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Can you fry canned potatoes?
While canned potatoes are a kitchen staple for many, there are some people that are not so familiar with them. If you’ve found a tin lurking at the back of your kitchen cupboard then you might be wondering what you can do with them to make them a bit more interesting.
There are lots of reasons canned potatoes (sometimes called tinned potatoes) are so popular. Being canned means they last a really long time, far longer than fresh potatoes. This makes them a perfect kitchen staple if you can’t get to the shops often.
They can also be great if you like to stock up on canned goods in case of emergency, like very heavy snow in winter.
As canned potatoes are already cooked, they a quick and easy to reheat something which can be done either on the stovetop in a small pan or in the microwave in a bowl or plastic container. This makes them perfect if you’re limited on time and don’t want to peel and cook fresh potatoes.
Scroll down to take a look at all the different ways you can fry canned potatoes, including deep frying and air frying them
How Long Do Canned Potatoes Last In The Fridge?
If you’ve opened a can of tinned potatoes but aren’t quite ready to use them all up, you might be wondering how long they last in the fridge.
Typically, once opened, canned potatoes will last for 4-5 days in the fridge if kept inside a sealed container. Personally, I like to give them a gentle rinse under cold and pat dry before placing them into the refrigerator.

Canned potatoes are also perfect for camping trips as they keep well and can be reheated on a camping stove.
Even if your canned potatoes are past their best before the end date they should still be safe to eat, as this is only an indicator of food quality, rather than food safety.
Can You Fry Canned Potatoes?
Yes, you can fry canned potatoes. The fact they are already cooked means this is really simple and easy to do and frying makes them extra delicious. This is the best way to make canned potatoes crispy.

How To Fry Canned Potatoes – In A Frying Pan On The Stove Top
Here is how to make fried canned potatoes in a frying pan – scroll down if you’d prefer to Air Fry or Deep Fry your canned potatoes.
- Open the canned potatoes and drain. Personally, I liked to give them a little bit of a rinse under the tap.
- Dry the potatoes using a clean tea towel. Gently pat off some of the excess moisture as this really helps the potatoes crisp up.
- Cut any larger potatoes in half (or all of the potatoes into slices if you prefer) and then add to a good non-stick frying pan with a TBSP of oil (this can be vegetable oil or olive oil). Season using salt and pepper. You could also add dried or fresh herbs such as rosemary or sage.
- Fry the canned potatoes over medium-high heat until they are a lovely golden brown colour. Turn often either by gently shaking the pan or using kitchen tongs.
- Serve immediately. These make a perfect addition to a cooked breakfast or a side dish for an omelette.
Fried canned potatoes are delicious with any dish, but we tend to serve them with a fry-up or as a side with an omelette.
If you want to go all out and make the fried canned potatoes extra special, you could try frying them up with some small pieces of bacon or ham and some onions. They can also be fried and then added to an omelette or frittata.
Frying canned potatoes is a great way to use them up and make them a bit more interesting in the process. Fried canned potatoes are definitely a firm favourite in our household!
Can You Fry Canned Potatoes In The Air Fryer?
Yes, you can fry canned potatoes in the Air Fryer. Air Frying canned potatoes is quick, easy and delicious.
How To Air Fry Canned Potatoes
- Drain and rinse the canned potatoes and pat dry using a tea towel or kitchen roll. I find if the potatoes are still a bit wet they tend to explode!
- Place the canned potatoes (cut in half or quarters if you prefer) into a bowl and add some cooking oil and season to taste.
- Cook in the Air Fryer for approx 10 minutes at 200°C – I like to toss/shake the basket during this time to help with even cooking. You may want to cook for a little longer for a crispier end result.
- Serve immediately.
It’s worth noting that Air Fryer settings can vary quite a bit across different appliances so the above should be taken as a very rough guide.
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Can You Deep Fry Canned Potatoes?
As well as Air Frying and pan frying canned potatoes, you can also deep fry them using a deep fat fryer. Deep frying canned potatoes is the best method for cooking large quantities and for giving the most even finish.
How To Deep Fat Fry Canned Potatoes
- Switch on your deep fat fryer and allow it to come up to a temperature of 220°C.
- . Drain and rinse the canned potatoes and pat dry using a tea towel or kitchen roll.
- Slice the potatoes if desired and carefully add them to the fryer basket. Gently lower into the hot fat and give the basket a small shake to prevent the canned potatoes from sticking together.
- Deep fry the potatoes for approximately five minutes or until golden in colour.
- Once cooked, place the potatoes onto a baking tray lined with kitchen roll to help absorb some of the fat. Season to taste and serve immediately.
Other Cooking How-To’s
How To Cook Black Pudding (5 Different Ways)
How To Blanch And Freeze Broccoli
How To Make Butter From Whipping Cream
How To Thicken Up Stew In The Slow Cooker
How To Defrost Bread Without It Getting Soggy
How To Avoid A Soggy Bottom When Baking
