What to Do with Leftover Mashed Potatoes: 10+ Creative & Delicious Ideas

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a container of leftover mashed potatoes in your fridge, wondering what to do with leftover mashed potatoes before they go bad, you’re not alone. Whether you made too much for Thanksgiving dinner, Sunday roast, or just your weeknight meal, leftover mashed potatoes are one of those ingredients that often get pushed to the back of the refrigerator until they’re no longer safe to eat. What a waste!

But here’s the exciting truth: leftover mashed potatoes are actually a culinary treasure waiting to be transformed. These creamy, fluffy leftovers are incredibly versatile and can be repurposed into everything from crispy breakfast hash to decadent chocolate cake (yes, really!). Instead of reheating the same old mashed potatoes night after night, you can create entirely new dishes that your family will love.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share fifteen creative and delicious ways to use leftover mashed potatoes. You’ll discover savory recipes perfect for dinner, breakfast ideas that will make mornings exciting, and even some surprising sweet treats. Plus, we’ll give you expert tips on storing and reheating mashed potatoes so they taste just as good as the day you made them. Ready to turn those leftovers into something amazing? Let’s dive in!

Savory Recipes: Transform Your Leftover Mashed Potatoes

1. Crispy Mashed Potato Cakes

Recipe Overview: These golden, crispy cakes are the perfect answer to what to do with leftover mashed potatoes. Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, they’re irresistible as a side dish or snack.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4-6 cakes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (chilled)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying

Method:

1. In a large bowl, combine chilled mashed potatoes, cheese, green onions, egg, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until well combined and the mixture holds together.
3. Form into patties about 3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with sour cream, applesauce, or alongside eggs for breakfast. These also make excellent appetizers with a dipping sauce.

Storage Tips: Cooked potato cakes can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best crispiness.

Nutritional Value (per cake): Calories: 145 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Carbohydrates: 14g

2. Loaded Mashed Potato Croquettes

Recipe Overview: These elegant French-inspired croquettes turn leftover mashed potatoes into a restaurant-worthy appetizer. Crispy breadcrumb coating gives way to a creamy, cheesy center.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 12 croquettes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Mix mashed potatoes with bacon, cheese, chives, salt, and pepper.
2. Form mixture into oval or cylindrical shapes about 2 inches long.
3. Place on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
5. Roll each croquette in flour, dip it in egg, then coat it with breadcrumbs.
6. Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F.
7. Fry croquettes in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or marinara sauce for dipping. Perfect as party appetizers or alongside a salad for lunch.

Storage Tips: Unfried breaded croquettes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to cooking time.

Nutritional Value (per croquette): Calories: 125 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 6g | Carbohydrates: 14g

3. Creamy Mashed Potato Soup

Recipe Overview: This is the best way to use leftover mashed potatoes for dinner. Rich, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes, this soup transforms leftovers into a cozy meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh chives for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté onion until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Whisk in mashed potatoes and broth until smooth. Break up any lumps.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in cream and cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve topped with bacon, extra cheese, and fresh chives.

Serving Suggestions: Pair with crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete comfort food meal.

Storage Tips: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth if needed to thin.

Nutritional Value (per serving): Calories: 320 | Protein: 12g | Fat: 22g | Carbohydrates: 20g

4. Loaded Mashed Potato Skins

Recipe Overview: All the flavor of loaded potato skins, but easier! Use leftover mashed potatoes to fill crispy potato shells for an irresistible appetizer.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 8 skins

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut baked potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch shell.
3. Brush potato shells inside and out with melted butter.
4. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes until crispy.
5. Fill each shell with leftover mashed potatoes.
6. Top with cheese and bacon.
7. Bake for another 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Top with sour cream and green onions before serving.

Serving Suggestions: Perfect for game day, parties, or as a hearty appetizer. Serve with additional sour cream and hot sauce on the side.

