Potato bread is one of the most comforting, tender types of bread you can bake at home. The addition of mashed potatoes gives the dough a soft, moist texture and subtle richness that makes it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with butter.
Best of all? It’s easy to make—even if you’re new to baking. In this article, you’ll learn a simple, reliable recipe for homemade potato bread using leftover mashed potatoes or freshly prepared ones.
1. Why Add Potatoes to Bread?
Potatoes bring multiple benefits to bread dough:
- Moisture retention: Helps the bread stay soft for days
- Tender crumb: Creates a silky, smooth interior
- Light texture: Potato starches interfere with gluten, leading to a fluffier loaf
- Mild flavor: Slightly sweet and earthy, pairs with both savory and sweet toppings
Plus, it’s a smart way to use up leftover potatoes!
2. Ingredients for Easy Potato Bread
You’ll need:
- 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour (375g)
- 1 cup mashed potatoes (230g) — plain, no butter or milk
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast (1 standard packet)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
- ¾ cup warm water or milk (175ml)
Optional:
- 1 egg (for richer dough)
- Herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor
- A sprinkle of cheese in the dough or on top
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the potatoes
Use leftover mashed potatoes (unsalted and unseasoned), or boil and mash 1 large potato until smooth. Let it cool before adding to the dough.
Step 2: Mix the dough
In a large bowl:
- Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Add mashed potatoes, water/milk, and oil.
- Mix with a spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the dough
Knead by hand or in a stand mixer for 8–10 minutes, until the dough is soft, elastic, and slightly tacky.
Tip: Add a tablespoon of flour at a time if it’s too sticky—but don’t overdo it. Moisture is key to soft bread.
Step 4: First rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Shaping and Second Rise
Once the dough has risen:
- Punch it down gently and shape it into a log.
- Place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Cover and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy and near the top of the pan.
While it rises, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Baking the Potato Bread
Bake the loaf for 30–35 minutes, or until:
- The top is golden brown
- The loaf sounds hollow when tapped
- A thermometer inserted into the center reads 190°F (88°C)
Optional: Brush the top with melted butter after baking for a soft, flavorful crust.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
6. Serving Suggestions
Potato bread is super versatile.
Try it with:
- Butter and jam for breakfast
- Grilled cheese or toasties
- Chicken or tuna salad sandwiches
- Dips like hummus, spinach dip, or artichoke spread
It also makes excellent French toast and bread pudding!
7. Storing and Freezing
To store: Wrap the cooled loaf in a towel or plastic bag and keep at room temp for 3–4 days.
To freeze: Slice the loaf, wrap in plastic, and freeze in a sealed bag. Toast straight from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
Potato bread brings together simplicity and comfort in every slice. With just a handful of ingredients and a little time, you can create a soft, golden loaf that’s perfect for any meal of the day.
It’s the kind of bread that turns a sandwich into something special—and a quiet morning into something memorable.