29 Of The Best Recipes For Leftover Mashed Potatoes

While mashed potatoes are often thought of as a humble side dish, they can be so much more than that. With a little creativity, you can transform them into a variety of delicious dishes. From Italian-inspired gnocchi to savory pizza toppings and crispy fritters, the possibilities are endless. In this guide, we’ll explore several innovative ways to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes, making them a staple in your kitchen rather than just a one-time use.

Mashed Potato Gnocchi

Transforming leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious meal is as easy as making gnocchi. Start by combining the mashed potatoes with an egg, salt, and just enough flour to form a dough that’s pliable but not too sticky. Next, divide the dough into five sections and roll each one into a long rope about an inch thick. Cut the ropes into one-inch pieces and then boil them in batches until they float to the surface of the water.

This process may take some time, so be patient and don’t overcrowd the pot.

Mashed Potato Balls

Transforming leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious snack requires minimal effort. By combining the spuds with grated cheese, chives, cayenne pepper, and crispy cooked bacon, you can shape them into bite-sized balls. Aim for 25-30 spheres that can be coated in eggs and then Panko breadcrumbs before being fried to a golden brown perfection in a stockpot over medium-high heat. Once cooked, drain the excess oil on kitchen towels and finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Mashed Potato Waffles

For those who delight in transforming leftovers into culinary masterpieces and experimenting with innovative sour cream recipes, mashed potato waffles are a game-changer. If you’re familiar with the process of making waffles, you’ll be thrilled to discover that it’s a breeze to create these tasty treats using leftover mashed potatoes. Simply whisk together oil, eggs, and buttermilk, then stir in your mashed potatoes, cheese, and scallions.

In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and baking powder before folding the mixture into the potato batter. Preheat your waffle maker and grease it with cooking spray for an even layer of crispy goodness. Serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream for an added touch of indulgence.

Mashed Potato Cakes

The foundation of these crispy potato cakes lies in the rich consistency provided by mashed potatoes. To achieve this, combine eggs, mashed potatoes, grated Cheddar cheese, and flour in a harmonious blend. As you mix, be prepared to adjust the amount of flour to ensure the mixture can maintain its shape. Once perfected, cook the potato cakes in a large skillet over medium-high heat until they’re golden brown on both sides.

Aloo Tikki Potato Cakes

Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with spicy potato cakes, a perfect accompaniment to Curry Night. Begin by combining milk and white bread, blending them seamlessly together. Next, incorporate mashed potatoes, chiles, ground coriander, ground cumin, and salt, allowing the spices to meld harmoniously. Shape the mixture into approximately six patties, then shallow fry them for around four minutes until they reach a golden brown hue.

After cooking, carefully drain away any excess oil on paper towels and serve the warm, crispy treats.

Mashed Potato Muffins

Transforming leftover mashed potatoes into Mashed Potato Muffins is an innovative way to reduce food waste. Simply combine the mashed potatoes with one egg, grated Cheddar cheese, and chopped chives. Add your preferred seasonings and use a spoon or ice cream scoop to portion out the mixture. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 35 minutes, or until the muffins have crisped up.

To take it to the next level, sprinkle additional grated cheese on top before serving, allowing it to melt and create a delightful cheese layer. With this easy recipe, you can breathe new life into yesterday’s mashed potatoes and enjoy a satisfying snack or side dish today.

Tattie Scones

Tattie Scones offer a clever solution to repurposing leftover mashed potatoes in a quintessential Scottish tradition. To create this tasty treat, start by combining the mashed potatoes with butter, salt, flour, an egg, and baking powder, allowing the ingredients to form a cohesive dough. Next, roll out the mixture to a half-inch thickness before cutting it into rounds and then further dividing them into wedges.

Place the scones on a buttered baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (205°C) for approximately 20 minutes, or until they rise and turn a golden brown hue.

