how long do you boil potatoes for mashed pot...

For most mashed potatoes, boil the potatoes for about 15–20 minutes, and use a fork-test rather than the clock to decide when they’re done.

Quick Scoop: Exact Boil Time

• Cut potatoes into roughly 1-inch chunks, then simmer them in gently boiling, salted water for 15–20 minutes until very tender when pierced with a fork.

• Smaller chunks or waxier potatoes (like Yukon Gold or red) often cook in about 10–15 minutes; larger chunks or whole potatoes can take 20–30 minutes.

• The potatoes are ready when a fork slides in and out easily with almost no resistance; if the centers still feel firm, keep cooking a few more minutes.

Simple step-by-step

1. Peel (optional) and cut potatoes into even 1–2 inch pieces so they cook at the same speed.

2. Start them in cold, well-salted water, with the water just covering the potatoes by about an inch.

3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a steady simmer and cook 10–15 minutes, checking with a fork; most mashed-potato chunks will be perfect around 15–20 minutes.

4. Drain as soon as they’re fork-tender so they don’t overcook and turn watery or gummy once mashed.

If you remember only one rule: don’t chase an exact number on the timer—cook until the potatoes are very soft all the way through, then drain and mash right away for fluffy, smooth mashed potatoes.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.