What to Make with Leftover Mashed Potatoes: Delicious Ideas You’ll Love

Leftover mashed potatoes piling up in your fridge? Don’t throw them out! They’re the perfect base for all kinds of tasty dishes. Whether you’re craving something savory like crispy potato cakes or comforting pies, leftover mashed potatoes can be transformed into meals that everyone will enjoy. Let’s explore a few creative ideas to give your leftovers a delicious second life.

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Why Leftover Mashed Potatoes Are the Best Kitchen Hack

If you’re anything like us, you’ve probably found yourself staring at a bowl of leftover mashed potatoes wondering what to do with them. Instead of letting them sit in the fridge, get creative! Leftover mashed potatoes are surprisingly versatile. They’re like a magic ingredient that can be turned into just about anything: savory potato cakes, cheesy casseroles, or even a rich, creamy soup. You don’t have to go to the store or spend an hour prepping; your leftovers have you covered.

And let’s be honest, how often do you get to turn something as simple as mashed potatoes into a whole new meal? The best part is, these recipes take no time to pull together. You’ve already done the heavy lifting – now it’s just about turning those mashed potatoes into something new and delicious. So, let’s take a look at some of the easiest, most satisfying ways to repurpose those leftovers.

1. Potato Pancakes: Crispy, Comforting, and Perfect for Breakfast

Potato pancakes are one of those classic dishes that just seem to make everything feel right. They’re simple, satisfying, and the perfect way to give your leftover mashed potatoes a second life. Imagine a crispy, golden pancake on your plate, a bit of crunch on the outside, and soft, fluffy mashed potatoes on the inside. It’s the kind of comfort food that can easily turn into a breakfast favorite or a cozy dinner side.

The best part? They’re super versatile. You can enjoy them on their own, but why stop there? Add a dollop of sour cream, toss on some chopped chives, or even top them with a fried egg for a breakfast that’ll have you going back for seconds. You could even make them a little fancy by adding smoked salmon or a drizzle of hollandaise sauce. Seriously, the possibilities are endless.

How to Make Potato Pancakes:

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup of flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Grab a bowl and combine your mashed potatoes, flour, egg, chopped onion, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it forms a nice, well-blended mixture.
2. Heat a splash of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. You want enough to coat the bottom of the pan and get that crispy, golden texture going.
3. Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture into the skillet and flatten them slightly to form pancakes.
4. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. Don’t rush it – give them time to crisp up!
5. Serve them hot with your favorite toppings.

These potato pancakes are more than just a side dish. They make a great breakfast (hello, bacon and eggs!) or a fun snack to pair with some sour cream or applesauce. If you’ve never tried them, get ready to add them to your regular meal rotation. They’re that good.

2. Potato Croquettes: Crunchy on the Outside, Creamy on the Inside

Potato croquettes are like the perfect bite-sized treat for anyone who loves a little crunch with their comfort food. Think of them as little golden nuggets of mashed potato bliss, breaded and fried until they’re crispy on the outside, but still soft and creamy on the inside. Seriously, how could anyone resist them? They’re ideal for a party appetizer, a fun snack, or even a side dish if you’re feeling fancy.

The best part is that you can easily whip them up with leftover mashed potatoes, which is always a win in my book. Plus, they’re customizable, you can mix in some cheese, spices, or herbs to give them an extra flavor boost. Pair them with a dipping sauce like aioli, sour cream, or even a spicy ketchup, and you’ve got a snack that everyone will love.

How to Make Potato Croquettes:

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 1/4 cup of grated cheese (cheddar works beautifully)
• 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup of flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix your mashed potatoes, grated cheese, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it all together until you have a nice, thick mixture that holds together.
2. Now, shape the mixture into little balls or logs, whatever you’re in the mood for. You can even get creative and make them into fun shapes!
3. Dredge each croquette in flour first, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally roll them in breadcrumbs. This will give them that crispy coating we all love.
4. Heat some oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the croquettes halfway when you drop them in.
5. Fry the croquettes until they’re golden brown and crispy – this usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t rush it, let them crisp up properly!
6. Once they’re golden, remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel to get rid of any excess oil.

Serve them hot and watch them disappear, they won’t last long! Whether you’re having them as a snack or pairing them with dinner, these croquettes are bound to be a hit.