Potato Soup

When it comes to making Potato Soup, you don’t necessarily need to start from scratch. Leftover mashed potatoes can be transformed into a creamy and delicious soup by incorporating them with a roux, melted cheese, and a splash of sour cream. Simply whisk together flour and milk in a large pot to create the base, then add the mashed potatoes, grated Cheddar cheese, and desired seasonings.

Once the cheese has fully incorporated, stir in some sour cream and chopped green onions for added richness and freshness. For extra depth of flavor, consider adding your favorite herbs like thyme or dill, or even some diced ham for a smoky touch.

Potato Gâteau

To create this potato cake, start by warming up the mashed potatoes and mixing them with butter, eggs, nutmeg, grated Pecorino cheese, and a pinch of seasoning. Next, grease a baking dish and sprinkle some breadcrumbs on the bottom before spooning in half of the potato mixture and flattening it out. Add a layer of prosciutto cotto, followed by scattered gorgonzola and mozzarella pieces.

Repeat this process with another layer of mashed potatoes, flattening it again before dusting with breadcrumbs and finishing off with a drizzle of olive oil. Finally, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 45-50 minutes before serving.

Potato Croquettes

Transform your meal with the delightful flavors of fluffy potato croquettes. A simple yet impressive side dish, it’s easy to make by combining mashed potatoes with eggs, Parmesan cheese, chopped chives, and flour. Seasoning is key, so don’t skip this step. Once mixed, roll the mixture into balls and refrigerate for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to meld together. After chilling, it’s time to fry these tasty treats.

Start by dipping each ball in an egg wash, then coat with breadcrumbs before adding them to a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Fry in batches until they’re golden brown and crispy all over, making for a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Irish Soda Bread

The Irish have long been known for their creative uses of the humble potato, from traditional dishes like colcannon to innovative creations like this spud-based bread. The key to making this unique loaf is to combine mashed potatoes with a blend of savory ingredients, including nutmeg, honey, olive oil, and buttermilk. To add structure and texture, you’ll also want to incorporate wholewheat flour, grated potato, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of seasoning.

For added flavor and flair, consider topping your dough with mozzarella and sundried tomatoes or seeds and herbs before baking. Once the loaf is golden brown, remove it from the oven and allow it to partly cool before serving warm.

Potato Bread

Transform leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious bread by combining yeast-activated warm water and milk with granulated sugar, an egg, salt, mashed potatoes, bread flour, and melted salted butter. Using your stand mixer’s paddle attachment, blend the ingredients together, then switch to the dough hook and continue beating until a sticky consistency is achieved. Next, knead the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for approximately 30 minutes until it has doubled in size.

Divide the mixture into two portions, shape each into a loaf, and place them into greased loaf pans. Allow the dough to rise again, filling the pans, before baking at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Finally, let the bread cool before serving.

Mashed Potato Rolls

To create rolls using mashed potatoes, start by preheating your oven to 200°F (95°C), then turn it off so that it remains warm. In the microwave, combine butter, milk, and water, heating them until the butter is fully melted. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Add the buttery milk mixture, mashed potatoes, and eggs, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Let it rise in the warm oven for about 45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

Punch down the dough and divide it into 15 pieces. Roll each piece into a circle and place them on a baking sheet lined with plastic wrap, making sure they don’t touch. Leave them to rise again in the oven for another 20-25 minutes. Finally, remove the rolls from the oven and increase the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Pierogi

To give leftover mashed potatoes an unexpected European twist, try making Pierogi. Start by creating the dough by mixing flour, salt, egg, and oil, gradually adding water until a ball forms. Knead it, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill. Meanwhile, combine your mashed potatoes with grated cheese, butter, sour cream, and seasonings to create the filling.

Roll out the dough into nine-inch round circles, place a teaspoon of filling in each, and seal them by pressing the edges together. Crimp with a fork to ensure they’re securely closed. Cook the Pierogi by lightly boiling them until they float to the surface, then fry until golden brown.

