. Check often, because a minute too long can turn them mushy. Spread them on a tray to cool before mixing in dressing.
Best Potatoes for Boiling
| Type | Texture after boiling | Best uses |
|---|---|---|
| Russet | Fluffy and soft, can fall apart | Mashed potatoes |
| Yukon Gold | Creamy and buttery, holds shape well | Mashed potatoes, salads, sides |
| Red potatoes | Firm and waxy | Potato salad, smashed potatoes |
| Fingerling and baby potatoes | Firm and creamy | Whole boiled sides |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting potatoes in boiling water, which cooks the outside before the center
- Cutting pieces in different sizes
- Forgetting to salt the water
- Boiling hard instead of simmering, which breaks potatoes apart
- Leaving drained potatoes sitting in water, which makes them soggy
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know when boiled potatoes are done?
Pierce the largest piece with a fork or paring knife. If it slides in with no resistance, the potatoes are done.
Should you peel potatoes before boiling?
It depends on the recipe. Peel for smooth mashed potatoes. Leave the skins on for potato salad, smashed potatoes or extra fiber.
Can you boil potatoes ahead of time?
Yes. Boiled potatoes keep in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days in an airtight container.
How long to boil sweet potatoes?
About 10 to 15 minutes for 1-inch cubes and 25 to 35 minutes for whole medium sweet potatoes.
The Bottom Line
So, how long to boil potatoes? About 10 to 15 minutes for cubes, 15 to 20 minutes for small whole potatoes and 20 to 30 minutes for larger whole potatoes. Start in cold salted water, keep it at a simmer and test with a fork. For more easy kitchen timing guides, see how long to boil eggs and how long to boil corn on the cob.
