6 Creative Uses for Leftover Mashed Potatoes
In my opinion, one of the best things about any large holiday meal is the leftovers that get tucked into the fridge for another day’s dinner. I’m always thinking about how I can cook once in order to eat twice, and there’s no need to wait for the holidays. I often intentionally make too much food in order to guarantee I’ll have a little left behind for another day.
While a Thanksgiving turkey is easily transformed into something new and tasty, I find most people look at a bowl of leftover mashed potatoes and see nothing more than a simple starch that needs reheating. But what if I told you those smashed spuds could be turned into ‘pasta,’ waffles, and even a cake? You probably wouldn’t believe me, but I assure you they can be. The results are so tasty it’s worth making sure you have more potatoes than you need whenever you’re making them.
Here are six creative uses for your leftover mashed potatoes. I hope you enjoy!
6 Ways to Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes
1. Homemade Gnocchi:
Use mashed potatoes to make homemade gnocchi by combining with egg and flour. Here’s a great recipe for any time of year (use approx. 2 cups mashed potatoes in place of the baked ones).
2. Pie Toppings:
Transform leftover mashed potatoes into another night’s dinner by using them to top shepherd’s or chicken pot pie.
3. Gluten-Free Lemon Drizzle Cake:
I’ve made this recipe with great success. Who knew you could use mashed potatoes to make a gluten-free cake? Totally brilliant! Feel free to use clementine or orange juice in place of the lemon, and garnish with sugared cranberries for a seasonal twist on this spring-like dessert.
4. Mashed Potato and Kale Cakes:
Unlike the recipe above, these 3-bites cakes are savoury and stuffed with hearty greens, making them the perfect holiday lunch or dinner. To assemble, add some steamed kale to your leftover mashed potatoes (use the quantities that look good to you), and mix to combine. Shape into 2”-3″ patties, dip into an egg wash, and then cover with panko or regular breadcrumbs. Fry in an oiled pan over medium high heat, cooking until warmed throughout and golden brown on all sides.
5. Make Waffles:
These mashed potato, cheddar and chive waffles are perfect for your fancy brunch or weekend breakfast celebration.
6. Pierogies:
This is a fun recipe to make with the kids. Feel free to get creative with your fillings, adding chopped bits of bacon, ham, or green onions to the potato mixture.
