Simplify Dinner Prep: 5 Make-Ahead Potato Recipes for Weeknight Ease

Meal preparation is a time-saving lifesaver, and make ahead potato recipes are a game-changer. These versatile dishes allow you to enjoy delicious potato meals without the last-minute hassle. From creamy mashed potatoes to crispy roasted wedges, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive collection of make ahead potato recipes to streamline your meal planning.

1. Creamy Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 5 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes until tender.
2. Mash potatoes until smooth.
3. Stir in milk, butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
5. Reheat over low heat before serving.

2. Roasted Rosemary Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Cool and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
5. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Crispy Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss potato wedges with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook in the air fryer for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
4. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
5. Reheat in the air fryer or oven before serving.

4. Creamy Potato Salad

Ingredients:

• 5 pounds potatoes, boiled and diced
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped hard-boiled eggs
• 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine potatoes, mayonnaise, celery, onion, eggs, pickles, salt, and pepper.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

5. Cheesy Potato Casserole

Ingredients:

• 4 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer potatoes, soup, cheese, milk, onion, salt, and pepper in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and casserole is bubbly.
4. Cool and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
5. Reheat in the oven before serving.

6. Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Layer potatoes and onions in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Whisk together cream, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour mixture over potatoes and onions.
5. Bake for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until potatoes are tender and sauce is thickened.
6. Cool and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
7. Reheat in the oven before serving.

7. Potato Gratin

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer potatoes in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Whisk together cream, Gruyère cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour mixture over potatoes.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and sauce is bubbly.
6. Cool and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
7. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Tips for Make Ahead Potato Recipes

• Use waxy potatoes for dishes like potato salad and roasted potatoes, as they hold their shape better.
• Cool potatoes completely before refrigerating to prevent sogginess.
• Store make ahead potato recipes in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
• Reheat potato dishes slowly and gently to prevent burning.
• Consider adding herbs, spices, or sauces to enhance the flavor of your make ahead potato recipes.

Beyond the Ordinary: Variations and Inspirations

• Sweet Potato Hash: Create a hearty breakfast or brunch with roasted sweet potatoes, peppers, and onions.
• Potato and Sausage Skillet: Combine potatoes, sausage, and veggies for a quick and satisfying one-pan meal.
• Potato and Leek Soup: Puree potatoes with leeks, broth, and cream for a comforting and creamy soup.
• Potato Pancakes: Make fluffy potato pancakes with grated potatoes, flour, and eggs.
• Potato Pierogi: Fill potato dough with your favorite fillings, such as cheese, sauerkraut, or meat.

The Final Touches

Make ahead potato recipes are a culinary lifesaver, providing convenience and flexibility. Experiment with different flavors and techniques to create dishes that will delight your taste buds. Remember, meal preparation is not just about saving time but also about enhancing your culinary skills and enjoying delicious meals with ease.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I make ahead potato recipes without refrigerating them?

A: It is not advisable to store make ahead potato recipes at room temperature for extended periods, as they can spoil quickly. Refrigeration helps preserve their freshness and safety.

Q: How long can I store make ahead potato recipes in the refrigerator?

A: Most make ahead potato recipes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it is important to check the specific recipe for storage instructions.

Q: Can I freeze make ahead potato recipes?

A: Yes, you can freeze some make ahead potato recipes, such as potato casseroles and gratins. However, dishes containing dairy or eggs may not freeze as well.