Build a mashed potatoes bowl by adding leftovers you already have on hand. This is a great way to clear out the fridge and use up items on their last legs. Food waste is bad, mkay?

Vegetables

Steamable vegetables like corn, spinach, or broccoli are easiest, whether fresh or frozen. Just pop them into the microwave until desired tenderness is reached.

For fresh vegetables that release a lot of liquid, like onions, mushrooms or bell peppers, you can roast them in the oven or give them some heat on the stovetop, first.

The mashed potatoes themselves can also be microwaved. Add a little bit of liquid (water, milk, or cream) to keep them from drying out too much, if that’s a concern.

Protein

Bulk up your bowl with whatever meat or beans you have on hand, whether that’s chapli kabab, chicken tenders, deli meat, or leftover lentils.

If adding meat, I’d avoid heating it in the microwave, since I hate the taste of microwaved meat. Either heat it separately via another method (stovetop, oven, toaster oven or airfryer), or simply bury it under the piping hot vegetables for a few minutes to warm up.

Toppings

Mix everything up and add gravy or cream sauce to keep things from getting too dry. Other toppings include jams or jellies for a bit of sweetness, chutneys for a chatpata kick, or your favorite hot sauce.

Other suggestions include cheese, fresh herbs, fresh cracked black pepper. Use what you have.