Use the Leftover Potatoes

Leftovers sound so dull!  But if you are creative, hungry, and in a hurry, using leftovers can be a lifesaver.

1. Leftover potatoes are especially easy to incorporate into a new dish. 

1. Mashed potatoes can be converted into potato salad.  Just add a hard cooked egg or two, some chopped onion, pickle relish, and mustard or mayo to taste. 

2. Use leftover mashed potatoes to make potato pancakes.  To one cup of mashed potatoes, more or less, add 1 egg, 2 tablespoons of flour, 2 tablespoons of chopped onion, a sprinkle of garlic power, and 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese.  Everything after the flour is optional.  The mixture should be thick but soft.  Drop by tablespoons into a hot, greased skillet.  Turn when the bottom is brown.   Serve for breakfast with bacon, eggs, and applesauce, or use your imagination.

3. Leftover chunky, red potatoes are a great start for a casserole.  Be creative.  Add any cooked vegetables or meat you choose.  Top with seasoned bread crumbs.  Bake at 350 degrees until bubbly.  Add grated cheese and bake five more minutes.  Serve with garlic toast or rolls.

4. Use leftover mashed potatoes to thicken soup.  Add hot liquid from the soup pot to cold mashed potatoes.  Stir until the potatoes are soft and lump free.  Add to soup and cook until thickened.

These suggestions assume that you have a small amount of leftovers--a cup or less.  Adjust your uses and ingredients as you see fit.  After all, you are being frugal.