Hey, fellow potato lover—be honest, how many times have you stared at that container of leftover mashed potatoes in the fridge, wondering if they’ll ever get eaten before they go sad and gray? I get it. We all go overboard on holidays or Sunday dinners because, let’s face it, mashed potatoes are life. But reheating them plain for the third day in a row? Yawn.
Good news: Those leftovers are gold. With just a few tweaks, you can turn them into crispy, comforting dishes that feel totally brand new. Who knew leftover mashed potatoes could star in everything from breakfast to dinner? These 7 recipes are my go-tos—they’re quick, forgiving, and seriously delicious. Trust me, I’ve tested them all (sometimes on purpose by making extra mash 😉).
Ready to rescue those spuds? Let’s jump in.
1. Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes
These are basically potato heaven in patty form. Crunchy outside, creamy inside, with melty cheese—perfect for breakfast with eggs or as a side. Why settle for boring reheats when you can have this crunch?
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold works best)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup shredded cheddar (or whatever cheese you have)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for coating)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil or butter for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the mashed potatoes, egg, cheese, flour, green onions, salt, and pepper in a bowl until combined.
- Shape into patties (about ¼ cup each)—if sticky, chill them for 10 minutes.
- Coat lightly in extra flour.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium. Fry patties 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Why You’ll Love It
These disappear fast in my house. The cheese gets all oozy, and that crisp edge? Chef’s kiss. I once added bacon bits—game changer. Pair with sour cream or ketchup. So much better than plain leftovers!
2. Classic Shepherd’s Pie Reloaded
Who doesn’t crave a cozy shepherd’s pie on a chilly night? Use your leftovers as the topping for a hearty meat-and-veggie base. It’s comfort food that feels fancy but comes together easy.
Ingredients
- 2-3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- Worcestershire sauce (a dash)
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the meat in a skillet, then add onion and carrots. Cook until soft.
- Stir in tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire, peas, and seasonings. Simmer 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a baking dish.
- Spread mashed potatoes on top—rough it up with a fork for crispy bits.
- Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Why You’ll Love It
This one’s a family favorite because it’s a full meal in one dish. The potatoes get that baked crisp on top while staying creamy underneath. Pro tip: Some folks use turkey leftovers—works great post-holiday. Pure hug-in-a-bowl vibes.
3. Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Turn those mashed potatoes into a creamy, dreamy soup loaded with all the baked potato fixings. Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 4 cups chicken or veggie broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Green onions or chives for topping
- Sour cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Whisk mashed potatoes with broth in a pot over medium heat until smooth.
- Stir in milk and half the cheese. Simmer until thickened.
- Season to taste.
- Ladle into bowls and top with remaining cheese, bacon, green onions, and sour cream.
Why You’ll Love It
It’s like eating a loaded baked potato but in spoonable form—rich, cheesy, smoky from the bacon. I love how the leftovers make it extra thick without much effort. Healthier swap: Use turkey bacon if you’re watching calories. So comforting on a cold day!
4. Fluffy Potato Pancakes (Latke-Style)
These aren’t your average pancakes—they’re savory, crispy, and addictive. Great with applesauce or sour cream. Breakfast, lunch, or snack? Yes please.
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Salt, pepper, and onion powder
- Oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine everything in a bowl.
- Heat oil in a skillet.
- Drop spoonfuls of mixture and flatten slightly.
- Fry 3 minutes per side until golden.
- Serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love It
Crispy edges, soft centers—pure bliss. I tried adding herbs once and regretted nothing. They’re forgiving if your mash has garlic or butter already. Who needs plain toast when you have these?
5. Cheesy Mashed Potato Croquettes
Bite-sized fried goodness with a surprise cheese center. These feel indulgent but use up leftovers like a champ. Appetizer or side—your call.
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella for stringy pull)
- 1 egg
- Breadcrumbs for coating
- Oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix potatoes with half the cheese and egg.
- Form balls around a cube of remaining cheese.
- Roll in breadcrumbs.
- Chill 15 minutes.
- Fry until golden, about 3 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
That cheese pull when you bite in? Worth it. They’re fun to make with kids too. I once used ham bits inside—holiday leftover win. Crispy outside, molten inside. Dangerous how fast they vanish.
13 Delicious Ways To Use Up Leftover Mashed Potatoes
6. Savory Potato Waffles
Pop your mash in a waffle iron for crispy, golden waffles. Top with fried eggs or gravy. Breakfast upgrade alert!
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup flour
- ½ cup shredded cheese
- Seasonings to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix all ingredients.
- Preheat waffle iron and grease well.
- Spoon mixture in and cook 5-7 minutes until crisp.
- Top as desired.
Why You’ll Love It
The waffle iron gives perfect crisp without deep frying. Genius, right? I’ve loaded them with bacon and chives—restaurant-worthy. Quick and fun twist on leftovers.
7. Baked Mashed Potato Puffs
Light, cheesy bites baked to perfection. Like tater tots but better—and easier with leftovers.
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup shredded cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan
- Chives or bacon (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix potatoes, eggs, most cheese, and add-ins.
- Scoop into mini muffin tin.
- Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes until puffed and golden.
Why You’ll Love It
They’re poppable and adorable. Great for parties or meal prep. I swapped in feta once—tangy surprise! Oven-baked means less mess, more flavor.
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