Recipes  

What to Do With Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Did you make too much mashed potatoes to go with your holiday turkey? Here are a few original ideas on using your excess mash, no matter the amount left over. Whether in a sauce, doughnuts or a grilled cheese sandwich, they’ll bring texture wherever they go.

1. Make potato croquettes

These are usually the first option when it comes to thinking up ways to use leftover mashed potatoes. Whether you go with potato and ham or even potato and tuna (with a pickle sauce), you certainly won’t be lacking in ideas.

2. Whip up a grilled cheese sandwich

Yes, we’re serious about mashed potatoes in a grilled cheese. Warm ⅓ cup of the potatoes in the microwave and place them between two slices of bread, which has already been stacked with cheese and other fixings. The final grilled result is a contrast in textures and brimming with comfort.

3. Thicken a sauce

Thanks to the starch they possess, mashed potatoes are perfect for thickening a sauce that’s too liquidy. Only have a bit of mash left? All you really need is a tablespoon to get the job done.

4. Make some doughnuts

Both to save money and to achieve soft, fluffy doughnuts, our grandmothers used to incorporate mashed potatoes into their dough. We did the same in this doughnut recipe, as well as in our mashed potato cinnamon rolls. It goes without saying, use a mash that hasn’t been seasoned. And if it’s too liquidy, you can add some flour to the dough.

5. Try your hand at aligot

What’s aligot? It’s a traditional French recipe made with mashed potatoes and cheese, and is absolutely decadent. Try this version with cheese curds for an aligot that’s smooth and creamy.

By using your mashed potato leftovers, you get to avoid food waste while coming up with a few new and tasty dishes. For more ideas, check out our selection of recipes: