There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling the kitchen—and this potato bread recipe delivers just that. Soft, fluffy, and subtly sweet, it’s the kind of bread I make when I want something nostalgic yet practical. It’s a perfect way to use leftover mashed potatoes and makes an excellent base for sandwiches, toast, or French toast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this potato bread for its irresistible texture—fluffy and tender with just the right amount of chew. The mashed potatoes give it a slight richness and help it stay fresh longer than traditional white bread. It’s also versatile enough for both sweet and savory applications. Whether I’m spreading it with cinnamon butter, toasting it for breakfast, or making a hearty sandwich, this bread always delivers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• warm water

• 2% milk

• instant or active dry yeast

• granulated sugar

• large egg

• salt

• mashed potatoes

• salted butter

• bread flour

Directions

1. I start by combining the warm water and milk in the bowl of my stand mixer, then sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for a few minutes until slightly frothy.

2. I add sugar, egg, salt, mashed potatoes, melted butter, and flour to the yeast mixture. I mix just until everything is combined and let the dough rest for five minutes.

3. Switching to the dough hook, I knead the dough for about 6-7 minutes until it’s soft and slightly sticky.

4. I transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until nearly doubled.

5. After the first rise, I divide the dough in half and shape each portion into loaves. Then I place them into greased 9×5 loaf pans.

6. While the oven preheats to 350ºF, I let the loaves rise again.

7. For a golden brown crust, I brush the tops with an egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

8. I bake the loaves uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the tops are firm and golden.

9. Once out of the oven, I cool the bread on a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 standard loaves, yielding about 20 slices total.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Rise time: 55 minutes

• Bake time: 35 minutes

• Total time: About 1 hour and 45 minutes

Variations

• Dinner rolls: I sometimes shape this dough into rolls for soft, pillowy dinner rolls.

• Whole wheat version: I replace up to 1 cup of bread flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly nutty flavor.

• Sweet version: A tablespoon of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon added to the dough makes this a delicious breakfast bread.

• Cheese twist: I mix in shredded cheddar for a savory loaf that pairs great with soups.

Storage/Reheating

I store this bread wrapped tightly in plastic or a bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I freeze slices in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

To reheat, I toast individual slices or warm the loaf in a 300ºF oven wrapped in foil for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

How do mashed potatoes affect the bread texture?

Mashed potatoes add moisture and starch, which helps create a soft and fluffy texture. I find they also help the bread stay fresher for longer.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, I’ve tried both plain mashed potatoes and ones with butter and milk. Instant mashed potatoes should work too, as long as they’re not overly seasoned.

Do I need a stand mixer to make this bread?

No. While I often use a stand mixer for ease, I’ve made this by hand just as successfully. Kneading takes about 6–8 minutes on a floured surface.

Can I halve the recipe?

Absolutely. When I only need one loaf, I cut the ingredients in half and follow the same instructions. It works perfectly.

Can this be made in a bread machine?

Yes, I’ve mixed the dough in my bread machine on the dough cycle and then baked it in the oven for the best texture and crust.

Conclusion

This homemade potato bread is one of those classic recipes I come back to again and again. It’s simple, comforting, and delicious—everything I love in a homemade loaf. Whether I’m making sandwiches or just enjoying a warm slice with butter, this bread never disappoints.