21+ best substitute for potato flakes for baking, thickening

Searching for a path to cut down on carbs but still enjoy your favorite potato dish? Potato flakes might be the solution you’re looking for because they will help you to make your favorite recipes without all the carbs.

But what if you don’t have potato flakes in your hand? Don’t worry! Here is some substitute for potato flakes that will work similarly to potato flakes in your recipes without altering the taste.

Whether you’re baking, frying, or mashing, these substitutes will help you make the perfect dish.

So don’t let the absence of potato flakes stop you from making your favorite recipe – try one of these substitutes today!

See At A Glance

What are potato flakes? Potato flakes use

Potato flakes are a type of instant potato product. They are made from potatoes that have been cooked and then dried and can be reconstituted by adding water.

They are a quick and convenient way to add potato flavor and texture to any dish. They can be a useful pantry staple for busy cooks.

Potato flakes use a technique called flaking, which involves passing potatoes through a series of rollers to create thin, flat pieces.

These flakes can then be dried and rehydrated for use in various recipes.

Potato flakes can be used in many different ways, including as a mashed potato substitute, in soups, stews, casseroles, and breads, or as an ingredient in various baked goods.

To use potato flakes as a mashed potato substitute, simply add water and milk (or another liquid of your choice) and stir until the desired consistency is achieved.

For soup or stew, add the potato flakes towards the end of cooking so they can soak some of the liquid and thicken the dish.

When using potato flakes in baking, it is often best to add them along with other dry ingredients, such as flour, so they can be evenly distributed throughout the batter or dough.

Potato flakes are a versatile pantry staple that can make meal prep easier and help you get dinner on the table quickly. Keep a package of potato flakes on hand so you can enjoy all the benefits they have to offer.

What are Potato flakes good for?

Potato flakes can be used for a variety of purposes, such as thickening soups or stews, making potato pancakes, or as a breading for chicken or fish. They are also commonly used in instant mashed potatoes.

Potato Flakes Alternatives as a thickener and in Recipes

1. Dried mashed potatoes – A great alternative for Potato flakes

Dried Mashed potatoes are one of the best potato flake alternatives. Most recipes will require about 1/2 cup of dry mashed potatoes for every 1 cup of fresh mashed potatoes.

Plus dried mashed potatoes are easily available in any market also you can make them at home too. You just require to apply a little more or less water to get the consistency you desire, but overall the process is quite simple. 

To substitute dried mashed potatoes for potato flakes, first measure out 1/2 cup of dried mashed potatoes. Next, in a small bowl, stir the dried mashed potatoes together with 1/4 cup of water.

Then, microwave the mixture for 30 seconds or until it is hot and bubbly. Finally, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter or margarine.

dried mashed potato is a great substitute for potato fakes

If you’re searching for a method to add more flavor to your mashed potatoes, try substituting chicken broth instead of water. 

You can also add garlic, roasted red peppers, or other herbs and spices to give your mashed potatoes a boost of flavor.

For extra creamy mashed potatoes, stir in some sour cream or cream cheese. And for cheesy mashed potatoes, simply stir in some shredded cheddar cheese.

2. Use Instant Potato in place of Potato flakes

To substitute instant potato for potato flakes, you will need to use a 1:1 ratio. Instant potato tends to be denser and may not absorb liquid as well as potato flakes.

You will also need to cook the dish for a shorter amount of time since the potatoes are already cooked. Just follow the recipe as usual, but reduce the cooking time by about half.

3. Potato Starch – ideal alternative for Potato flakes

When making a recipe that calls for thickening, you can substitute potato starch instead. This will give the dish more of a creamy texture, as well as add some extra nutrients. 

Just ensure to use the same amount of potato starch as you would potato flakes.

4. Try Xanthan gum (4:1) to replace Potato flakes

When making a dish that calls for potato flakes, you can easily substitute Xanthan gum for a 4:1 ratio of potato flakes. This will give a similar consistency and taste but fewer calories and carbohydrates.

