When you need to know how long to boil potatoes for a recipe, all you have to do is check here for the times needed to boil potatoes to perfection! Whether you're using russet, red, yellow, Yukon Gold, or fingerling potatoes you can count on the cooking times shared below!

Many people are under the impression that potatoes must be boiled for a very long time in order to be cooked properly. However, this is not the case. In fact, boiling potatoes for too long can actually make them less flavorful and harder to digest.
In general, small potatoes should be boiled for 10-15 minutes, medium potatoes should be boiled for 15-20 minutes, and large potatoes should be boiled for 20-25 minutes. Keep in mind that these are only guidelines and that the actual cooking time will vary depending on the type and size of potato you are using.
Read on for tips on how to tell when your potatoes are done boiling.
How Long Should I Boil Potatoes?
Depending on the size of your potatoes, they should be done boiling anywhere from 12-30 minutes. Here's a look at potato boiling times for different size potatoes:
- Small potatoes: Small potatoes that are 1-2 inches in diameter take about 12 minutes to boil. The maximum boiling time for small potatoes should be 15 minutes.
- Medium potatoes: Medium potatoes that are 2-3 inches in diameter take about 20 minutes to boil. You may boil them for 25 minutes if you want them to be extra soft.
- Large potatoes: Large potatoes that are 3 inches or more in diameter take about 30 minutes to boil. Avoid boiling them for longer than 30 minutes, or they may start to fall apart.
How To Boil Potatoes
Now that you know how long to boil potatoes, it's time to learn how to actually do it. This section will walk you through the steps needed to boil potatoes perfectly every time.
- Start by prepping your potatoes. This means giving them a good wash under cold water and then peeling them if you desire. You can also leave the skins on if you prefer. Just make sure they are clean before moving on to the next step.
- Next, cut your potatoes into even pieces. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from boiling for too long.
- Once your potatoes are prepped and cut, it's time to add them to a pot of boiling water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the potatoes.
- Allow the potatoes to boil for the amount of time specified in the section above.
- Once they are done boiling, use a colander or strainer to drain the water from the pot.
- Let the potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. You can also add butter, salt, and pepper to taste.
Tips To Make Sure Your Potatoes Are Boiled Perfectly
While boiling potatoes may seem like a simple task, there are a few things you can do to make sure they turn out perfectly every time.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use starchy potatoes for boiling: This includes varieties like Russet, Yukon Gold, and Red Bliss potatoes. Avoid using waxy potatoes like red or white potatoes, as they will not boil as well.
- Cut the potatoes into even pieces: While boiling whole potatoes will work, it is best to cut them into even pieces so they cook more evenly.
- Do not overcrowd the pot: Make sure there is enough room in the pot for the potatoes to boil properly. Overcrowding will cause them to cook unevenly.
- Boil potatoes with the skin on: This helps to retain nutrients and flavor.
- Do not overcook the potatoes: Boil the potatoes until they are tender but not mushy. Overcooked potatoes will fall apart and be mushy.
- Season the potatoes after boiling: Once the potatoes are cooked, season them with salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices as desired. Seasoned potatoes are more flavorful and enjoyable to eat.
What Type Of Potato Should I Use?
There are many different types of potatoes that you can use for boiling. While some are better than others, the type of potato you use is ultimately up to you.
Here are some of the most popular types of potatoes that can be used for boiling:
- Russet potatoes: Russet potatoes are large and starchy. They are ideal for boiling as they cook evenly and produce fluffy, light potatoes.
- Yukon Gold potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are medium-sized and have yellow flesh. They are also quite starchy and make great boiled potatoes.
- Red Bliss potatoes: Red Bliss potatoes are small and have red skin. They are not as starchy as other varieties, but they still make good boiled potatoes.
What Can I Do With Boiled Potatoes?
There are many different things that you can do with boiled potatoes. Here are some ideas:
- Mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes are a classic dish that can be made with boiled potatoes. Simply mash the cooked potatoes with some butter, milk, and salt to taste.
- Roasted potatoes: Roasted potatoes are a delicious side dish that can be made with boiled potatoes. Cut the cooked potatoes into even pieces and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then bake them in a preheated oven until they are crispy and golden brown. *I suggest par-boiling your potatoes for this type of recipe!
- Potato salad: Potato salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that can be made with boiled potatoes. Simply chop up the cooked potatoes and mix them with your favorite salad ingredients.
- Baked potatoes: Baked potatoes are a hearty and filling meal that can be made with boiled potatoes. Cut a slit into the cooked potato and stuff it with your favorite toppings. Then bake it in a preheated oven until the potato is tender.

So, How Long Should I Boil Potatoes?
The length of time you need to boil potatoes depends on the type of potato you are using and the desired results. On average, 12-30 minutes is sufficient time to boil most potatoes.
With these tips in mind, you'll be able to boil potatoes perfectly every time!
📖 Recipe

How Long To Boil Potatoes - Best Boiled Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb russet potatoes
- water Enough to cover the potatoes.
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Start by prepping your potatoes. This means giving them a good wash under cold water and then peeling them if you desire. You can also leave the skins on if you prefer. Just make sure they are clean before moving on to the next step.
- Next, cut your potatoes into even pieces. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from boiling for too long.
- Once your potatoes are prepped and cut, it's time to add them to a pot of boiling water. Add salt to the water. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the potatoes.
- Add potatoes and boil for 20 minutes.
- Once they are done boiling, use a colander or strainer to drain the water from the pot.
- Let the potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. You can also add butter, salt, and pepper to taste.
Notes
- Use starchy potatoes for boiling: This includes varieties like Russet, Yukon Gold, and Red Bliss potatoes. Avoid using waxy potatoes like red or white potatoes, as they will not boil as well.
- Cut the potatoes into even pieces: While boiling whole potatoes will work, it is best to cut them into even pieces so they cook more evenly.
- Do not overcrowd the pot: Make sure there is enough room in the pot for the potatoes to boil properly. Overcrowding will cause them to cook unevenly.
- Boil potatoes with the skin on: This helps to retain nutrients and flavor.
- Do not overcook the potatoes: Boil the potatoes until they are tender but not mushy. Overcooked potatoes will fall apart and be mushy.
- Season the potatoes after boiling: Once the potatoes are cooked, season them with salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices as desired. Seasoned potatoes are more flavorful and enjoyable to eat.
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