Out of Potato flakes, one case
Potato flakes substitute, case by case
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Fresh mashed potatoes
Same amount as the potato flakes
The best substitutes for potato flakes are fresh mashed potatoes (1:1 ratio), instant mashed potatoes (1:1 ratio), or cornstarch (1:1 ratio). Fresh mashed potatoes provide the best flavor, while instant mashed potatoes offer convenience.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- mashed potatoes
One casethe full potato flakes card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of potato flakes | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fresh mashed potatoesmashed potatoes | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Instant mashed potatoesmashed potatoes | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Cornstarchthickening | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 4 | Potato starchthickening | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 5 | All-purpose flourthickening | 2 × the amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Fresh mashed potatoes
similar taste and texture
Freshly cooked and mashed potatoes that provide the best flavor and texture, good for most applications
- Best for
- mashed potatoes, thickening, binding, stuffing, casseroles
Best flavor and texture, requires more preparation time.
Instant mashed potatoes
similar taste and texture
Dehydrated potato product that rehydrates quickly, provides similar texture and flavor to potato flakes
- Best for
- mashed potatoes, thickening, binding, stuffing, casseroles
Convenient substitute, similar texture, good flavor.
Cornstarch
neutral taste, different texture
Fine white powder made from corn kernels, excellent thickening agent with neutral flavor
- Best for
- thickening, binding, sauces, gravies, soups
Good for thickening, neutral flavor, different texture.
Potato starch
neutral taste, different texture
Fine white powder made from potatoes, similar properties to potato flakes but in different form
- Best for
- thickening, binding, sauces, gravies, soups
Similar properties, different form, good for thickening.
All-purpose flour
neutral taste, different texture
Wheat-based flour that can thicken liquids but may create cloudy appearance and different texture
- Best for
- thickening, binding, sauces, gravies, emergency substitution
Use twice as much flour as potato flakes, may create cloudy appearance.
How it behaves in this recipe
Potato flakes are dehydrated mashed potatoes that can be rehydrated quickly for convenience. They're used for making mashed potatoes, thickening, and binding. These substitutes provide similar functionality, with fresh mashed potatoes offering the best flavor and instant mashed potatoes providing convenience.
Tips for substituting potato flakes
8 tips- Fresh mashed potatoes provide the best flavor and texture for most applications
- Instant mashed potatoes offer convenience and similar results to potato flakes
- Cornstarch works well for thickening applications but has different texture
- Potato starch provides similar properties to potato flakes in different form
- All-purpose flour can work in a pinch but may create cloudy sauces
- For best results, mix substitutes with cold liquid before adding to hot liquids
- Heat mixtures to boiling point to activate thickening properties
- Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor
Notes on potato flakes
- Use a combination of fresh mashed potatoes and cornstarch for best texture and flavor
- Try using other starches like arrowroot or tapioca for different properties
- Consider using pureed vegetables like cooked carrots or squash for natural thickening
- Use different seasonings and herbs to enhance the flavor of substitutes
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for potato flakes?
Fresh mashed potatoes are the best substitute for potato flakes. They provide the best flavor and texture, though they require more preparation time than potato flakes.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of potato flakes?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes are an excellent substitute for potato flakes. They have similar texture and flavor, and they're convenient to use.
Is cornstarch a good substitute for potato flakes?
Yes, cornstarch can work as a substitute for potato flakes, especially for thickening applications. It has neutral flavor and good thickening properties.
Can I use potato starch instead of potato flakes?
Yes, potato starch can work as a substitute for potato flakes, especially for thickening. It has similar properties but is in a different form.
What's the difference between potato flakes and potato starch?
Potato flakes are dehydrated mashed potatoes that can be rehydrated, while potato starch is a fine powder used for thickening. They have different textures but similar properties.