Thanksgiving Leftovers: The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Thanksgiving is a time for abundance, and no Thanksgiving feast is complete without a generous serving of mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole. However, it’s not uncommon to have leftover potatoes after the big meal. Don’t let those creamy, comforting spuds go to waste! Below we’ll explore creative ways to repurpose Thanksgiving potato leftovers and answer the question on everyone’s mind: can you freeze mashed potatoes?

Recipes to Transform Thanksgiving Potato Leftovers

Potato Pancakes:

Turn those leftover mashed potatoes into crispy potato pancakes. Simply mix the potatoes with some flour, egg, and seasonings, form them into patties, and pan-fry until golden brown. Serve with sour cream or applesauce for a delightful snack or side dish.

Loaded Potato Soup:​

Leftover mashed potatoes can be the base for a creamy and hearty loaded potato soup. Add bacon, cheese, chives, and any other toppings you desire for a satisfying post-Thanksgiving meal.

Potato and Turkey Casserole:

Combine leftover mashed potatoes with diced turkey, gravy, and vegetables to create a comforting casserole. Top it with breadcrumbs or cheese for a crispy finish.

Shepherd’s Pie:

Blend your leftover mashed potatoes and stuffing to create a thick batter. Pour it into a waffle iron for a unique twist on breakfast or brunch. Top with cranberry sauce or leftover gravy.

Potato and Stuffing Waffles:​

Use mashed potatoes to make the perfect topping for a shepherd’s pie. Layer the leftover turkey or any other leftover meat and vegetables you have, and then cover it with the mashed potatoes before baking.

Sweet Potato Pancakes:​

Sweet potato casserole leftovers can be turned into delectable pancakes by mixing them with some flour, eggs, and spices. Drizzle with maple syrup for a tasty breakfast treat.

Can You Freeze Thanksgiving Potato Leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze Thanksgiving potato leftovers, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Cool First: Allow the leftovers to cool to room temperature before freezing. Hot food can raise the freezer’s temperature and potentially affect the quality of other frozen items.
• Portion Control: Consider portioning the leftovers into meal-sized portions. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need.
• Use Airtight Containers: Store the leftovers in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
• Label and Date: Always label the containers with the contents and date of freezing to keep track of how long they’ve been in the freezer.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Thanksgiving potato leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for the best results. Microwaving is also an option, but it may affect the texture.

Thanksgiving potato leftovers are a delicious gift that keeps on giving. With a little creativity and these recipe ideas, you can turn them into mouthwatering dishes that will delight your taste buds. And if you find yourself with more leftovers than you can handle, remember that freezing them is a convenient option for enjoying Thanksgiving flavors well beyond the holiday season. So, the next time you’re wondering what to do with those extra potatoes, turn to these recipes and freezing tips to make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers.

Cheesy Potato Herb Pull Apart Bread

Irish Potato Pancakes

Holiday Cupcakes

Thanksgiving Shepherds Pie