Leftover instant mashed potatoes can absolutely be saved for later use. With proper storage, they will keep for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. There are also several different ways to reheat and serve leftover instant mashed potatoes so they taste fresh and delicious again.
Can You Refrigerate Leftover Instant Mashed Potatoes?
Yes, you can refrigerate leftover instant mashed potatoes. It’s important to transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. This prevents bacterial growth. Leftover instant mashed potatoes will stay fresh in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Tips for Refrigerating Leftover Mashed Potatoes
- Allow mashed potatoes to cool completely before refrigerating, about 1 hour.
- Transfer to an airtight container or ziplock bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Store in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
- Use refrigerated mashed potatoes within 3-5 days.
Can You Freeze Leftover Instant Mashed Potatoes?
Freezing is another great way to save leftover instant mashed potatoes. They will keep for 2-3 months in the freezer.
To freeze instant mashed potatoes:
- Allow mashed potatoes to cool completely, about 1 hour.
- Transfer to an airtight freezer bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
- Lay bag flat in the freezer to freeze quickly.
- Once frozen, mashed potatoes can be stored upright in the freezer.
- Label bag with contents and date.
- Use frozen mashed potatoes within 2-3 months for best quality.
Tips for Freezing Mashed Potatoes
- Freeze mashed potatoes in single serving portions for easy reheating.
- Add a little extra milk or butter before freezing for creamier results after reheating.
- Do not freeze mashed potatoes with added ingredients like cheese, bacon, or sour cream.
How to Reheat Leftover Instant Mashed Potatoes
Leftover instant mashed potatoes reheat beautifully. Here are some of the best ways to reheat them:
On the Stovetop
Reheating the mashed potatoes on the stovetop with a little milk and butter will make them taste freshly made again. Simply heat them in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or cream and a pat of butter to moisten and creamify as needed.
In the Microwave
The microwave provides a quick and easy way to reheat leftover mashed potatoes. Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring halfway through. Stir in milk or cream and butter after heating.
In the Oven
For a larger batch of mashed potatoes, spread them in a baking dish and reheat uncovered in a 300°F oven for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally for even heating. Stir in additional milk or cream once warmed through.
Serving Ideas for Leftover Mashed Potatoes
Don’t limit yourself to plain reheated mashed potatoes. Get creative with ways to turn leftover spuds into an entirely new dish!
Fried Mashed Potato Patties
Form leftover mashed potatoes into patties and pan fry in butter or oil until browned and crisp. Top with ketchup for fun potato pancakes.
Mashed Potato Bowls
Scoop room temperature mashed potatoes into a bowl. Top with browned ground meat, veggies, cheese, bacon, etc. for a hearty meal.
Mashed Potato Casserole
Combine mashed potatoes with cheese, sour cream, bacon, and green onions. Transfer to a casserole dish and bake until hot and bubbly.
Twice-Baked Potatoes
Scoop cooled mashed potatoes into empty baked potato skins. Top with cheese, bacon, chives, etc. Bake until cheese is melted.
Garlic Mashed Potato Pizza
Spread mashed potatoes on a prepared pizza crust. Top with garlic, mozzarella cheese, and basil. Bake until cheese melts.
FAQs
How long do leftover instant mashed potatoes last in the fridge?
Properly stored, leftover instant mashed potatoes will keep for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Can you freeze leftover instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes freeze very well for 2-3 months. Allow to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat instant mashed potatoes?
Stovetop and oven heating work best to reheat instant mashed potatoes and restore their creamy, fluffy texture.
Can you add milk when reheating instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, adding a splash of milk or cream when reheating instant mashed potatoes helps restore moisture and creaminess.
How do you keep instant mashed potatoes from drying out?
Store mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, add extra milk or butter to help restore moisture.
Conclusion
With proper storage in the refrigerator or freezer, leftover instant mashed potatoes can be kept for later use. Allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerated mashed potatoes will keep for 3-5 days. Frozen, they last for 2-3 months. Reheat leftovers on the stovetop, in the oven, or microwave for fresh, creamy mashed potatoes again. Feel free to get creative and use them in fun new dishes too!