Got a pile of leftover mashed potatoes sitting in your fridge? Don’t let them go to waste! Whip up some wonderful dishes with these 10 recipe ideas that will transform those spuds into something spectacular.
From creamy potato soup to crispy potato pancakes, you’ll be amazed at the versatility of this humble side dish. So grab your apron and get ready to turn those leftovers into a feast fit for a foodie.
Let’s dive into the delightful world of leftover mashed potatoes!

10 Delicious Ways To Use Up Leftover Mashed Potatoes
Looking for delicious ways to use up your leftover mashed potatoes? Get ready to transform those creamy spuds into mouthwatering creations that will leave you craving for more.
From crispy and golden potato patties to loaded potato skins oozing with cheesy goodness, there’s no shortage of creative options to satisfy your potato cravings.
Don’t forget to try the comforting mashed potato soup and the savory Shepherd’s Pie filling that will warm you up on chilly nights.
And for a crowd-pleasing side dish, indulge in the cheesy potato casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Get ready to take your leftover mashed potatoes to the next level!
Creative Potato Patties
To make creative potato patties, you can use your leftover mashed potatoes as a base and add various ingredients like cheese, herbs, and spices for extra flavor.
Start by taking your mashed potatoes and placing them in a mixing bowl.
Next, add in some shredded cheddar cheese for a gooey, melty surprise in every bite.
Sprinkle in some dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to give your patties a burst of freshness.
For an extra kick, add in some garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for added flavor.
Mix everything together until well combined.
Then, shape the mixture into patties and cook them in a skillet with a little oil until they are golden brown on both sides.
Serve them hot and enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness of your creative potato patties.
Loaded Potato Skins
Loaded potato skins are a delicious appetizer that you can easily make by scooping out the potato flesh and filling the skins with a heavenly combination of gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and flavorful green onions. These appetizers are perfect for parties or even just a cozy night at home.
Start by baking the potato skins until they are crispy and golden brown. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing shredded cheese, cooked and crumbled bacon, and finely chopped green onions.
Once the potato skins are ready, generously fill them with the cheese, bacon, and green onion mixture. Pop them back into the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
The result? A mouthwatering treat that will have everyone begging for more.
Cheesy Potato Casserole
I can’t resist the gooey and cheesy goodness of a cheesy potato casserole. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds.
Imagine a dish filled with layers of creamy mashed potatoes, smothered in a rich and velvety cheese sauce. The top is golden and crispy, while the inside is soft and oh-so-comforting.
With each bite, you can taste the flavors melding together in perfect harmony. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings.
Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or as the star of the show, this cheesy potato casserole is sure to be a hit. So go ahead, indulge in the ooey-gooey deliciousness and savor every bite. Your taste buds will thank you.
Mashed Potato Soup
With its creamy texture and hearty flavor, mashed potato soup is a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Imagine a bowl filled with velvety smooth soup, made from leftover mashed potatoes that have been transformed into something even more delicious.
As you take your first spoonful, you can taste the familiar flavors of garlic, butter, and herbs, all combined with the rich creaminess of the potatoes. The soup is thick and satisfying, perfect for a cozy night in or a chilly winter’s day.
You can top it with crispy bacon bits, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added indulgence. Mashed potato soup is not just a way to use up leftovers, but a delightful meal in itself.
Shepherd’s Pie Filling
The shepherd’s pie filling combines ground meat, vegetables, and savory gravy, making it a delicious and hearty dish. When you take a bite, the flavors meld together, creating a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more.
The ground meat, whether it be beef, lamb, or a combination of both, adds a rich and meaty flavor to the filling. The vegetables, like carrots, peas, and onions, provide a burst of freshness and a hint of sweetness. And the savory gravy, made from a mixture of broth, flour, and seasonings, ties everything together with its thick and comforting texture.
As you spoon the filling onto your plate, you can’t help but admire the colorful medley of ingredients. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as part of a shepherd’s pie, this filling is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul.
Potato Croquettes Recipe
To make potato croquettes, start by combining cooked and seasoned mashed potatoes with flour and an egg. This will create a dough-like consistency that can be easily shaped into small cylinders. The mashed potatoes should be smooth and creamy, with a hint of salt and pepper for added flavor.
Once the dough is formed, take small portions and roll them into cylinders, about two inches long. Dip the cylinders into beaten eggs, ensuring an even coating. Then, roll them in breadcrumbs to fully coat them.
Heat oil in a pan and fry the croquettes until golden brown on all sides. Serve them hot and crispy, with a side of tangy tomato sauce for dipping.
These potato croquettes are a delightful snack or appetizer. They are perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes in a delicious and creative way.
Creamy Potato Dumplings
Mix cooked and seasoned mashed potatoes with flour and an egg to create a dough-like consistency for shaping into small dumplings.
These creamy potato dumplings are a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. The flour helps bind the ingredients together, while the egg adds richness and helps the dumplings hold their shape.
Once the dough is ready, you can shape it into small balls or elongated shapes, like mini sausages. These dumplings can be boiled in salted water until they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through.
The result is a soft and pillowy texture, with a creamy interior that pairs perfectly with a rich gravy or sauce. These creamy potato dumplings are a comforting and satisfying addition to any meal.
Potato Pancakes Variations
When making potato pancakes, you can add various ingredients like shredded cheese, onions, or herbs to enhance the flavor. These additions not only bring out the natural taste of the potatoes but also add a delightful twist to your traditional recipe.
Imagine biting into a crispy pancake with gooey melted cheese oozing out, or savoring the aroma of caramelized onions as they blend perfectly with the potatoes. And let’s not forget the burst of flavors that fresh herbs like parsley or dill can bring to the dish.
Whether you’re looking for a savory or a more herby taste, experimenting with different ingredients in your potato pancakes can take them from ordinary to extraordinary. So go ahead, get creative, and make your pancakes truly unforgettable.
Stuffed Potato Balls
If you’re craving a flavorful appetizer, try making stuffed potato balls with a gooey cheese filling. These little bites of deliciousness are the perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.
Start by scooping out small portions of the mashed potatoes and shaping them into balls. Next, create a well in the center of each ball and fill it with your favorite cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even blue cheese all work beautifully.
Once the cheese is added, carefully seal the potato ball back up, ensuring that no cheese escapes during cooking. Fry the stuffed potato balls until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
The result is a heavenly combination of creamy potatoes and melty cheese that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Potato Gnocchi Recipe
To make potato gnocchi, start by boiling peeled potatoes until tender. Then, mash them until smooth and combine with flour and egg to form a dough.
Gnocchi are soft, pillowy dumplings that are a staple in Italian cuisine. The process of making gnocchi may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, you’ll be able to create these delicious pasta alternatives in no time.
The key to perfect gnocchi is to use the right amount of flour and to not overwork the dough. Once you have formed the dough, cut it into small pieces and roll them into little logs. To give the gnocchi its signature ridges, lightly press each piece with a fork.
Boil the gnocchi until they float to the surface, then serve with your favorite sauce and enjoy the homemade goodness.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a variety of mouthwatering options to make the most of your leftover mashed potatoes.
From loaded potato cakes to cheesy potato pancakes, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and make you forget you’re even eating leftovers.
Remember, leftovers are like hidden treasures waiting to be discovered and transformed into something new and delicious.
Just like a caterpillar turning into a beautiful butterfly, your mashed potatoes have the potential to become something extraordinary.
So get creative in the kitchen and let your culinary imagination soar!
Ben, a culinary enthusiast and owner of RelishedRecipes.com, shares his passion for food and cooking through delectable recipes and valuable tips. Ben delights in exploring international cuisines and inspiring home cooks on their culinary journeys.