5. Add flavorful Fresh Potato to substitute Potato flakes

If you’re searching for a method to add more freshness and flavor to your meals, consider substituting fresh potatoes for potato flakes.

Fresh potatoes have a distinctively different flavor than their processed counterparts and can really add a boost to any dish. 

Whether you’re mashing them, boiling them, or baking them, fresh potatoes are a great way to upgrade your meal. Plus, they’re filled with nutrients like fiber and vitamins that can help you stay healthy. 

So next time you’re in the mindset for something new, why not try using fresh potato instead of potato flakes? You might be amazed at how much tastier your food can be.

6. Why not try Mashed Potato to alter potato flakes

If you don’t have potato flakes on hand, you can also use cooked mashed potatoes.

Simply mash the potatoes until they are smooth, then measure out the desired amount of mashed potatoes and substitute it for the potato flakes called for in the recipe.

Substitute flour for potato flakes

7. Wheat flour (2:1) is an ideal alternative for gluten-free pancakes

I substituted wheat flour for potato flakes, and the end result was a delicious batch of pancakes!

I’m so glad I found this recipe! I’ve been searching for a method to make gluten-free pancakes, and this one is perfect. The potato flakes give the pancakes a lovely texture, and they’re nice and fluffy.

Simply add the same amount of wheat flour as you would potato flakes to your recipe. The texture will be a little distinct, but the taste should be similar.

Remember that wheat flour doesn’t absorb moisture as well as potato flakes, so you may require adding a little extra liquid to your recipe.

8. Cornstarch (2:1) is a suitable substitute for potato flakes in the bread recipe

When it comes to making bread, one of the key ingredients is potato flakes. However, if you’re out of potato flakes or simply don’t have any on hand, cornstarch is a suitable substitute. 

Just combine two parts cornstarch with one part water to create a slurry, then add it to your bread dough in place of the potato flakes.

The results will be a slightly different texture, but the flavor will be virtually identical.

9. Rice flour (2:1) is a suitable replacement for potato flakes

Rice flour is a suitable substitute for potato flakes in the recipe.

Rice flour will give the final product a slightly different texture, but it will still taste delicious. Try it and see for yourself!

Read More- 5 Best Rice flour substitutes

10. Use Tapioca flour(1:1) to substitute for potato flakes

To substitute tapioca flour for potato flakes, you must apply a 1:1 ratio. Remember that the texture of your final product may be slightly different than if you had used potato flakes.

11. I substitute potato flour for potato flakes (1:1)

The best way to substitute potato flour for potato flakes is to use a food processor or blender.

Simply blend the potato flakes until they are a fine powder. You can also utilize a coffee grinder if you don’t have either of these appliances.

One cup of potato flakes will generally yield about one-third cup of potato flour.

When substituting potato flour for potato flakes, remember that the flour is denser than the flakes. This means that you will need to use less flour than you would if you were using potato flakes.

As a general rule, use about two-thirds of the amount of flour called for in the recipe. For example, if a recipe demands one cup of potato flakes, you would only need to use about a two-thirds cup of potato flour.

12. Arrowroot powder(1:1), A decent replacement for potato flakes

To substitute arrowroot powder for potato flakes, simply use the same amount of arrowroot powder as you would potato flakes.

For instance, if a recipe demands 1 cup of potato flakes, you would use 1 cup of arrowroot powder.

Arrowroot powder can be found in most health food stores or online.

13. Use Quinoa flour to substitute potato flakes

Quinoa flour can be applied in many recipes that call for potato flakes, including as a coating for fried foods or in casseroles and stews. 

Use about two-thirds as much quinoa flour as you would potato flakes.

So, if a recipe demands one cup of potato flakes, you would use about two-thirds of a cup of quinoa flour.

When substituting quinoa flour for potato flakes, keep in mind that quinoa flour will absorb more liquid than potato flakes, so you may need to add more liquid to your recipe.

Additionally, quinoa flour will add a slightly nutty flavor to your dish.