Turkey And Potato Soup

When it comes to using up Thanksgiving leftovers, Turkey and Potato Soup is a great option. In a large saucepan, melt some butter over medium heat and sauté a mixture of onions, mushrooms, carrots, and thyme until the vegetables are tender. Next, add in chicken stock and stir until well combined, then gradually whisk in the mashed potatoes to create a smooth soup base. Once the potatoes are fully incorporated, add in chopped cooked turkey and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Let it cook for a few minutes until the turkey is heated through, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy! The result is a comforting, flavorful soup that’s perfect for using up those extra slices of turkey and mashed potatoes.

Mashed Potato Focaccia

When it comes to using up leftover mashed potatoes, baking a delicious potato bread is an excellent way to get creative. Start by activating yeast in warm water and combining 00 flour, bread flour, mashed potatoes, and salt in a stand mixer. Mix in olive oil with the foamy water, gradually adding it until you achieve a sticky, slightly wet dough. Knead the dough into a smooth ball, then let it rise for an hour in an oil-greased bowl.

Next, shape the dough to fit a pan lined with parchment paper and drizzle with oil. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and allow it to rise again for another hour. Once risen, create some indents with your fingers and top the bread with olive oil, salt flakes, and any additional toppings you like – such as sundried tomatoes, rosemary, or Parmesan cheese. Finally, bake the bread in the bottom third of a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Allow the bread to cool for ten minutes before serving.

Fried Mashed Potatoes

Revive mashed potatoes by transforming them into crispy, golden-brown nuggets. Start by coating the mashed potatoes with olive oil, butter, and a sprinkle of garlic powder in a hot skillet. Form the mixture into a large patty and let it cook until the underside is golden brown. Then, break up the potato mass into smaller pieces to create a delightful mix of crispy edges and fluffy centers.

Thanksgiving Potato Fritters

If you’re still enjoying the aftermath of Thanksgiving, there’s no need to let leftover mashed potatoes go to waste. One creative way to repurpose them is by transforming them into potato fritters. Simply combine the leftover spuds with egg, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of seasoning. Shape the mixture into patties, coat them in Panko breadcrumbs, and then shallow-fry them in a skillet over medium-high heat.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – feel free to add other leftovers like cooked turkey or roasted Brussels sprouts to create a tasty and satisfying meal.

Thanksgiving Pizza

Get creative with your pizza toppings by incorporating unexpected ingredients like leftover mashed potatoes. Start by rolling out your pizza dough and applying a layer of tomato sauce as you normally would. Then, add dollops of cranberry sauce, chopped Brussels sprouts, sliced turkey, stuffing, and those tasty mashed potatoes to the mix. Finally, top it all off with cheese and bake until golden brown for a unique and delicious meal.

Ham And Mashed Potato Casserole

To create a delicious and easy-to-make casserole, start by combining mashed potatoes and garlic salt in a bowl. The pungency of the garlic will add a nice depth to the dish without overpowering the other flavors. Next, layer the potato mixture into a baking dish, followed by sprinkling shredded ham on top. For the crowning glory, fold whipped cream with cheese to create a creamy, melted topping.

Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 15 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and bubbly.

Broccoli And Cheese Mashed Potato Casserole

When it comes to building a hearty casserole, mashed potatoes can be a vital component, providing bulk and texture. Start by cooking broccoli florets until tender, then mix them with mashed potatoes, grated cheese, garlic powder, and seasonings. Combine the ingredients thoroughly before transferring the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Smooth out the top and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 30-35 minutes.

While the casserole is baking, cook some bacon rashers until crispy, then crumble them into small pieces. Top the mashed potato mixture with the crumbled bacon, diced green onions, and additional grated cheese. Allow the cheese to melt in the oven, creating a golden-brown crust on top.

