14 Different Types of Potatoes and Uses

Last Updated on November 15, 2023

Do you know how many types of potatoes are in the culinary world? Are you stuck with the same old spuds and want to try something new?

The world offers us over 200 varieties of potatoes. From Russets to Red Golds, this comprehensive guide will delve into the different classifications, uses, and flavors of potato types that you can enjoy.

Are you ready for a potato revelation? Let’s dig in!

Different Types of Potatoes – Starchy Potatoes

Starchy potatoes, like Russet, are perfect for baking or frying due to their high starch content.

These popular potato varieties have a dry and fluffy texture when cooked, making them perfect for creating crispy and golden brown results.

1. Russet Potato

Russet potatoes, the most recognized variety in America, are known for being so starchy.

With their distinct brown skin and large size, they are known for their dry, fluffy texture when cooked—this makes them a good choice for baked potatoes or mashed potatoes.

Their high-starch content provides a satisfying mouth feel while delivering a mildly sweet flavor that pairs well with various toppings and additions.

If you’re planning on hosting a barbecue or creating a classic comfort dish like homemade French fries at home, consider using these potatoes to achieve that perfect crispy exterior and indulgent interior.

2. Jewel Yam

Jewel Yam has vibrant orange flesh and a slightly sweet flavor. It is often referred to as a yam, but it is actually a variety of sweet potatoes.

The Jewel Yam has a smooth texture when cooked and these potatoes can be used in various recipes, including soups, casseroles, and even desserts.

Its vibrant pale yellow skin color adds visual appeal to any dish, making it not only delicious but also aesthetically pleasing.

Whether you bake, roast, or mash, Jewel Yam is sure to bring a burst of flavor and nutrition to your meals.

3. Hannah Sweet Potatoes (Japanese Sweet Potatoes)

Hannah sweet potatoes, a.k.a. Japanese sweet potatoes are known for their high starchy content which has gained popularity in recent years.

They have reddish-purple skin, and creamy, white potatoes with starchy flesh that is incredibly sweet and moist when cooked.

These potatoes are popular for their slightly nutty flavor, making them an excellent choice for both savory and sweet dishes.

And don’t be confused by the name! Although called, “sweet potatoes” they are a part of the Russett and Yukon Gold family and do not have a very sweet taste like actual sweet potatoes.

These particular varieties can be used to make potato dishes such as roasted, boiled, mashed, or used in soups and stews.

4. German Butterball (Mehlig Kochende Potatoes)

German Butterball potatoes, also known as mehlig kochende potatoes, are a variety of potatoes that originate from Germany.

These potatoes are highly esteemed for their superior cooking qualities and unique flavor. They have lower water content and high starch content, making them perfect for mashing or frying.

When cooked, German Butterball potatoes have a fluffy and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

The skin of these potatoes is thin and light brown in color, making them ideal for dishes that require peeling.

The flavor of German Butterball potatoes is buttery and nutty, with hints of earthiness. This makes them a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. 

Waxy Potato Types

Waxy potatoes have a high moisture content, making them ideal for roasting, boiling, or steaming.

Their waxier texture also gives them a creamy and buttery flavor, making them a good choice for any dishes and snacks such as potato chips and fries.

Due to their high moisture content, these potatoes tend to have firm flesh and texture than starchy potatoes.

This allows them to maintain their shape well after cooking, even for extended periods.

5. Red Bliss Potatoes (Red Potatoes)

Red Bliss potatoes are a popular type of potato known for their small size and distinctive red skin.

They are usually round or slightly elongated, with a smooth texture and creamy white flesh. 

In terms of taste, they have a delicate and buttery flavor that pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices.

They are versatile ingredients and can be used in a wide range of recipes, from traditional potato salad to air fryer smashed potatoes.

Additionally, Red Bliss potatoes are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthy choice for meals. 

6. Warba

Warba potatoes are yellow potatoes with origins in Germany. They have light skin and yellow flesh, and their small size makes them perfect for roasting or boiling.

They are known for their creamy flavor and waxy texture, making them a favorite choice among chefs and home cooks alike.

7. Rose Finn Apple

Rose Finn Apple is a type of potato that is known for its unique appearance and delicious flavor.

These potatoes have vibrant colors and beautiful rosy skin with creamy yellow flesh. They are typically small to medium in size and have an elongated shape, resembling an apple.

What sets Rose Finn Apple potatoes apart is their buttery texture and taste.

They have a smooth texture that holds up well when cooked, making them perfect for boiling, steaming, or roasting.

Their nature also means they hold their shape nicely when sliced or diced, making them a good choice for potato salad or dishes where you want the potatoes to remain intact.