14. Oat Flour- Great substitute for potato flour in gluten-free baking

Oat flour is an excellent substitute for potato flour in gluten-free baking.

It can also be used as a thickener for sauces and gravies. Oat flour is rich in fiber and protein and has a nutty flavor that goes well with baked goods.

15. Try gluten-free alternative Almond Flour for potato flakes

If you are searching for a gluten-free alternative, you can substitute almond flour for potato flakes. This will give your baked goods a slightly nutty flavor.

You can also use coconut flour, which is also gluten-free. Just use half as much coconut flour as almond flour because it is more absorbent.

Potato flakes Substitute for dredging something to frying

1. Try Panko as a Healthier substitute for potato flakes 

Panko can be used as a substitute for potato flakes when dredging something for frying. This gives the food a crispy texture and helps to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Panko is also less likely to absorb excess grease, making it a healthier option overall. When substituting panko for potato flakes, be sure to use a 1:1 ratio.

2. Crumbs gives a similar taste to potato flakes

If you’re looking for a healthier way to dredge something for frying, you can substitute crumbs for potato flakes.

This will still give you the crunchy texture that you’re looking for without all of the fat and calories.

Plus, it’s a great method to use up any leftover bread crumbs that you might have.

Simply coat whatever you’re frying in a bit of flour, then dip it in the crumbs. Shake off any excess and fry as usual. You’ll be amazed at how similar the results are to using potato flakes.

Give it a try next time you search for a healthier way to fry something up.

3. Substitute bread crumbs for potato flakes to add a crunchy texture

When baking, substitute bread crumbs for potato flakes to add a crunchy texture. This is especially good in recipes that demand a crispy topping, like casseroles.

The bread crumbs will also help to absorb excess moisture from the potatoes, preventing your dish from becoming waterlogged.

Dredging something to frying means covering it in a breading or coating mixture before cooking.

substitute bread crumbs for potato flakes to add a crunchy texture

Potato flakes are a common choice for a breading or coating mixture because they are affordable and easy to store.

4. Masa – A great gluten-free alternative for potato flakes

If you want to make a gluten-free version of this recipe, I recommend substituting masa for potato flakes.

Potato flakes will give the dish a more fluffy texture and help thicken the sauce.

5. You can try grain flour to replace potato flakes

Rye flour is also a good substitute for potato flakes. You can also experiment with other types of flour, like coconut flour.

When making a substitution for potato flakes, you will want to use a 1:1 ratio. This indicates that if the recipe demands 1 cup of potato flakes, you will use 1 cup of grain flour.

Just ensure to modify the quantity of liquid in the recipe accordingly. For example, if you are using drier flour like almond flour, you may need to add an extra tablespoon or two of liquid.

6. Nut flour – a gluten-free, grain-free flour alternative for potato flakes

If you’re looking for a gluten-free, grain-free flour alternative, try using nut flour. You can make your own by grinding nuts in a food processor, or you can purchase it already ground.

Nut flour is a great choice for baking and works well as a substitute for potato flakes. 

When substituting nut flour for potato flakes, use a 1:1 ratio. So if the recipe demands 1 cup of potato flakes, use 1 cup of nut flour instead.

Keep in mind that nut flours tend to be denser than grain-based flours, so you may require to adjust the quantity of liquid used in the recipe accordingly.

How to make potato flakes (Homemade Potato Flakes Alternative)

If you want to prepare your own potato flakes at home, it’s easy to do with just some ingredients and a little time.

