A medium boiled potato has around 144 calories. See the full calorie breakdown for raw, baked, mashed, and fried potatoes — plus how cooking changes everything.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in a medium baked potato?
A medium baked russet potato with skin (about 173g) contains roughly 164 calories, 37g of carbohydrates, 4.5g of protein, and 4g of fiber. Without the skin, the calorie count drops to around 121 calories.
Does boiling a potato reduce calories?
No — boiling does not destroy calories. A boiled potato reads lower in calories per 100g (86 kcal vs. 95 kcal baked) because it absorbs water during cooking, which increases weight without adding calories. The potato's total calorie content stays essentially the same.
How many calories in a potato vs. sweet potato?
White and sweet potatoes are nearly identical in calories — around 77 to 86 kcal per 100g raw. Sweet potatoes provide more fiber and significantly more beta-carotene (Vitamin A), while white potatoes deliver more Vitamin C and potassium.
Are potatoes fattening?
Plain potatoes are not inherently fattening. A boiled or baked potato is low in fat and moderately caloric. The issue is preparation: butter, sour cream, oil, and frying can multiply the calorie count 3 to 6 times compared to a plain boiled potato.
How many calories in french fries?
Fast food french fries contain around 312 kcal per 100g — roughly 3.5 times more than a plain boiled potato. A medium serving at most fast food chains delivers about 365 calories, largely from the cooking oil absorbed during frying.