Storage Tips: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

Nutritional Value (per skin): Calories: 195 | Protein: 7g | Fat: 10g | Carbohydrates: 19g

5. Mashed Potato Breakfast Hash

Recipe Overview: Are u worried about, what to do with leftover mashed potatoes? start your day right with this hearty breakfast hash. This simple recipe for leftover mashed potatoes transforms them into a satisfying morning meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1/2 pound breakfast sausage or diced ham
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Method:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the sausage until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Remove and set aside.
3. Add remaining oil, then sauté peppers and onions until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mashed potatoes to the skillet, breaking them up and pressing them down.
5. Let cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a crispy bottom.
6. Stir in cooked sausage and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
7. Make four wells in the hash and crack an egg into each.
8. Cover and cook until eggs are set to your liking, about 5-7 minutes.
9. Sprinkle with cheese and let it melt before serving.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with toast, hot sauce, and fresh fruit for a complete breakfast. Perfect for weekend brunch or a hearty weekday breakfast.

Storage Tips: Hash (without eggs) can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet and top with fresh eggs when ready to serve.

Nutritional Value (per serving): Calories: 385 | Protein: 19g | Fat: 24g | Carbohydrates: 22g

6. Shepherd’s Pie with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Recipe Overview: This classic comfort food is perfect for using leftover mashed potatoes with gravy. A hearty meat and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, brown ground meat over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook until vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato paste, then add broth, Worcestershire sauce, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture.
7. Dot with butter and sprinkle cheese on top.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread. This is a complete meal in one dish.

Storage Tips: Refrigerate covered for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes or microwave individual portions.

Nutritional Value (per serving): Calories: 425 | Protein: 24g | Fat: 22g | Carbohydrates: 32g

7. Cheesy Mashed Potato Quesadillas

Recipe Overview: A fun Mexican-inspired twist is perfect answer to “What to do with leftover mashed potatoes” . These quesadillas are quick, kid-friendly, and perfect for lunch or dinner.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon or chorizo, crumbled
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Sour cream and salsa for serving
• Butter for cooking

Method:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of a tortilla and place it butter-side down in the skillet.
3. Spread 1/3 cup mashed potatoes on half the tortilla.
4. Top with cheese, bacon, and green onions.
5. Fold tortilla in half and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cheese melts.
6. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
7. Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream and salsa.

Serving Suggestions: Perfect for a quick lunch or easy dinner. Serve with guacamole, pico de gallo, or a simple side salad.

Storage Tips: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat in a dry skillet for the best texture.

Nutritional Value (per quesadilla): Calories: 485 | Protein: 20g | Fat: 28g | Carbohydrates: 38g

8. Mashed Potato Gnocchi

Recipe Overview: Are you thinking what to do with leftover mashed potatoes, turn leftover mashed potatoes into delicate Italian dumplings. This recipe is easier than traditional gnocchi and uses what you already have.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (unseasoned works best)
• 1 1/2 to 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Fresh sage and butter for serving
• Parmesan cheese for topping

Method:

1. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, 1 1/2 cups flour, egg, and salt.
2. Knead gently until a soft dough forms, adding more flour if too sticky.
3. Divide the dough into 4 portions.
4. Roll each portion into a rope about 3/4-inch thick.
5. Cut into 1-inch pieces and press gently with a fork to create ridges.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
7. Cook gnocchi in batches until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Remove with a slotted spoon and toss with butter and sage.
9. Serve immediately with Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with brown butter and sage, marinara sauce, or pesto. Add grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage Tips: Uncooked gnocchi can be frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to freezer bags for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen.

Nutritional Value (per serving): Calories: 285 | Protein: 8g | Fat: 6g | Carbohydrates: 50g

9. Mashed Potato Pizza Crust

Recipe Overview: A unique, gluten-friendly pizza crust made from leftover mashed potatoes. Crispy on the outside with a soft interior, it’s a fun alternative to traditional pizza.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Pizza sauce and your favorite toppings

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix mashed potatoes, 1 cup mozzarella, egg, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Spread mixture on prepared baking sheet into a 10-12 inch circle, about 1/4-inch thick.
4. Bake for 15 minutes until edges are golden and crust is set.
5. Remove from oven and add pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings.
6. Bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side salad for a fun dinner. Great for kids and anyone looking for a creative way to use leftover mashed potatoes.

Storage Tips: Best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven.

