The age-old problem: what to do with leftover mashed potatoes? I mean, you can only reheat them so many times before they start to feel like a sad, congealed mess. But fear not, friends! I’ve got the solution right here: leftover mashed potato recipes that will breathe new life into those spuds. And the best part? They’re ridiculously easy to make and are perfect for using up those deep fried potatoes you’ve been craving.
I’m talking crispy, cheesy, indulgent bites that will make you wonder how you ever lived without them. So, if you’re ready to level up your appetizers from leftovers game, keep reading! From loaded potato bites to creative finger food ideas, I’ve got you covered. And the best part? These recipes are so versatile, you can serve them as a side dish, snack, or even as a fun twist on traditional finger food.
A Brief History of Leftover Mashed Potato Recipes
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about the history of leftover mashed potato recipes. I mean, who doesn’t love a good story about food? It’s amazing how something as simple as leftover mashed potatoes can be transformed into a delicious, crispy treat. And the best part? It’s a great way to reduce food waste and get creative in the kitchen.
Fried Mashed Potato Balls
This recipe is a total game-changer, folks! Imagine crispy, golden balls filled with fluffy mashed potatoes, cheese, and beef. Yes, please!
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled beef
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, beef, and egg. Mix until well combined.
2. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms.
3. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the potato balls in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Remove the fried potato balls from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Why You’ll Love It
These fried mashed potato balls are the perfect appetizer from leftovers. They’re easy to make, delicious, and can be customized with your favorite toppings, like sour cream or chives. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and reduce food waste.
Loaded Potato Bites
These bite-sized treats are like a party in your mouth! Imagine a crispy potato skin filled with cheese, beef, and scallions. Yum!
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled beef
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, beef, and scallions. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms.
4. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Brush the tops with egg wash and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
Why You’ll Love It
These loaded potato bites are a fun twist on traditional finger food. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for snacking on the go. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and reduce food waste.
Mashed Potato Cakes
These crispy cakes are a staple in my household, and for good reason! They’re easy to make, delicious, and can be served as a side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, and scallions. Mix until well combined.
2. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms.
3. Use your hands to shape the dough into small patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry the potato cakes in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Why You’ll Love It
These mashed potato cakes are a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and reduce food waste. They’re also customizable, so feel free to add your favorite toppings, like sour cream or chives.
Mashed Potato Fritters
These fritters are a fun twist on traditional deep fried potatoes. They’re crispy, cheesy, and perfect for snacking on the go!
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, and scallions. Mix until well combined.
2. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms.
3. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the fritters in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Why You’ll Love It
These mashed potato fritters are a delicious and easy way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. They’re also customizable, so feel free to add your favorite toppings, like sour cream or chives.
In conclusion, these leftover mashed potato recipes are a must-try for anyone looking to breathe new life into their leftover spuds. From crispy fried mashed potato balls to loaded potato bites and mashed potato cakes, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? They’re all easy to make, delicious, and perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the process of transforming those leftover mashed potatoes into something truly amazing!
