When it comes to side dishes (especially around the holidays), you can't go wrong with a giant bowl of classic mashed potatoes to pass around the dinner table. But when you make too much or want to get a head start on the Thanksgiving menu, you might wonder: Do mashed potatoes freeze well? They absolutely do. Freezing mashed potatoes is a great way to plan for the holidays or avoid wasting any leftovers. Read on to learn how to freeze mashed potatoes for later. You'll also find the best way to reheat frozen mashed potatoes so they are still amazingly fluffy and creamy.

When it comes to freezing mashed potatoes, any recipe will do the trick—as long as there's cream/milk and butter involved. The fat content in those creamy stir-ins is key to helping maintain the mashed potato flavor and texture you love. To freeze your favorite holiday side, place cooled mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container ($6, Target), label it with the date, and pop it in the freezer. This method will also work perfectly to freeze mashed sweet potatoes.

According to the USDA, leftover frozen mashed potatoes will be good for up to two months in the freezer.

If time permits, our Test Kitchen recommends allowing frozen mashed potatoes to thaw in the fridge for 1 to 2 days. Once thawed, you can reheat them using one of the following methods:

Related: The Best Way to Reheat Your Leftovers So Every Bite Is Fresh and Delicious

Once reheated, your frozen mashed potatoes should be just like they were freshly made. If the mashed potatoes seem a bit dry or need more flavor, add a splash of cream and a couple of tablespoons of butter to taste. You can season with extra salt and pepper or give your frozen mashed potatoes a creamy upgrade with sour cream and bacon, roasted garlic, or lemon and herbs. Get in front of the holiday rush by making some of our other delicious make-ahead recipes.