Nutritional Value (per slice): Calories: 245 | Protein: 12g | Fat: 12g | Carbohydrates: 22g

10. Mashed Potato Pancakes (Boxty)

Recipe Overview: This traditional Irish recipe combines leftover mashed potatoes with grated raw potatoes for the ultimate potato pancake. Crispy, golden, and absolutely delicious.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8 pancakes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup raw potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Butter or oil for frying

Method:

1. Squeeze excess moisture from grated raw potatoes using a clean kitchen towel.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, grated potatoes, flour, baking powder, egg, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until well combined. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
4. Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cup portions of batter into the skillet and flatten slightly.
6. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
7. Keep warm in a low oven while cooking the remaining pancakes.

Serving Suggestions: Serve for breakfast with eggs and bacon, or as a side dish with applesauce and sour cream. Delicious any time of day!

Storage Tips: Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best crispiness. Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutritional Value (per pancake): Calories: 95 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Carbohydrates: 15g

Sweet Recipes: Unexpected Desserts with Mashed Potatoes

11. Chocolate Mashed Potato Cake

Recipe Overview: Yes, you read that right! Mashed potatoes create an incredibly moist chocolate cake that’s rich, decadent, and will have everyone guessing the secret ingredient.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 12

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes (unseasoned, at room temperature)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup hot water
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat together mashed potatoes, oil, and eggs until smooth.
4. Add potato mixture to dry ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Stir in hot water and vanilla. The batter will be thin.
6. Pour into prepared pan.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool completely before frosting with your favorite chocolate frosting.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any time you want an impressive dessert.

Storage Tips: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Value (per slice): Calories: 395 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 20g | Carbohydrates: 52g

12. Mashed Potato Donuts

Recipe Overview: These old-fashioned cake donuts get their incredible tender texture from mashed potatoes. Light, fluffy, and perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Yield: 12 donuts

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes (unseasoned, at room temperature)
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Oil for frying
• Cinnamon sugar or glaze for topping

Method:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
2. In another bowl, mix mashed potatoes, eggs, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix just until combined. Don’t overmix.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and pat to 1/2-inch thickness.
5. Cut with a donut cutter or use two round cutters (one 3-inch, one 1-inch for the hole).
6. Heat 3 inches of oil to 375°F in a heavy pot.
7. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
8. Drain on paper towels and toss in cinnamon sugar or dip in glaze while warm.

Serving Suggestions: Serve fresh for breakfast with coffee or hot chocolate. These are best enjoyed within a few hours of making.

Storage Tips: Best eaten fresh. Can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, though they won’t be as fresh.

Nutritional Value (per donut): Calories: 285 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 12g | Carbohydrates: 40g

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Proper storage is essential for keeping your leftover mashed potatoes fresh and safe to eat. Here’s how to store and reheat them perfectly:

Refrigerator Storage:

• Transfer mashed potatoes to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days
• Press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent drying out
• Keep the temperature at 40°F or below

Freezer Storage:

• Mashed potatoes freeze well for up to 2 months
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags for easy use
• Add a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream before freezing for a better texture
• Label with date and quantity
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Best Reheating Methods:

1. Stovetop: Heat over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
2. Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
3. Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F for 20-30 minutes.
4. Slow Cooker: Great for large batches. Heat on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

Pro Tips:

• Always add extra liquid when reheating to restore moisture
• Don’t overheat, as this can make potatoes gluey
• Stir gently to maintain texture
• Add fresh butter or cream when reheating for the best flavor

Time-Saving Tips for Using Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Make the most of your leftover mashed potatoes with these efficient tips:

Meal Prep Ideas:

• Form potato cakes or croquettes and freeze uncooked for quick future meals
• Portion mashed potatoes into ice cube trays for exact measurements in recipes
• Mix in seasonings and cheese ahead of time for ready-to-use flavored potatoes
• Prep full shepherd’s pie assemblies and freeze before baking

Quick Cooking Hacks:

• Use a food processor to mix mashed potatoes with other ingredients quickly
• Pre-make and freeze gnocchi for 5-minute dinners
• Keep pre-formed potato cakes in the fridge for instant breakfast sides
• Use silicone molds to portion and freeze potatoes in fun shapes for kids

Ingredient Shortcuts:

• Buy pre-cooked bacon or rotisserie chicken to add to recipes
• Use store-bought sauces and gravies to speed up shepherd’s pie
• Keep shredded cheese on hand for quick additions
• Stock frozen vegetables for easy soup and hash additions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat leftover mashed potatoes after 5 days?

