Leftover Mashed Potato Pancakes

A Busy Mom's Secret Weapon: Leftover Mashed Potato Pancakes

Let's be honest, moms (and dads!) are always looking for ways to stretch a meal, minimize food waste, and most importantly, save time. Between school runs, work deadlines, and all the other demands on our time, who really wants to spend hours in the kitchen? That's why I'm sharing my absolute favorite way to use up leftover mashed potatoes: mashed potato pancakes!

These aren't your grandma's potato pancakes (although I'm sure hers were delicious too!). This recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly versatile. I discovered it through a friend, and it's become a staple in our house. It's a lifesaver when you have those leftover mashed potatoes staring you down from the fridge after a big Sunday roast or a holiday feast. Instead of letting them go to waste, transform them into crispy, golden-brown pancakes that the entire family will devour.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. The base is simply mashed potatoes, an egg to bind it all together, a little flour for texture, and some seasoning. From there, the possibilities are endless! I love adding finely chopped onion or chives for a little extra zing, and a sprinkle of cheese never hurts either. It's the perfect way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters. And the best part? The cooking time is minimal. These pancakes cook up quickly in a skillet, and you can have a delicious, comforting meal on the table in minutes.

Serving Suggestions: While these pancakes are delicious on their own, they’re even better with a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of applesauce. My kids love them with a side of bacon or sausage. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread. The possibilities really are endless!

Tips and Tricks:

• Don't overmix the batter: A little bit of lumps is okay. Overmixing can make the pancakes tough.
• Adjust the flour as needed: If the batter is too thin, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Get creative with add-ins: Experiment with different herbs, spices, and cheeses to create your own unique pancake flavor combinations. Shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, or even some leftover roasted vegetables work beautifully.
• Don't overcrowd the pan: Give each pancake enough space to brown evenly. If you overcrowd the pan, the pancakes will steam instead of frying.
• Keep warm: As you cook the pancakes, keep the finished ones warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until all the pancakes are cooked.

This simple recipe is more than just a way to use leftover mashed potatoes; it's a testament to resourcefulness and deliciousness. It’s a quick and easy way to put a tasty and satisfying meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. So next time you have those leftover mashed potatoes, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!

I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine. It’s the perfect example of how even the simplest ingredients can create something truly special, especially when you’re short on time and need a quick and easy meal. Happy cooking!

Step-by-step

• Mix mashed potatoes, egg, flour, salt, pepper, garlic, and any optional ingredients, into mashed potatoes.
• Preheat skillet and add a couple of tablespoons of Crisco shortening or oil.
• Make sure the mixture is not too thin.
• Pour 1/4 cup batter into hot pan; brown on both sides.
• Enjoy with sour cream or applesauce.