18 Delicious Leftover Mashed Potato Recipes Creative

Got a bowl of leftover mashed potatoes sitting in your fridge? Don’t let them go to waste! Transform those creamy spuds into something spectacular with our roundup of 18 Delicious Leftover Mashed Potato Recipes. From cozy comfort foods to quick weeknight dinners, these creative ideas will have you looking at leftovers in a whole new light. Let’s turn those mashed potatoes into your next favorite meal!

Mashed Potato Pancakes

Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden pancakes that are perfect for a cozy breakfast or a savory side dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten egg, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh chives, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture for each pancake, flatten slightly, and place in the skillet.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with the remaining mixture, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.

These pancakes stand out with their crispy edges and fluffy centers, offering a delightful contrast in every bite. The Parmesan and chives add a savory depth that elevates the humble mashed potato.

Tip: For extra crispiness, let the pancakes sit for a minute on paper towels after frying to absorb any excess oil.

Leftover Mashed Potato Bread

Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into something extraordinary with this fluffy, comforting bread that’s perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Stir in mashed potatoes, 2 cups of flour, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining flour until the dough pulls away from the bowl’s sides.
4. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
6. Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, and place in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush loaf with melted butter and bake for 35 minutes until golden brown.
8. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

This bread boasts a uniquely tender crumb and subtle potato flavor, making it a standout side or toast base. The mashed potatoes add moisture, ensuring it stays fresh longer than typical bread.

Tip: For a golden crust, brush the loaf with butter again right after baking.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole

Transform your mashed potatoes into a show-stopping side with this Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole, perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family nights.

Ingredients

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, green onions, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are lightly golden.

The crispy cheese topping contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes, making every bite a delightful mix of textures.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Mashed Potato Dumplings

These Mashed Potato Dumplings are the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with the satisfying bite of dumplings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the cooled mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, and black pepper until a dough forms.
2. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a log and cut into 1-inch pieces.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the dumplings in and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they float to the top.
4. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked dumplings and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Stir in the chopped parsley and serve warm.

The secret to these dumplings is the crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, fluffy center, making them irresistible. Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes!

Tip: For extra flavor, try adding grated Parmesan cheese to the dough before shaping.

Potato Croquettes

These crispy Potato Croquettes are the perfect bite-sized comfort food, with a golden exterior and a creamy, flavorful center that’s sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten (for coating)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, green onions, 1 beaten egg, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small cylinders or balls, about 2 inches in size.
3. Place the flour, 1 beaten egg, and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow dishes. Dredge each croquette in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat to 350°F. Fry the croquettes in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

The magic of these croquettes lies in their contrast—crispy on the outside, yet irresistibly soft and cheesy inside. Serve them hot for a truly indulgent experience.

Tip: For an extra crunch, try panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.

Mashed Potato Waffles

Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, golden breakfast treat with these Mashed Potato Waffles. Perfect for a lazy weekend morning or a creative brunch option!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, for greasing the waffle iron

Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat and lightly brush with vegetable oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten egg, all-purpose flour, grated cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
3. Scoop about 1/2 cup of the potato mixture onto the preheated waffle iron, spreading it slightly. Close the lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the waffles are golden and crispy.
4. Carefully remove the waffle from the iron and repeat with the remaining mixture, greasing the iron as needed between batches.

These Mashed Potato Waffles surprise with their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, making them a delightful twist on traditional waffles. Serve with sour cream or applesauce for an extra flavor boost!

Tip: For extra crispiness, let the waffles cook a minute longer until deeply golden.

Loaded Mashed Potato Balls

These Loaded Mashed Potato Balls are the ultimate comfort food twist, combining creamy mashed potatoes with crispy bacon and melted cheese for a bite-sized delight.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon, green onions, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, then dip each ball into the beaten egg and roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the potato balls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

The magic of these potato balls lies in their crispy exterior giving way to a gooey, cheesy center, making them irresistible at any gathering.

Tip: For an extra crunch, try panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.

Potato and Cheese Pierogi

There’s something incredibly comforting about biting into a tender pierogi filled with creamy potatoes and melted cheese. This recipe brings that cozy feeling right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups mashed potatoes, cooled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter, for frying
• 1/2 cup chopped onions, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add 1 large egg, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1/4 cup softened butter. Knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
2. On a floured surface, roll the dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch circles.
3. In a bowl, combine 2 cups mashed potatoes, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Place a tablespoon of filling on each dough circle, fold over, and pinch edges to seal.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pierogi in batches for 3-4 minutes until they float to the top. Remove with a slotted spoon.
5. In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Fry boiled pierogi until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Serve hot, optionally topped with chopped onions. The contrast of the crispy exterior with the soft, cheesy interior makes these pierogi irresistibly good.

Tip: For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder to the potato and cheese filling.

Mashed Potato Shepherd’s Pie

Transform your classic shepherd’s pie with a creamy mashed potato topping that’s sure to comfort any soul.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup diced onions
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared with butter and milk)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onions, carrots, peas, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
5. Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes until the topping is golden and the edges are bubbly.

The crispy cheese layer atop the fluffy mashed potatoes creates a delightful contrast with the savory beef filling beneath.

Tip: For an extra golden top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Potato Gnocchi

There’s something incredibly comforting about homemade potato gnocchi, with its pillowy texture and rich flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe will guide you through making these delightful dumplings from scratch.

