How much potato per person for roast potatoes?

Allow about 200g of raw peeled potato per person for roast potatoes. With peeling waste, buy approximately 230g of unpeeled potatoes per person. This gives a generous portion of 4-5 roast potato pieces per serving.

How many potatoes do I need per person for mash?

For mash, allow 200g of peeled potato per person (about 230g unpeeled). This is roughly one large or 1.5 medium potatoes per person. The weight reduces slightly during cooking but butter and milk are added back.

How much does a medium potato weigh?

A medium UK potato weighs approximately 175g. A large baking potato weighs 250-300g. Small new potatoes weigh about 40-60g each. These weights are for unpeeled potatoes.

Should I account for peeling waste?

Yes, peeling removes approximately 15% of the potato weight. This calculator automatically adds 15% to the raw weight for cooking methods that require peeling (mash, roast, chips, boiled). Baked potatoes are cooked in their skins, so no waste is added.

Which potato variety is best for each cooking method?

For roasting and chips, use floury varieties like Maris Piper or King Edward. For mash, use floury types like Desiree or King Edward. For boiling and salads, use waxy varieties like Charlotte or Jersey Royals. For baking, use large floury potatoes like Maris Piper.

BakeCalcs

Potato Portions Calculator

Calculate how many potatoes you need for mash, roast, baked, chips, or boiled by number of servings.

Number of Servings

Cooking Method

How We Calculate This

This calculator uses standard UK portion sizes for different potato cooking methods, then adds an allowance for peeling waste where applicable.

Portion Sizes (Peeled Weight)

Mash: 200g per person
Roast: 200g per person
Baked / jacket: 250g per person (1 medium-large potato)
Chips: 200g per person
Boiled / new: 175g per person

Waste Allowance

15% added for peeling waste (mash, roast, chips, boiled)
No waste for baked potatoes (cooked in skins)
Approximate count based on 175g average medium potato

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are based on standard ratios and conversions. Results may vary with specific ingredients, equipment, and conditions.