Whether you’re using Rose Finn Apple potatoes as an appetizer or incorporating them into your main course, these versatile spuds will add both visual appeal and great taste to your meals.

8. Russian Banana

Russian Banana potatoes, also know as Russian fingerling potatoes, are a unique and delicious variety that is sure to impress your taste buds.

These small, elongated potatoes have thin, delicate skin and creamy flesh. They get their name from their distinct shape, which resembles a banana.

They are waxy in texture, making them perfect for roasting or boiling as they hold their shape well.

The rich flavor pairs nicely with herbs and spices, making them a versatile choice for many different dishes.

Whether you’re looking to whip up some tasty roasted potatoes or add some pizzazz to your potato salad, Russian Bananas are an excellent choice that will leave you wanting more.

All-Purpose Potatoes

Red Gold, Purple Majesty, and Yukon Gold are versatile all-purpose potatoes that can be used in a variety of dishes.

9. Red Gold Potatoes

Red Gold potatoes are a versatile and popular variety that is loved by Americans for their vibrant red skin and creamy yellow flesh.

These all-purpose potatoes have a smooth texture, making them perfect for boiling, baking, roasting, or mashing.

Their natural buttery flavor adds richness to any dish they’re used in. These potatoes hold their shape well when cooked, which makes them ideal for potato salads or soups.

Whether you’re preparing them mashed for dinner or slicing them up for crispy oven-baked fries, they are sure to deliver the delicious taste and enjoyable eating experience that Americans crave.

10. Purple Majesty

Purple Majesty is one of the most eye-catching purple potatoes available.

With its vibrant, deep dark purple skin and flesh, it adds a pop of color to any dish. These unique potatoes have a rich flavor that intensifies when cooked.

They are perfect for mashing or roasting, as they maintain their vivid purple hue even after cooking.

Purple Majesty potatoes are also packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium.

Adding this striking potato variety to your meals not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a delicious and nutritious addition to your plate.

11. Yukon Gold Potatoes

Yukon potatoes are a popular choice for many Americans due to their delicious flavor and versatile nature. These yellow-fleshed potatoes have a creamy flavor that makes them perfect for mashing, roasting, or frying.

Whether you’re making golden crispy fries or silky smooth leek potato soup, these potatoes will always deliver excellent results.

With its thin skin and buttery taste, this variety is also known for retaining its shape when cooked, making it ideal for salads and soups.

So next time you’re planning a potato dish, consider using them to elevate your culinary creations!

Other Potato Varieties

In addition to starchy and waxy potatoes, there are other varieties of potatoes that offer unique flavors and cooking qualities. 

12. Fingerling Potatoes

Fingerling potatoes are a unique and versatile potato that is known for its small, elongated shape and finger-like appearance.

These potatoes have a creamy texture and a rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with various dishes.

Whether you choose to roast them, boil them, or use them in salads or in making chips, these potatoes add a touch of elegance to any meal.

Their thin skin makes them perfect for leaving unpeeled, adding both nutrition and color to your plate.

With their distinct taste and charming size, it’s no wonder the fingerling variety is becoming increasingly popular among home cooks and chefs alike.

13. Petite Potatoes

Petite potatoes are small in size but big in flavor. These tiny tubers come in various colors, including red, yellow, and purple.

They have a texture that holds up well during cooking, making them perfect for roasting, boiling, or steaming.

Not only delicious but also aesthetically pleasing when added to salads or used as a colorful side dish. Their size makes them easy to handle and cook quickly too.

So whether you’re looking to add a pop of color to your plate or simply enjoy their creamy texture, these potatoes are definitely worth trying out in your next culinary adventure.

14. Almond Potatoes

Almond potatoes are a unique and delicious fingerling variety that is gaining popularity among potato enthusiasts.

These petite-sized tubers have yellow flesh with a thin, skin that makes a perfect addition to any dish.

Despite their small size, almond potatoes pack a punch of flavor as they have a rich taste profile.

They are incredibly versatile in the kitchen and can be roasted, boiled, or even used in salads to add an interesting twist to your meals.

So next time you’re looking for something different to bring to your dinner table, give almond potatoes a try!

Final Words

There is a wide range of potato varieties available to us.

From the starchy russet potato and jewel yam to the waxy Warba and Rose Finn Apple, and even the all-purpose Red Gold and  Almond potatoes – each type has its own unique flavor and texture.

Whether you enjoy baking, frying, or mashing potatoes, there is a perfect variety for every culinary creation.

So next time you’re at the grocery store or farmer’s market, don’t be afraid to explore the diverse options that different kinds of potatoes have to offer!