If you find yourself with a lot of leftover mashed potatoes – and if you make a bunch or a box at the request of a small child, you will – you’ll be relieved to know that there is a second act of sorts for your pound of potato paste: as bread. Weird? Not really: Scandinavian and central European peoples have been making flatbreads with crushed or riced potatoes for centuries. But we’re Americans, dammit, and we turn everything into a convenience or productive application; this recipe is no different, to say nothing of the fact that we’ve added yogurt to up the protein count. Use an instant mashed potato mix; make the mash yourself. Use fancy potatoes; use sweet potatoes. Doesn’t matter. The recipe will work great with whatever you got.
(*The recipe assumes you have already prepared mashed potatoes, and that they are seasoned; if you need guidance on (quickly) making mashed potatoes from scratch, see Notes section below.)
Ingredients Overview
- Mashed Potatoes: The starchy base of the dough. Whether made from scratch or an instant mix, ensure they are seasoned to your liking as they provide the primary flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the bread. You may need slightly more or less depending on the moisture content of your specific potatoes.
- Yogurt: Our secret "New Dad" upgrade. It adds a bit of tang, keeps the bread soft, and boosts the protein and calcium content for growing kids.
- Butter: Used for finishing the bread to add a rich, golden flavor and keep the surface supple.
Steps Summary
- Form the Dough: Combine the leftover mashed potatoes, flour, and yogurt in a bowl, adjusting flour until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky.
- Prep the Surface: Flour your workspace generously to prevent the potato dough from clinging to the counter.
- Shape: Roll small portions into balls and flatten them into thin discs using a rolling pin or your palms.
- Sear: Cook on a medium-high pan for about 60–90 seconds per side until golden brown spots appear.
- Finish: Lightly coat with butter while warm and serve with your choice of toppings.
FAQ
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes? Yes, sweet potato mash works beautifully and adds a natural sweetness and extra Vitamin A, though you may need a touch more flour if the mash is very soft.
How do I store these for later? Store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for 2 days, or freeze them with parchment paper between layers for up to 3 months.
Why is my dough too sticky to roll? Potato moisture varies wildly. If it sticks to your hands, add flour one tablespoon at a time until the dough feels like soft playdough.
Are these gluten-free? This specific recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may be slightly more delicate.
What is the best way to reheat them? A quick 15-second zap in the microwave keeps them soft, or you can toss them back in a dry pan for a minute to regain some crispness.
Can I skip the yogurt? You can, but the bread will be less pliable and lose the extra nutritional boost. If skipping, you may need a teaspoon of water to help the dough bind.
Recipe Links
What to Serve With Leftover Mashed Potatoes Flatbread
- Yogurt Soup — Make a meal of it by pairing it with this comforting and nutritionally dense soup.
- Easy Meat and Veggie Flatbread — Put the flatbread to use in this Middle Eastern inspired mix of minced veggies and meat.
- Chicken Salad Toasts — Are chicken and veggie salad tastes great on flatbread, too!
More Toddler Recipes Like This
- Boxty — These Irish-inspired pancake fritters are another way to put leftover mashed potatoes to use.
- High Protein Pizza Dough — Cottage cheese adds savory flavor and a big dose of protein to this pizza dough for kids.
- Chickpea Bread for Toddlers — Another high-protein, easy-to-hold bread option perfect for little hands.
And check out all our great veggies and sides!