Thanksgiving is a time for feasting, family, and, inevitably, a fridge full of delicious leftovers. While a classic “leftover sandwich” has its charm, sometimes you crave something new, something that transforms those beloved holiday flavors into an exciting new experience. And that’s exactly what Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites deliver! These delectable little mouthfuls are the perfect answer to “what to do with all this leftover mashed potato and stuffing?” They transform your holiday remnants into a crispy, savory, irresistible appetizer that’s far from boring. Get ready to elevate your post-Thanksgiving snacking game with this simple, yet incredibly satisfying recipe.
Key Ingredients for Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites
To create these irresistible bites, you’ll need the following ingredients, ideally sourced from your Thanksgiving feast leftovers:
- 2 cups (approx. 450g) leftover mashed potatoes: Ideally firm, not too watery. If your mashed potatoes are very loose, you might want to chill them thoroughly or add a tablespoon of flour or breadcrumbs to help bind them.
- 1 cup (approx. 150g) leftover Thanksgiving stuffing: Any type of stuffing works well here, whether it’s bread-based, cornbread, or even rice stuffing. Just make sure it’s cooled.
- 1 large egg: Lightly beaten, this acts as a crucial binder, ensuring your bites hold their shape.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped fresh chives or green onions: For a pop of fresh flavor and color. These are optional but highly recommended.
- 1/4 cup (approx. 25g) grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami kick and helps with browning. You can substitute with another hard, salty cheese like Pecorino Romano.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Complements the onion and adds a subtle garlicky aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground, to taste.
- Pinch of salt (optional): Only if your mashed potatoes and stuffing are unsalted or bland. Always taste before adding more salt.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for dredging): Helps create a crispier exterior. You can use gluten-free flour if needed.
- 1/2 cup (approx. 50g) panko breadcrumbs (for coating): Panko creates a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil (for frying): For pan-frying. You can also use cooking spray for baking.
- Optional dips for serving: Cranberry sauce, gravy, sour cream, or a sriracha mayo.
How to Make Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites
These Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites are incredibly easy to whip up, turning your holiday leftovers into a sensational appetizer in no time. This recipe is all about combining those delicious Thanksgiving flavors into a crispy, golden-brown package that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With a quick prep time and even quicker cook time, you can have these savory bites on the table in about 30 minutes, making them the perfect solution for busy post-holiday entertaining or a simple family snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes and stuffing. Use a fork or your hands to gently break up any large clumps of stuffing and ensure an even distribution.
- Add Flavor and Binder: To the potato and stuffing mixture, add the lightly beaten egg, chopped chives (or green onions), grated Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and an optional pinch of salt. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when rolled. If it seems too wet, add a tablespoon or two of flour or plain breadcrumbs until it reaches a manageable consistency.
- Form the Bites: Take small portions of the mixture, about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each, and roll them into compact balls or small cylindrical log shapes. Aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking. Place the formed bites on a plate or baking sheet.
- Dredge and Coat: Set up two shallow dishes. Put the all-purpose flour in one and the panko breadcrumbs in the other. Lightly dust each formed bite first with flour, shaking off any excess. Then, roll each flour-coated bite in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even and thorough coating. This double-coating method helps create that beautiful golden, crispy crust.
- Cook the Bites (Pan-Frying Method): Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or olive oil) in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the coated mashed potato stuffing bites into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Achieve Golden Perfection: Fry the bites for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy all over. The internal temperature should be heated through.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the golden-brown bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Baking Option (Healthier Alternative): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Arrange the coated bites in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and heated through. For extra crispiness, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve the Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as cranberry sauce, gravy, or a dollop of sour cream.
Why You’ll Love These Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites
You’ll absolutely adore these Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites for so many reasons! The main highlight is how they ingeniously transform humble Thanksgiving leftovers into a gourmet-style appetizer. Each bite is a harmonious blend of creamy mashed potatoes and savory, herb-infused stuffing, all encased in an incredibly satisfying crispy exterior. It’s a textural masterpiece! Beyond their deliciousness, these bites offer fantastic cost-saving benefits by giving your holiday remnants a second life, preventing food waste, and saving you money on new ingredients. The addition of fresh chives and grated Parmesan elevate the flavor profile, making these bites taste anything but “leftovers.”
These little morsels are a fantastic way to enjoy the essence of Thanksgiving in a whole new format, reimagines leftover turkey. They’re perfect for guests, game day, or a cozy family night. Don’t let those delicious holiday flavors go to waste – give these Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites a try and discover your new favorite post-holiday tradition. Your taste buds (and your wallet!) will thank you!