Ingredients

• 2 large russet potatoes (about 1 pound)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pierce the potatoes all over with a fork, then bake for about 1 hour until tender. Let cool slightly, then peel and mash.
2. On a clean surface, make a mound with the mashed potatoes. Create a well in the center, add the egg, salt, and pepper, then gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4 pieces. Roll each into a 1/2-inch-thick rope, then cut into 1-inch pieces. Optionally, roll each piece over a fork to create ridges.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon.
5. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cooked gnocchi and sauté until golden, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

The secret to these gnocchi’s light texture lies in the balance of flour and potato—just enough to hold together without becoming dense. Serve them with your favorite sauce or simply enjoy with butter and cheese for a truly authentic experience.

Tip: For extra fluffy gnocchi, bake the potatoes instead of boiling them to reduce moisture.

Mashed Potato Pizza Crust

Who knew your favorite comfort food could double as a pizza crust? This Mashed Potato Pizza Crust is a game-changer for carb lovers everywhere.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a 10-inch circle about 1/4-inch thick.
4. Brush the top with olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
5. Let the crust cool for 5 minutes before adding your favorite toppings and returning to the oven to melt.

The magic of this crust lies in its crispy edges and fluffy center, offering a delightful contrast with every bite. Perfect for those nights when you can’t decide between pizza and potatoes.

Tip: For an extra crispy crust, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Potato Stuffed Peppers

These Potato Stuffed Peppers are a hearty, comforting dish that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the creamy texture of mashed potatoes, all baked to perfection.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared with butter and milk)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
2. In a bowl, mix the mashed potatoes with 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder until well combined.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the potato mixture, then drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese on top.
4. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

The contrast between the soft, cheesy potatoes and the crisp, sweet pepper makes every bite a delightful experience.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the stuffed peppers for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Mashed Potato Biscuits

Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into something extraordinary with these fluffy, buttery Mashed Potato Biscuits. They’re the perfect side to any meal, offering a delightful twist on the classic biscuit.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup cold mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
3. Cut in 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in 1 cup cold mashed potatoes, then gradually add 1/2 cup buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, knead lightly, and pat to 1-inch thickness. Cut out biscuits with a 2-inch cutter.
6. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.

These biscuits boast a uniquely tender interior and a crispy exterior, thanks to the mashed potatoes. They’re a clever way to repurpose leftovers without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Tip: For extra flaky layers, fold the dough over itself a few times before cutting out the biscuits.

Potato and Onion Patties

These Potato and Onion Patties are the perfect blend of crispy and tender, making them a hit for breakfast or as a savory side dish.

Ingredients

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes and chopped onion. Squeeze out any excess moisture with your hands or a clean kitchen towel.
2. Add the beaten egg, flour, salt, and black pepper to the potato mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, scoop 1/4 cup of the mixture for each patty, flatten slightly, and place in the skillet.
4. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

The secret to these patties is the contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, flavorful interior, achieved by squeezing out the moisture before cooking.

Tip: For an extra crispy edge, press the patties thinner before frying.

Mashed Potato Soup

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy mashed potato soup to warm you up from the inside out. This recipe turns your favorite side dish into a comforting main course with just a few simple steps.

Ingredients

• 4 cups mashed potatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup chopped chives
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the 1/4 cup butter over medium heat.
2. Add the 4 cups mashed potatoes and 4 cups chicken broth to the pot, stirring until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.
4. Continue to cook on low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through and slightly thickened.
5. Garnish with the 1/4 cup chopped chives before serving.

The magic of this soup lies in its velvety texture, achieved by blending the creaminess of mashed potatoes with the richness of heavy cream and sour cream. It’s a bowl of comfort that feels like a hug in every spoonful.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try topping your soup with crispy bacon bits or shredded cheddar cheese.

Potato and Bacon Fritters

These Potato and Bacon Fritters are the perfect blend of crispy and savory, making them an irresistible side or snack that’s sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated potatoes
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, crumbled bacon, all-purpose flour, beaten egg, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the skillet, flattening slightly with the back of the spoon.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Serve warm and enjoy the crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior of these fritters, with the smoky bacon adding a delightful depth of flavor.

Tip: For extra crispiness, press the fritters slightly thinner before frying and avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Mashed Potato Stuffed Mushrooms

These Mashed Potato Stuffed Mushrooms are the ultimate comfort food bite, combining creamy mashed potatoes with earthy mushrooms for a dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 12 large white mushrooms, stems removed and reserved
• 1 cup prepared mashed potatoes
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. Finely chop the reserved mushroom stems and mix them with the mashed potatoes, 1 tbsp of the melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
3. Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the mushroom caps, mounding it slightly.
4. Brush the remaining 1 tbsp of melted butter over the stuffed mushrooms and bake for 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are lightly golden.
5. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

The contrast between the crispy mushroom edges and the creamy potato filling makes these bites irresistibly good, perfect for when you want to elevate your appetizer game.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the stuffed mushrooms for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Potato and Spinach Quiche

This Potato and Spinach Quiche is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for brunch or a light dinner, combining creamy eggs with earthy spinach and tender potatoes.

Ingredients

• 1 pie crust (9-inch), homemade or store-bought
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced into small cubes
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Press the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and potato, cooking until the potato is tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Spread the potato and spinach mixture evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Pour the egg mixture over the top, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is lightly golden. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.

The secret to this quiche’s rich flavor is the combination of creamy eggs with the slight crunch of potatoes and the freshness of spinach, all wrapped in a flaky crust.

Tip: For a crispier crust, blind bake it for 10 minutes before adding the filling.

Conclusion

We hope these 18 creative leftover mashed potato recipes inspire you to turn those leftovers into something extraordinary! From cozy comfort foods to innovative dishes, there’s something for every taste. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for your next kitchen adventure. Happy cooking!

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