Ingredients:

  • 3 large potatoes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Firstly, warm the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

2. Peel and slice the potatoes thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.

3. In a big bowl, toss the potato slices with salt, pepper, and oil until evenly coated.

4. Lay the potato in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Enjoy!

Substitute for potato flakes in baking

  • · Mashed potatoes
  • · Instant mashed potato flakes
  • · Baked potato
  • · Sweet potato
  • · Yam
  • · Plantain
  • · Boniato
  • · Dioscorea alata
  • · Hen’s egg
  • · Quinoa flakes
  • · Buckwheat flakes
  • · Rice flour
  • · Potato starch
  • · Tapioca flour
  • · Arrowroot powder
  • · Cornstarch
  • · Psyllium husk powder
  • · Guar gum
  • · Sunflower seeds
  • · pumpkin seeds
  • · Applesauce

potato flakes vs potato starch

When it comes to potato flakes vs potato starch, there is a big difference.

Potato starch is made from the whole potato, while potato flakes are made from just the skin of the potato. This means that potato starch contains more nutrients and fiber than potato flakes.

Additionally, potato starch has a higher protein content than potato flakes. Finally, potato starch is more easily digested than potato flakes. 

Therefore, if you’re searching for a more nutritious option, choose potato starch over potato flakes.

Best potato flakes recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and next diced
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Flame the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. In a large pot, boil potatoes in water until tender. Drain and mash with a potato masher or an electric mixer.

3. Mix in milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheddar cheese until well blended.

4. Pour into the prepared dish. Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly.

This recipe is perfect for a side dish or a main course. The potatoes are creamy and cheesy, with just the right amount of flavor.

You can modify the seasonings to taste and add any other ingredients you like. 

Try adding some chopped green onions or bacon bits for extra flavor. If you like a lighter dish, you can use skim milk instead of whole milk.

Either way, this dish is sure to be a hit!

FAQs related to substitutes for potato flakes

Q1. Are potato flakes real potatoes?

Some people may think that potato flakes are not real potatoes, but they actually are! Potato flakes are made from whole potatoes that have been peeled, cooked, and then dried.

Once they are dried, the potatoes are ground up into a fine powder. This powder is what is applied to make potato flakes.

So, yes, potato flakes are made from real potatoes, and they are a great way to add potato goodness to your food!

Q2. Are dried potato flakes healthy?

Yes, Dried potato flakes can be a healthy addition to your diet. They’re an excellent origin of dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamin C.

Additionally, they’re low in calories and fat. Adding dried potato flakes to your diet can help you meet your nutritional needs while also enjoy in delicious foods.

Q3. Are potato flakes the same as mashed potatoes?

No, potato flakes are not the same as mashed potatoes. Mashed potatoes are prepared from boiled potatoes that are mashed with a potato masher or an immersion blender.

Potato flakes, on the other hand, are made from dried, shredded potatoes that have been reconstituted with water that has been ground into a powder.

When water is added to the powder, it rehydrates into mashed potatoes.

While both mashed potatoes and potato flakes can be used to make potato dishes, they will have different textures and flavors.
So, while you can technically use potato flakes as a substitute for mashed potatoes, they will not taste exactly the same.

The texture will be distinct, and the flavor will be blander. If you’re looking for a true mashed potato substitute, try using cauliflower or another type of pureed vegetable.

Q4. Why use potato flakes in bread? 

There’re a few reasons why you might want to use potato flakes in your bread. One reason is that they can help to add moisture to the bread, making it more soft and fluffy.

Additionally, potato flakes can also add a bit of flavor and nutrition to your bread.

Finally, using potato flakes can also make your bread rise slightly more than if you didn’t use them. Ultimately, whether or not you use potato flakes in your bread is up to you and what you’re searching for in terms of texture and flavor.

In addition to bread and pastry, potato flakes can also be used in soups and stews. They add thickness and body to these dishes and can help to absorb flavors from the other ingredients. 

Potato flakes can also be applied as a garnish or as a crunchy topping for salads or casseroles.

Potato flakes are also used in some pastry recipes, as they can help to create a flakier texture. When used in this way, potato flakes are often combined with other ingredients such as flour or butter.

Q5. How many potato flakes equals one potato? 

In General, it takes about 1/3 cup of potato flakes to equal one medium-sized potato. So if you want to make mashed potatoes and have one large potato, you would need approximately 1 cup of potato flakes.

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