19 Leftover Baked Potato Recipes

From Yukon to Russet potatoes to red potatoes, having leftover baked potato recipes in your arsenal is necessary to reduce waste and pinch pennies in your kitchen. 

Ah, the humble baked potato—a staple of comfort cuisine that satisfies every time. But what happens when you’re left with more than you can consume, and your counter is graced with a bounty of leftover baked potatoes? Worry not! These treasures offer a golden opportunity to elevate yesterday’s side dishes into an array of new, scrumptious meals.

With just a handful of complementary ingredients and a sprinkling of culinary flair, your leftover baked potatoes can metamorphose into something truly special. From a robust baked potato hash to kickstart your morning, to a soul-warming potato soup for those chilly evenings, the possibilities are virtually endless.

So if a surplus of potatoes is what you find yourself with after a lavish dinner gathering, or if you simply couldn’t resist stocking up on those tempting russets, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together an inspiring list of recipes designed to give your leftover baked potatoes a second, delectable life. Get ready to ignite your taste buds! The bonus? Most of these are also delicious gluten-free side dishes!

Leftover Baked Potato Recipes

Twice-Baked Potatoes

Ah, the Twice-Baked Potato—think of it as the baked potato’s glamorous cousin, dressed up and ready for a night on the town. The beauty of this recipe lies in its layered complexity, giving you a soft, fluffy potato on the inside and a crisped, seasoned exterior. Begin with your leftover baked potatoes as the base, hollowing them out to create the perfect vessel. Then, blend the scooped-out potato with ingredients like sour cream, cheddar cheese, and chives before spooning the mixture back into the potato skins. A second stint in the oven results in a dish that’s both rich and comforting, yet sophisticated enough to be a stand-alone entrée or a star side dish.

Potato Salad

Potato salad is a versatile classic that has graced countless picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. When starting with leftover baked potatoes, you’re already one step ahead, as the baking process lends a delightful, fluffy texture that effortlessly soaks up flavors. Slice or cube your potatoes and toss them with your choice of crisp veggies—think celery, red onion, or even a handful of colorful bell peppers. Dress it all up with a tangy mayonnaise or mustard-based dressing, and perhaps some fresh herbs for added depth. The result? A potato salad that’s not just a side dish but a conversation starter, bursting with texture and nuanced flavors.

Classic Potato Latkes

Embrace tradition with Classic Potato Latkes, a beloved staple of Jewish cuisine that brings the simple ingredients of grated potato, onion, and egg to an entirely new level of deliciousness. The secret to a great latke lies in squeezing out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes, ensuring that what you’re left with is a mixture that fries up to golden, crispy perfection. Accentuated with a hint of salt and perhaps some garlic powder, these latkes are fried until their edges attain that dreamy crispiness, while their centers remain tender and flavorful. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce for an authentic culinary experience that delights with each bite.

Shepherd’s Pie Potato Skins

Why settle for ordinary when you can transform your potato skins into a hearty meal inspired by the classic Shepherd’s Pie? Start with your baked potato halves as a canvas and layer in a mouthwatering mixture of cooked ground beef and potatoes or lamb, with carrots, peas, and rich gravy. Once your skins are generously filled, top them off with a blanket of creamy mashed potatoes, inviting a sprinkle of shredded cheese if you desire. After a brief time in the oven, the flavors meld into a wholesome, comforting experience that fuses two iconic recipes into one. Each bite offers layers of texture and flavor, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Try making this with lamb or mutton!

Potato Casserole

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty satisfaction of a potato casserole. This recipe allows your leftover baked potatoes to take on a new identity, enveloped in a creamy, cheesy concoction that’s baked to perfection. Simply slice your potatoes and layer them in a baking dish with ingredients like half and half, garlic, cheese, and perhaps a sprinkling of crispy bacon or fresh herbs. As it bakes, the flavors meld together into a symphony of taste and texture that warms you from the inside out. Whether you serve it as a decadent side dish or a main course, this potato casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Quick and Easy Home Fries

For those mornings when you’re craving something hearty and fulfilling, quick and easy home fries made from leftover baked potatoes are a breakfast game-changer. Since the potatoes are already cooked, you’ll cut your preparation time in half. Simply dice your spuds and toss them into a hot skillet with a touch of vegetable oil. Add in chopped onions, bell peppers, and your favorite seasonings like paprika or garlic powder for an extra kick. The outer layer gets a flavorful, crispy sear while the inside remains deliciously tender. Pair these home fries with eggs, bacon, or a dollop of ketchup, and you’ve turned last night’s recipe into this morning’s breakfast star.

Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole

Take your comfort food game to the next level with Loaded Mashed Potato Meatloaf Casserole. This culinary wonder combines the hominess of meatloaf with the creamy delight of mashed potatoes, along with all the loaded toppings you can imagine. Start by layering a seasoned meatloaf mixture at the bottom of your casserole pan. Once baked, slather a generous helping of mashed potatoes made from your leftover baked spuds. Crown this creation with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a sprinkle of green onions. A final bake unites these elements into a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, creating a meal that’s as fulfilling as it is delicious.

Potato Salad with Green Onions

Welcome to the ideal fusion of creamy and crunchy, where your leftover baked potatoes find new life in a Potato Salad with Green Onions. The baked potatoes provide a unique, fluffier texture than boiled ones, and when mixed with a blend of mayonnaise, mustard, and a splash of vinegar, they soak up all the flavors magnificently. The green onions play a dual role here: their white parts contribute a subtle sharpness, while the green tops add color and a milder, herby taste. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a hearty side, this potato salad offers an inviting mix of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

BBQ Chili Shepherd’s Pie

Take your shepherd’s pie to smoky new heights by adding a BBQ twist. In this creative take, your traditional ground meat mixture is infused with barbecue sauce and chili seasonings, offering a complex, smoky flavor. After you’ve laid this flavorful foundation in your pie pan, spread a layer of corn kernels for sweetness and texture. Top it off with a fluffy layer of mashed potatoes made from your leftover baked spuds. Once baked, the layers meld into a spicy, savory, and slightly sweet ensemble that combines the best of BBQ and Shepherd’s Pie in a single, satisfying meal. If you like this recipe, check out how to use leftover chili meat.

Colcannon Mashed Potatoes

When you combine leftover baked potatoes with the rich traditions of Irish cuisine, you get Colcannon Mashed Potatoes—a dish where comfort food meets cultural heritage. Start by mashing your baked potatoes until they reach a creamy consistency, then fold in sautéed greens like kale or cabbage, along with a generous amount of butter and a splash of milk or cream. The greens bring a burst of color and a touch of bitterness that perfectly complements the earthiness of the potato. Garlic and scallions can also be added for a more complex flavor profile. Served alongside a hearty stew or as a standalone dish, Colcannon Mashed Potatoes are the epitome of comfort, perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply elevating your weeknight dinner.

Loaded Leftover Baked Potato Soup

Turn your extra baked potatoes into a pot of liquid gold with Loaded Leftover Baked Potato Soup. The genius of this recipe lies in its simplicity and its ability to be customized. Begin by sautéing some onions and garlic until translucent, then add in diced baked potatoes and beef broth. After a short simmer, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture to your desired level of smoothness. The final touch? Load it up with all the toppings you would put on a traditional baked potato—think sour cream, grated cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a sprinkle of chives. This is a hearty and indulgent soup, perfect for rainy days or as a sumptuous starter for any meal.

Meaty Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls

If you’re looking for a delicious way to repurpose both leftover meat and potatoes, Meaty Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls have got you covered. These delectable morsels begin with a core of your choice of meat—be it shredded chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian alternative. This core is then encased in a shell of mashed potatoes, seasoned to perfection. Once assembled, the balls are coated in breadcrumbs and either fried or baked until they reach a golden-brown hue. The result is a bite-sized explosion of flavors and textures, making for an appetizing starter or an addictive snack.

Tex-Mex Mashed Potatoes

Spice up your mashed potato game with the robust flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. Your base of creamy mashed potatoes serves as a canvas for a mix of ingredients like diced jalapeños, black beans, corn, and chopped cilantro. Stir in some cumin and chili powder for that quintessential Tex-Mex kick, and finish with a generous dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. These potatoes offer a multi-layered taste experience, replete with contrasting textures and flavors that keep your palate engaged from the first bite to the last. Ideal for pairing with grilled meats or serving alongside fajitas, these mashed potatoes bring a dash of the Southwest to your table. Check out our recipe for Tex-Mex paste and our list of Texas desserts!

Potato Romanoff

For a dish that carries an air of elegance while still embracing the heartiness of potatoes, look no further than Potato Romanoff. This dish requires shredding your leftover baked potatoes, which are then mixed with finely chopped shallots and grated sharp cheddar cheese. But what sets it apart is the addition of sour cream, adding a creamy tang that elevates the entire dish. After a liberal seasoning of salt and pepper, the mixture is transferred to a baking dish and popped into the oven. As it bakes, the top layer becomes irresistibly crispy, while the interior remains decadently creamy. Potato Romanoff serves as an exquisite side dish for special occasions, or as the star of a simpler meal, highlighting the true versatility of the humble baked potato.