What to Serve Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites With
These versatile Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites are delicious enough to stand alone, but they truly shine when paired with complementary dips and sides. For a classic Thanksgiving callback, serve them with small bowls of warmed leftover gravy or a tangy cranberry sauce. A simple dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (for a lighter option) can add a lovely creamy contrast. If you’re looking for a bit of a kick, a spicy sriracha mayo or a honey mustard sauce would be fantastic. For a fuller appetizer spread, consider alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness, or even a small bowl of roasted vegetables for added texture and nutrition. For drinks, a light beer, a dry hard cider, or even a festive sparkling cranberry mocktail would pair wonderfully.
try also :
- Lentil and Sweet Potato Salad
- Cranberry Brie Bites
- Crispy Sweet Potato Bites
- Matcha Cake Recipe
- find more in Pinterest
Top Tips for Perfecting Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites
To ensure your Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites turn out perfectly crispy, flavorful, and structurally sound every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Cool Your Leftovers: Ensure both your mashed potatoes and stuffing are thoroughly chilled before mixing. Cold ingredients are much easier to handle and form into balls, and they’ll hold their shape better during cooking. Warm or room-temperature mixtures tend to be too sticky.
- Consistency is Key: If your mashed potatoes are very moist or loose, you might need to add a tablespoon or two of plain breadcrumbs or a little extra flour to the mixture to help it firm up. Conversely, if your stuffing and potatoes are very dry, you can add a tiny splash of milk or chicken broth to make it more pliable.
- Don’t Skimp on the Coating: The panko breadcrumbs are crucial for that ultimate crispy exterior. Press them firmly onto the formed bites to ensure a thick, even coating. This acts as a protective barrier and absorbs less oil during frying.
- Even Sizing: Try to make your bites roughly the same size. This ensures they cook evenly, and you won’t have some bits that are overcooked while others are still cold in the center.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When pan-frying, cook in batches. Overcrowding the skillet will lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy bites rather than crispy ones. Give them space!
- Air Fryer Option: For an even healthier and quicker cooking method, consider using an air fryer. Preheat to 375°F (190°C), lightly spray the bites with cooking spray, and air fry for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Flavor Boosts: Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings. A pinch of smoked paprika, a dash of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a little grated cheese from your holiday cheese board can add unique twists.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To savor these delicious Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites beyond the initial serving, proper storage and reheating are key. Cooled leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Arrange the cooked and cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (this prevents them from sticking together). Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will keep well for up to 2-3 months.
When reheating, for optimal crispiness, it’s best to avoid the microwave. If frozen, you can reheat them directly from frozen. Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes (if refrigerated) or 20-25 minutes (if frozen), until heated through and crispy. You can also re-crisp them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes. Reheating in a skillet with a little oil over medium heat is also an option for immediate crispness.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – the ultimate solution for transforming your post-Thanksgiving bounty into an exciting, crowd-pleasing appetizer! These Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites are more than just a clever way to use up leftovers; they’re a testament to how a little creativity in the kitchen can breathe new life into familiar flavors. With their irresistible crispy exterior and savory, comforting interior, they offer a delightful bite-sized experience that celebrates the very best of your holiday feast. Don’t let those precious leftovers languish – give them the star treatment they deserve and whip up a batch of these glorious bites. You (and your grateful guests) will be so glad you did!
Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites FAQs
- Can I use fresh mashed potatoes and stuffing for this recipe?
Absolutely! While designed for leftovers, you can certainly make fresh mashed potatoes and stuffing if you want to make these bites at other times of the year. Just ensure they are cooled down before mixing. - My mixture is too sticky to form balls. What should I do?
This often happens if your mashed potatoes are too wet or not cold enough. Try adding a tablespoon or two of plain breadcrumbs or all-purpose flour to the mixture. Pop it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to firm up before trying again. - Can I deep fry these instead of pan-frying or baking?
Yes, you can deep fry them! Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and heated through. Be careful not to overcrowd the fryer. - Are these Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites gluten-free?
Not as written. To make them gluten-free, ensure your stuffing is gluten-free, use gluten-free all-purpose flour for dredging, and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for coating. - What if I don’t have chives or green onions?
You can omit them or substitute with other fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or a tiny pinch of dried sage or thyme. - Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes! You can form and coat the bites, then refrigerate them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap for up to 24 hours. Cook just before serving. You can also freeze them uncooked, then bake or fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. - Are there any other cheeses I can use?
Certainly! While Parmesan is great, you could also use grated sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.
Mashed Potato Stuffing Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes and stuffing. Use a fork or your hands to gently break up any large clumps of stuffing and ensure an even distribution.2 cups leftover mashed potatoes, 1 cup leftover Thanksgiving stuffing
- Add Flavor and Binder: To the potato and stuffing mixture, add the lightly beaten egg, chopped chives (or green onions), grated Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and an optional pinch of salt. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when rolled. If it seems too wet, add a tablespoon or two of flour or plain breadcrumbs until it reaches a manageable consistency.1 large egg, 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives or green onions, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, Pinch salt
- Form the Bites: Take small portions of the mixture, about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each, and roll them into compact balls or small cylindrical log shapes. Aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking. Place the formed bites on a plate or baking sheet.
- Dredge and Coat: Set up two shallow dishes. Put the all-purpose flour in one and the panko breadcrumbs in the other. Lightly dust each formed bite first with flour, shaking off any excess. Then, roll each flour-coated bite in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even and thorough coating.2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cook the Bites (Pan-Frying Method): Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or olive oil) in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the coated mashed potato stuffing bites into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary. Fry the bites for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy all over. The internal temperature should be heated through.2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the golden-brown bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.