3. Shepherd’s Pie: A Comfort Food Classic

Shepherd’s pie is the definition of comfort food: hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to hit the spot. It’s a dish that’s been around forever for a reason: a layer of savory ground meat (usually lamb or beef) topped with a creamy, mashed potato blanket. But here’s the best part, leftover mashed potatoes make the perfect shortcut for throwing this meal together in no time.

When you’ve got some mashed potatoes sitting in the fridge, why not turn them into something cozy and delicious? Shepherd’s pie is like a big, warm hug in food form – rich, flavorful, and easy to make. Plus, it’s a great option for dinner and even better as a meal prep because it reheats beautifully.

How to Make Shepherd’s Pie:

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix, if you’re feeling adventurous)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), get it nice and hot for a perfect golden top.
2. Brown the ground meat in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once it’s fully browned, drain any excess fat to keep things from getting too greasy.
3. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until they’re softened and fragrant, this only takes a couple of minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, peas, and beef broth. Let it all simmer together for about 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens up.
5. Once the meat mixture is ready, transfer it into a baking dish (don’t forget to scrape up every last bit from the skillet, that’s flavor you don’t want to miss).
6. Spread your leftover mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Try to smooth it out as best as you can, a little rustic texture is perfect for this dish.
7. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

This shepherd’s pie is everything you want in a comfort meal – rich, filling, and packed with all the flavors that make you feel good. Serve it up with a simple side salad, and you’ve got yourself a complete meal. Plus, if you’ve got leftovers (which you totally will), it’s even better the next day.

4. Mashed Potato Waffles: Savory and Fun to Make

Okay, I know what you’re thinking – waffles made out of mashed potatoes? It might sound a little wild, but trust me, these savory waffles are so much fun to make (and eat). They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and the perfect twist on your usual breakfast routine. Plus, they’re super versatile. You can have them as a side with dinner or dress them up with bacon and eggs for a playful brunch.

And it’s ridiculously easy to make. So if you’ve got leftover mashed potatoes sitting around, this is a fun way to make them the star of the meal. Imagine serving these up with a dollop of sour cream or some crispy bacon, they’ll be gone in minutes.

How to Make Mashed Potato Waffles:

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup of flour
• 1/4 cup of grated cheese (cheddar or whatever you have on hand works great)
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Non-stick spray or oil for the waffle iron

Instructions:

1. Start by preheating your waffle iron. Give it a light spray with non-stick cooking spray or brush it with a bit of oil, you want that perfect crispy finish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, flour, cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s nice and smooth, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Spoon the potato mixture onto the waffle iron. Depending on the size of your iron, you may need to do this in batches.
4. Close the waffle iron and cook according to your iron’s instructions. You’re looking for a crispy, golden exterior, so don’t be afraid to let it cook a little longer than you would for a regular waffle.
5. Serve them hot, topped with your favorite fixings. Think sour cream, crispy bacon, or scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.

These mashed potato waffles are a game-changer. They’re fun, they’re different, and they’ll definitely be a hit with anyone you serve them to. So, the next time you’ve got some leftover mash, give these a try, you won’t regret it.

5. Potato Soup: Creamy and Comforting

If you’re craving something cozy and comforting, mashed potato soup is your answer. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth with each spoonful – creamy, rich, and full of flavor. The beauty of this soup is that it’s not only delicious, but it’s also super easy to whip up. Leftover mashed potatoes are the perfect base, and with just a few ingredients, you’ve got a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s great on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a sandwich for an extra filling lunch or dinner.

This soup is what I like to call “the ultimate comfort food.” It’s like having a warm, velvety hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make those leftovers feel fresh and exciting again.

How to Make Potato Soup:

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 3 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup of cream or milk (depending on how rich you want it)
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Start by heating a little butter or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, this should only take about 2-3 minutes.
2. Next, add your mashed potatoes to the pot, along with the broth and cream. Stir everything together until it’s nicely combined.
3. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it to get nice and hot, and the flavors to meld together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget to give it a final taste check, you might want to add a little extra salt or pepper depending on your preference.
5. Serve hot with some optional toppings: shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or a dollop of sour cream all make excellent additions.

This potato soup is perfect for those chilly days when you just want something warm and filling to eat. It’s simple, comforting, and, best of all, a great way to use up those leftover mashed potatoes. What’s not to love?