Colcannon

Transforming leftover mashed potatoes into a delectable Irish dish is as easy as making Colcannon. Begin by briefly cooking kale, then blend it with the pungency of spring onions. The resulting mixture can be seamlessly merged with the mashed potatoes. For added depth and visual appeal, sprinkle some finely chopped spring onions on top and complete the dish with a pat of butter.

This traditional Irish recipe is a clever way to repurpose mashed potatoes and will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

Japanese Potato Salad

Transform leftover mashed potatoes into a unique salad inspired by Japanese cuisine. Start by incorporating rice vinegar and pepper into the mashed potatoes, then bring corn kernels to a boil until tender before removing them from the pot. Next, use the same pot to cook an egg to perfection. Slice the cooked egg into pieces and pair it with thinly cut cucumber and carrot rounds or halves.

To prepare these crunchy ingredients, sprinkle salt on them, squeeze out excess moisture, and rinse off the remaining salt for a refreshing flavor. Finally, combine all the components – including cooked ham pieces, Japanese mayonnaise, and the potato-corn mixture – to create a harmonious salad that’s sure to delight.

Mashed Potato Quesadilla

When it comes to creative fillings, mashed potatoes in quesadillas are a game-changer. The creamy spud pairs perfectly with the crispy tortilla, gooey cheese, and pungent scallions. Simply spread a dollop of sour cream on one half of the tortilla, followed by a layer of mashed potatoes, grated cheese, and chopped scallions. Add a bit more cheese to tie everything together, then fold the tortilla in half. To cook the quesadillas, preheat a medium-heat pan with butter until it’s hot and sizzling.

Place the folded quesadillas in the pan and cook for a few minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and the cheese is melted to perfection.

Shepherd’s Pie

To create a hearty Shepherd’s Pie, start by browning ground beef in a pan until it’s fully cooked. Next, add in chopped onion, minced garlic, and frozen mixed vegetables. Pour in some beef stock, sprinkle with flour, and season with dried dill weed. Allow the mixture to simmer until the sauce has thickened and the veggies are tender. Once cooked through, transfer the filling to a baking dish and top it off with your final layer of mashed potatoes.

Pop the dish into the oven preheated to 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes start to brown nicely.

Bubble And Squeak

Revamping leftovers has never been easier than with Bubble and Squeak, a quintessential British dish. This clever combination of mashed potatoes and finely chopped Brussels sprouts or cabbage is a match made in heaven. Simply mix the two ingredients together, adding a pinch of seasoning to taste, then shape into patties. Next, heat a skillet pan over medium heat and fry the mixture until both sides are golden brown.

Slice into wedges and serve alongside a hearty casserole or enjoy on its own with a fried egg perched atop – a satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Mashed Potato Biscuits

When it comes to sweet treats, mashed potatoes may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind. However, they can be a surprisingly effective addition to certain baked goods, like these tender biscuits. Start by whisking together baking powder, baking soda, flour, and salt until well combined. Then, add in the shortening (see our article on ‘5 Substitutes For Shortening’ for alternative options) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Next, mix in mashed potatoes, honey, and egg to create a smooth batter. Gradually add milk to achieve a dough-like consistency. Roll out the dough, use a biscuit cutter to form around 20 biscuits, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Mashed Potato Donuts

To craft the perfect donuts, start by combining mashed potatoes with milk, sugar, butter, and eggs. This unique mixture creates a dense and sticky dough that can be refrigerated overnight to allow the flavors to meld together. The next day, roll out the dough to a thickness of about half an inch and use a donut cutter to shape the rounds. Fry the donuts in hot oil until they’re golden brown on both sides, achieving a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.

Final Thoughts

When mashed potatoes take center stage at your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast, you’re left wondering what to do with any leftovers. The key is knowing how to repurpose this comforting side dish with just a few extra ingredients.

One approach is to create even more side dishes, such as croquettes or potato cakes, which can be a delightful addition to the table. Alternatively, you could use mashed potatoes as the foundation for a new main course, like a casserole or Shepherd’s Pie.