Top Rated Potato Ricers for Fluffy Mashed Potatoes
The OXO Good Grips Potato Ricer is our top pick for most home cooks. It offers a comfortable grip, sturdy construction, and produces consistently fluffy results. Its main limitation is that it can be difficult to clean due to the many holes in the basket.
A potato ricer is a simple tool that transforms boiled potatoes into light, fluffy mash with no lumps. It works by pressing food through small holes, creating rice like pieces that are perfect for absorbing butter and cream.
Choosing the right ricer can be tricky. Some are flimsy, others are hard to squeeze, and cleaning can be a chore. We compared seven top rated models to help you find one that is durable, comfortable, and easy to clean.
How to choose
What we recommend
OXO Good Grips Potato Ricer
The OXO Good Grips Potato Ricer features a soft, non slip handle and a sturdy stainless steel basket. It produces smooth, fluffy results with minimal effort. The large capacity handles up to 1.5 pounds of potatoes at once. Owners report that it is easy to use and produces consistent texture.
Pros
- Comfortable non slip handle
- Sturdy construction
- Produces fluffy, smooth mash
Cons
- Basket holes can clog with skins
- Not ideal for very small quantities
Zyliss Easy Press Potato Ricer
The Zyliss Easy Press uses a unique double lever mechanism that multiplies force, making it easier to press potatoes. It has a large capacity and comes with three interchangeable discs for different textures. Users with hand weakness appreciate the reduced effort required.
Pros
- Requires less force
- Interchangeable discs for versatility
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Plastic parts may not be as durable
- Slightly more complex to clean
Kitchenaid Gourmet Potato Ricer
The KitchenAid Gourmet Potato Ricer is built with a heavy duty stainless steel construction and a comfortable handle. It has a large hopper that holds up to 1.5 pounds of potatoes. The basket is fine enough for smooth mash, and the whole unit is dishwasher safe.
Pros
- Very sturdy
- Large capacity
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Heavier than others
- Handle may feel wide for small hands
Tramontina Stainless Steel Potato Ricer
The Tramontina potato ricer offers solid performance at a lower price. It features a stainless steel basket and a simple lever design. It produces good results, though it may require more effort than higher end models. Many owners say it is a reliable tool for occasional use.
Pros
- Affordable
- Stainless steel basket
- Compact size for storage
Cons
- Not as comfortable to squeeze
- Smaller capacity
Norpro Potato Ricer
The Norpro Potato Ricer has an extra large basket that can hold up to 2 pounds of potatoes. It is made of stainless steel and features a long handle for leverage. It is ideal for families or meal prep, but the larger size makes it harder to store.
Pros
- Very large capacity
- Sturdy build
- Good for big meals
Cons
- Bulky storage
- Requires more strength to press
Westmark Classic Potato Ricer
The Westmark Classic Potato Ricer is a German made tool with a fine hole basket that produces very smooth mash. It is made of aluminum, which makes it lightweight and easy to handle. However, aluminum may react with acidic foods, so it is best for potatoes only.
Pros
- Very fine holes for silky texture
- Lightweight
- Durable aluminum
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Aluminum can react with acidic ingredients
Chefn Nonstick Potato Ricer
The Chef’n Nonstick Potato Ricer features a nonstick coated basket that releases food easily and cleans up quickly. It has a comfortable grip and a compact design. Some users note that the coating may wear off over time, but for many it is a convenient option.
Pros
- Nonstick basket for easy release
- Comfortable grip
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Coating may chip with heavy use
- Smaller capacity
Side by side
| # | Model | Material | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OXO Good Grips Potato Ricer | Stainless steel and plastic | Best Overall | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Zyliss Easy Press Potato Ricer | Stainless steel and plastic | Best for Arthritis | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Kitchenaid Gourmet Potato Ricer | Stainless steel | Best for Durability | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Tramontina Stainless Steel Potato Ricer | Stainless steel | Best Value | 8.7 | Check price |
| 5 | Norpro Potato Ricer | Stainless steel | Best for Large Batches | 8.5 | Check price |
| 6 | Westmark Classic Potato Ricer | Aluminum | Best for Fine Texture | 8.3 | Check price |
| 7 | Chefn Nonstick Potato Ricer | Stainless steel with nonstick coating | Best for Nonstick | 8.0 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a potato ricer and a masher?
A potato ricer presses potatoes through small holes, producing a fine, fluffy texture with no lumps. A masher crushes potatoes with a mashing motion, which can leave lumps and result in a denser texture.
Can I use a potato ricer for other foods?
Yes, you can use a ricer for cooked vegetables like carrots or cauliflower, and for making baby food, gnocchi, or even squeezing excess liquid from spinach.
How many potatoes can a standard ricer hold?
Most ricers hold between 1 and 1.5 pounds of potatoes, which is enough for about 2 to 4 servings. Larger models can hold up to 2 pounds.
Is a potato ricer dishwasher safe?
Many stainless steel models are dishwasher safe, but check the product description. Aluminum and some nonstick models may require hand washing to preserve the finish.
Why do my potatoes come out lumpy when using a ricer?
Lumps can occur if the potatoes are not fully cooked or if you press too quickly. Make sure potatoes are tender and press them through in a steady motion. Also, avoid overfilling the basket.
Do I need to peel potatoes before ricing?
It is generally recommended to peel potatoes for smooth mash, but you can rice unpeeled potatoes if you don’t mind small bits of skin in the texture. The ricer will push the flesh through, leaving the skins behind.
What is the best way to clean a potato ricer?
Rinse it immediately after use. For thorough cleaning, use a small brush to remove food particles from the holes. Most stainless steel models can be placed in the dishwasher, but hand washing is gentler.
Are there electric potato ricers?
There are electric food mills or potato mashers that can achieve a similar texture, but traditional manual ricers are more common and easier to clean. Electric versions may be less precise.
Can I rice frozen potatoes?
It is best to use cooked, fresh potatoes. Frozen potatoes have a different texture and may not rice well. Thaw and cook them first if you must use frozen.
How do I store a potato ricer?
Store it in a dry place, either hanging or in a drawer. Ensure it is completely dry to prevent rust. Some ricers have a locking mechanism to keep the handles closed for compact storage.
The bottom line
For most households, the OXO Good Grips Potato Ricer offers the best combination of comfort, durability, and performance. If you have hand weakness, the Zyliss Easy Press is a smart alternative. Budget conscious buyers will appreciate the Tramontina, while those cooking for a crowd should consider the Norpro. Choose based on your priorities, but any of these will improve your mashed potato game.