Cracked Chicken Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Imagine taking all the flavors of a creamy, herb-infused cracked chicken dish and tucking them into the cozy embrace of a baked potato. That’s precisely what Cracked Chicken Stuffed Baked Potatoes offer—a fusion of comfort foods that tantalize the taste buds. Start by shredding cooked chicken breast and mixing it with cream cheese, garlic powder, ranch seasoning, and a handful of crisp bacon bits. This delightful mixture is then spooned into halved baked potatoes, creating a protein-packed, one-dish meal. Pop them back in the oven for a brief reheat, and you’ll find the flavors meld into a creamy, savory filling, perfect for those nights when you want something indulgent yet simple. Also try our crack green bean casserole and crack chicken noodle soup.

Cowboy Loaded Baked Potato

For a tasty treat that brings the flavors of the American West to your dinner table, the Cowboy Loaded Baked Potato has you covered. Begin by hollowing out your baked potatoes, much like you would for a twice-baked potato. Then fill that well with a hearty mixture of cooked ground beef, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, flavored with barbecue sauce and a smoky spice blend. Top it all off with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and return to the oven until the cheese is bubbly and slightly crisped. It’s a meal in itself, offering layers of texture and bursts of flavor with every bite, truly capturing the essence of cowboy cuisine. Also try our cowboy caviar!

German Potato Pancakes

Drawing inspiration from traditional German cuisine, these potato pancakes, also known as Reibekuchen, offer a scrumptious twist to your leftover baked potatoes. The first step involves grating your baked potatoes, which adds texture and surface area for that much-desired crispiness. Combine this with finely chopped onions, beaten eggs, and a handful of flour to bind it all together. Season generously with salt and a dash of nutmeg for that authentic touch. Pan-fry spoonfuls of the mixture until they transform into golden, crispy rounds. Serve these pancakes with applesauce or sour cream for a versatile recipe that can swing sweet or savory, making it suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Potato Skins

Potato skins are the epitome of snackable indulgence, marrying crispy textures with a medley of savory flavors. To start, halve your baked potatoes lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a bit of potato in the skin for structure and flavor. A quick brush of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt prepares these empty shells for their second trip to the oven, where they crisp up to perfection. Once out, fill them with a mix of shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced green onions. A final stint under the broiler melts the cheese into bubbly, golden bliss. Served with a side of sour cream for dipping, these potato skins are the ultimate finger food, perfect for game day or as an appetizer for a casual dinner party.

Crispy Baked Potato Wedges

If you’re in the mood for something that satisfies your craving for crunch without the guilt of deep frying, Crispy Baked Potato Wedges are your go-to. Cut your leftover baked potatoes into wedges and toss them in a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and your choice of herbs—rosemary and thyme work exceptionally well. Spread these seasoned wedges on a baking sheet, ensuring they have room to crisp up without steaming each other. A brief bake in a hot oven transforms them into wedges that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve with ketchup or a homemade boom boom sauce that’s sure to steal the spotlight, or enjoy them as a stand-alone snack (or part of an adult lunchable!) that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

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Leftover Baked Potato Recipes FAQS

How long are leftover baked potatoes good for?

Leftover baked potatoes can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. Make sure to wrap them in aluminum foil or store them in an airtight container to retain moisture and flavor. If you plan on keeping them for a more extended period, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them in the fridge before using them in any of the delightful recipes mentioned in this blog post.

Are baked potatoes good for leftovers?

Absolutely, baked potatoes are excellent as leftovers! Their robust structure and mild flavor make them a versatile ingredient for a variety of dishes, from hearty breakfast hashes to indulgent casseroles. Since they’re already cooked, leftover baked potatoes also save you a considerable amount of time in the kitchen. In fact, some recipes are specifically designed to capitalize on the unique texture and flavor that comes from using baked potatoes that have been allowed to rest.

What are the best potatoes for baked potatoes?

The best potatoes for baking are starchy varieties like Russets or Idaho potatoes. Their high-starch content results in a fluffy, light interior once baked, making them ideal for many types of recipes. These potatoes also have a thick, durable skin that crisps up beautifully in the oven, providing a delightful textural contrast to the soft inside.  

How do you make baked potatoes taste good the next day?

To make your leftover baked potatoes taste just as good the next day, there are several strategies you can employ. For one, reheating them in the oven (as opposed to the microwave) can help restore their original texture and flavor. A quick bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes should do the trick. Alternatively, you can slice, dice, or shred them to incorporate into various recipes like casseroles, hashes, or potato pancakes. Seasoning them well and combining them with complementary ingredients will also infuse new life into your leftovers, making them a delightful part of your next meal.

Have questions or suggestions about leftover baked potato recipes? Leave them in the comments below.