Leftover Mashed Potato Recipes: Delicious Ways to Use Up Those Spuds
So, you've got leftover mashed potatoes. Don't let them go to waste! Mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile, and with a little creativity, you can transform those leftover spuds into a variety of delicious meals. This post will explore some exciting and easy recipes to use up your leftover mashed potatoes, saving you time and money while reducing food waste.
Savory Leftover Mashed Potato Recipes
1. Mashed Potato Pancakes:
These crispy, savory pancakes are a fantastic way to enjoy leftover mashed potatoes. Simply mix your mashed potatoes with a little flour, an egg, and some seasonings (onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper are great starting points). Form small patties and pan-fry them until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Serve with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. Pro-Tip: Adding shredded cheese to the mixture adds extra flavor and richness!
2. Loaded Mashed Potato Skins:
Elevate your leftover mashed potatoes into a fun appetizer or snack! Spread the mashed potatoes onto baking sheets, creating small "skins". Bake until lightly golden. Then, top with your favorite loaded potato toppings such as shredded cheese, bacon bits, chives, sour cream, and chili. Bake again until the cheese is melted and bubbly. These are guaranteed crowd-pleasers!
3. Mashed Potato and Sausage Casserole:
Combine the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with savory sausage for a hearty and satisfying casserole. Brown some sausage (Italian sausage works wonderfully), then mix it with your leftover mashed potatoes. You can add other vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrients and flavor. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake until heated through and bubbly. A sprinkle of cheese on top before baking adds a delicious touch.
4. Shepherd's Pie Topping:
Skip the extra work of making mashed potato topping from scratch. Your leftover mashed potatoes are perfectly suited to top a Shepherd's Pie or Cottage Pie. Simply spread the mashed potatoes evenly over your meat and vegetable filling and bake until golden brown and heated through.
Sweet Leftover Mashed Potato Recipes
1. Potato Pancakes with Apple Sauce:
Give your potato pancakes a sweet twist! Instead of savory seasonings, mix in a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg. Serve these sweet potato pancakes with warm apple sauce or a drizzle of maple syrup for a comforting breakfast or brunch dish.
Tips for Storing Leftover Mashed Potatoes
To ensure your mashed potatoes stay fresh and flavorful for your next culinary adventure, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll typically last for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore moisture.
Conclusion: Get Creative with Your Leftovers!
Don't let those leftover mashed potatoes gather dust in your fridge. With these creative recipes, you can easily transform them into delicious and satisfying meals. Remember to experiment with different seasonings and toppings to find your favorite combinations. Enjoy!