It’s best to use leftover mashed potatoes within 3-5 days for optimal safety and quality. After 5 days, the risk of bacterial growth increases. If your mashed potatoes show any signs of mold, off-odor, or discoloration, discard them immediately. When in doubt, throw it out!

What’s the best way to reheat mashed potatoes without drying them out?

The best method is to reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or butter while stirring constantly. This helps restore the creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, and add liquid as needed. Avoid high heat, which can make potatoes gluey.

Can I freeze mashed potatoes?

Yes! Mashed potatoes freeze well for up to 2 months. For best results, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream before freezing to help maintain texture. Portion into freezer bags, remove air, and freeze flat for easy storage. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How do I make leftover mashed potatoes taste fresh again?

Freshen up leftover mashed potatoes by reheating with added butter, cream, or sour cream. Whip them with a hand mixer to restore fluffiness. You can also boost flavor by stirring in roasted garlic, fresh herbs, cheese, or caramelized onions. A pinch of fresh salt and pepper works wonders, too!

What can I make with leftover mashed potatoes and chicken?

Combine leftover mashed potatoes with chicken for shepherd’s pie, chicken and potato croquettes, loaded potato skins topped with diced chicken, or creamy chicken and potato soup. You can also make chicken-stuffed potato cakes or add both to a breakfast hash with vegetables.

Are mashed potatoes still good if they’ve been left out overnight?

No, mashed potatoes left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be discarded for food safety reasons. Bacteria multiply rapidly between 40°F and 140°F, so perishable foods like mashed potatoes shouldn’t be left unrefrigerated. Always refrigerate leftovers promptly.

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes that have sour cream or cheese in them?

Absolutely! Mashed potatoes with sour cream, cheese, or other mix-ins work perfectly in most recipes. The added ingredients often enhance flavor. Just be aware that heavily seasoned or flavored mashed potatoes (like garlic or herb varieties) will carry those flavors into your new dish.

What’s the difference between leftover mashed potatoes and instant mashed potatoes for recipes?

Leftover homemade mashed potatoes have better texture, flavor, and moisture content than instant potatoes for most recipes. They create more authentic results in dishes like potato cakes and gnocchi. However, instant mashed potatoes can work in a pinch for recipes where texture is less critical, like in baked goods.

Can I add leftover mashed potatoes to bread or pizza dough?

Yes! Mashed potatoes can be incorporated into bread dough for softer, more tender bread with a longer shelf life. They also work well in pizza crust, creating a unique texture. Generally, you can replace up to 25% of the flour in a recipe with mashed potatoes. The dough may be stickier, so adjust flour as needed.

How do I spice up leftover mashed potatoes?

Transform bland leftover mashed potatoes by stirring in roasted garlic, crispy bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh herbs (chives, parsley, dill), caramelized onions, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, or horseradish. You can also add spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, or everything bagel seasoning.

What to do with leftover mashed potatoes and gravy?

The combination of mashed potatoes and gravy is perfect for shepherd’s pie (the gravy adds flavor to the meat layer), breakfast bowls, or as a base for poutine-style dishes with cheese curds. You can also make gravy-stuffed potato croquettes or use both to create a hearty pot pie filling.

Can I make mashed potato bread with leftovers?

Yes! Mashed potatoes make excellent bread that’s soft, moist, and stays fresh longer. Use about 1 cup of mashed potatoes per loaf, replacing some of the liquid in your recipe. The potatoes add a subtle flavor and wonderful texture. This works for both yeast breads and quick breads.

Conclusion

Now that you know what to do with leftover mashed potatoes, you’ll never look at those refrigerator leftovers the same way again! From crispy potato cakes and elegant croquettes to surprising desserts like chocolate cake and donuts, leftover mashed potatoes are truly a blank canvas for culinary creativity. These simple recipes transform what might have been wasted food into delicious meals your whole family will love.

The beauty of leftover mashed potatoes lies in their versatility. Whether you’re looking for what to do with leftover mashed potatoes for dinner, need a quick breakfast idea, or want to impress guests with