6. Potato and Cheese Casserole: Cheesy Goodness

If you’re someone who believes everything is better with cheese, then this cheesy potato casserole is going to be your new best friend. It’s a dish that’s rich, comforting, and packed with all the cheesy, gooey goodness you could want. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make your leftover mashed potatoes feel like something fresh and exciting. You can add some bacon or ham to really kick it up a notch, making it extra indulgent if you’re in the mood.

This casserole comes together quickly and bakes up into a golden, bubbly masterpiece. Whether you serve it as a side with roasted meats or make it the main event with a simple salad, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. It’s one of those dishes that everyone will fight over at the table!

How to Make Potato and Cheese Casserole:

• 3 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese you love)
• 1/2 cup of milk or cream (depending on how indulgent you’re feeling)
• 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish lightly.
2. In a bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until it’s nice and creamy.
3. Spoon the mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Top it off with breadcrumbs and dot the surface with butter. This will give it that beautiful, golden crust as it bakes.
5. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

This cheesy potato casserole is as simple as it is satisfying. It’s perfect for when you want to turn your leftover mashed potatoes into something special and comforting. Plus, it’s so easy to throw together, you’ll be enjoying it in no time. Serve it up with some roasted chicken, a fresh salad, or just dig in on its own. Either way, it’s a win.

7. Vegan Shepherd’s Pie: Plant-Based Comfort

Craving a hearty, comforting meal but sticking to a plant-based diet? This vegan shepherd’s pie is the perfect solution. It’s got all the cozy, satisfying flavors of the classic dish, just without the meat. Instead, we’re using lentils or mushrooms for that savory filling, all topped off with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes. It’s a rich, comforting dish that’ll warm you right up, and it doesn’t even have to be vegan to be loved by everyone.

This version has all the heartiness you want in a shepherd’s pie, with plenty of flavor packed into that savory filling. Plus, it’s easy to throw together and makes a great family meal, whether you’re vegan or not. Serve it with a side salad, or just dig into the comforting goodness on its own.

How to Make Vegan Shepherd’s Pie:

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup of cooked lentils or mushrooms (both work wonderfully)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup of vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the onions and carrots over medium heat until they soften, this should take about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils or mushrooms to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing everything to blend together.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and vegetable broth. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, until it thickens up and the flavors meld.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, then top it off with your leftover mashed potatoes, spreading them out evenly.
6. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

This vegan shepherd’s pie is a total win – it’s warm, filling, and just as comforting as the original. Whether you’re following a plant-based diet or just looking for something different, this dish will hit the spot. It’s a great go-to for any weeknight meal or when you’re craving some plant-powered comfort food.

Handy Tips and Lifehacks for Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Leftover mashed potatoes? You’ve got options! Here are a few tricks to help you get the most out of your leftovers:

1. Flavor Boost: Mashed potatoes are a blank slate. Try stirring in a spoonful of sour cream, some shredded cheese, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley. Little additions like these can take your leftovers from “meh” to mouthwatering in seconds.
2. Freeze ‘Em for Later: Got a ton of leftovers you won’t use right away? Don’t toss them! Scoop them into an airtight container or freezer bag and pop them in the freezer. They freeze surprisingly well and make for an easy meal later down the line.
3. Extra Crispy, Please: If you’re frying them up (like for croquettes or pancakes), toss a handful of panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers into the mix for a killer crunch. It’s an easy way to elevate the texture and make your dish even more irresistible.
4. Soup That’s Really Smooth: Want your mashed potato soup to be next-level creamy? Grab an immersion blender or regular blender and give it a whirl. It’ll turn your soup into that velvety, smooth texture you can’t get enough of.
5. Top It Off: A good topping can make all the difference. Whether it’s crispy bacon, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of green onions, adding a little extra flair on top makes your dish pop with flavor.

Now, you’ve got all the tools you need to make the most of your mashed potato leftovers. From freezing them for future meals to jazzing them up with tasty toppings, these little lifehacks will make sure nothing goes to waste in your kitchen. So, next time you’ve got leftovers, get ready to turn them into something truly awesome!

Final Thoughts: Get Creative with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Leftover mashed potatoes are more versatile than you might think. Whether you’re in the mood for something crispy, creamy, or cheesy, there’s a recipe here for you. From potato pancakes and croquettes to comforting casseroles and pies, these creative ideas will help you turn your leftovers into something special. So the next time you have a bit of mashed potatoes left in the fridge, don’t let them go to waste, get cooking and enjoy these delicious meals!

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