Elevate Your Leftovers: Creative Ways to Use Up Au Gratin Potatoes
Food waste is a growing problem worldwide, with an estimated 1.3 billion tons of food being wasted every year. In the United States alone, it is estimated that 30-40% of all food produced is never eaten. This not only has negative environmental impacts but also contributes to hunger and poverty around the world.
One way to combat food waste is by finding creative ways to use leftovers. Instead of letting leftover food go bad in the fridge, we can repurpose it into new and exciting dishes.
This not only helps reduce waste but also saves money and time in the kitchen. One such dish that often goes to waste as leftovers is au gratin potatoes.
These deliciously cheesy and creamy potatoes are a staple side dish, but they tend to make more than enough for one meal. Instead of throwing away the leftovers, we can use them to create new dishes that are just as tasty as the original.
Leftover Au Gratin Potato Ideas
Here are some ideas for turning those leftover dinner au gratin potatoes into a completely new meal!
Potato and Ham Breakfast Skillet
Sauté diced ham and onions in a skillet until lightly browned. Add the leftover au gratin potatoes and cook until heated through. Make wells in the mixture and crack eggs into each well. Cover and cook until the eggs are cooked to your liking. Serve as a hearty breakfast or brunch skillet.
Cheesy Potato Stuffed Peppers
Slice bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Fill each pepper half with the leftover au gratin potatoes. Top with shredded cheese and bake in the oven until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a colorful and flavorful side dish.
Potato and Cheese Quesadillas
Spread the leftover au gratin potatoes onto a tortilla and top with shredded cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and cook in a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Slice into wedges and serve with salsa or sour cream for a tasty quesadilla variation.
Potato Pancakes
Combine the leftover au gratin potatoes with some flour, beaten eggs, and a pinch of baking powder to create a batter. Heat oil in a skillet and drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Cook until golden brown on both sides. Serve the potato pancakes with sour cream, apple sauce, or even apple butter for a delightful and crispy snack or side dish.
Cheesy Potato Soup
Blend the leftover au gratin potatoes with some vegetable or chicken broth until smooth. Heat the mixture in a pot, adding additional seasonings and ingredients like diced vegetables, crispy bacon, or cooked ham for added flavor and texture. Simmer until heated through, and you’ll have a comforting and creamy potato soup.
Potato Breakfast Hash
Chop the leftover au gratin potatoes into smaller pieces. Sauté them in a skillet with diced onions, bell peppers, and any other desired breakfast ingredients like cooked sausage or bacon. Cook until the potatoes are crispy and the flavors meld together. Serve with a fried or poached egg on top for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
Potato Croquettes
Shape the leftover au gratin potatoes into small croquettes. Roll them in breadcrumbs and lightly fry them until golden and crispy. These potato croquettes can be served as a delicious appetizer or a side dish. Dip them in a tangy sauce like spicy aioli or creamy ranch dressing for an extra burst of flavor.
Potato and Cheese Frittata
Whisk together some beaten eggs with the leftover au gratin potatoes. Pour the mixture into a heated skillet and cook until the eggs are set. Top with additional shredded cheese and bake until the cheese melts and turns golden. Cut into wedges and serve as a savory frittata for a hearty brunch or light dinner option.
Loaded Potato Casserole
Layer the leftover au gratin potatoes in a baking dish with cooked bacon, diced green onions, and shredded cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Top with a dollop of sour cream and additional toppings like chopped tomatoes or fresh herbs for a flavorful and satisfying potato casserole.
How to Store Leftover Au Gratin Potatoes Properly
When storing leftover au gratin potatoes, it’s important to keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, transfer them to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. Always label the container with the date of storage and be mindful of how long they’ve been stored.
Using Leftover Au Gratin Potatoes Safely
To ensure that your leftover au gratin potatoes are safe to eat, it’s important to follow proper food handling practices. When reheating, ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming. Additionally, avoid leaving cooked potatoes at room temperature for extended periods as this can promote bacterial growth.
Tips for Reheating Leftover Au Gratin Potatoes
There are several ways you can reheat leftover au gratin potatoes depending on your preference and available resources. The quickest and easiest method is using a microwave.
Simply place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover with plastic wrap or a lid with holes poked into it for steam ventilation. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven by placing them in an oven-safe dish and covering with foil before baking at 350°F (177°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
For added crispiness, remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking. If you prefer stovetop heating, you can use a non-stick skillet over medium heat until warmed through while stirring occasionally.
How to use up Leftover Au Gratin Potatoes
Leftover au gratin potatoes can be transformed into new and exciting dishes, providing a tasty solution to reduce food waste. From creamy potato soup to crispy potato croquettes, the possibilities are endless.
By using your creativity and incorporating additional ingredients, you can breathe new life into these delicious leftovers. So, the next time you find yourself with leftover au gratin potatoes, don’t let them go to waste.
Try one of these ideas and enjoy a satisfying meal or appetizer. Happy cooking and savoring every last bite of your culinary creations!
