6 original recipes starring the humble potato

The potato is more than just a side dish to meat, or mashed and topped on shepherd’s pie. Turn this common pantry vegetable into the star ingredient of generous and budget-friendly meals. Here are 6 recipes that are anything but ordinary and will help you appreciate its versatility.

1. Mashed potato-topped mini tourtière

We’re far from the traditional holiday pie with this version, in which the crust has been replaced with a mixture of mashed potatoes, cream cheese and nutmeg. You therefore gain some time by not having to roll out dough. Distribute the meat mixture into tart moulds and cover with the mashed potatoes. It’s a great recipe to double and then store in the freezer for a later date.

2. Potato-mushroom casserole

Mushrooms and potatoes are the two base ingredients in this easy-to-make recipe. Sauté the mushrooms in a pan with butter and garlic, and then add thinly sliced potatoes into the broth. Cream, Parmesan and thyme complete the ingredients list for this dish, which is then broiled to melt the cheese.

3. Shepherd’s pie baked potatoes

Use the microwave to reduce the cooking time of whole, unpeeled potatoes, which we prefer for this recipe. Once baked, slice them in half and remove the flesh to make mashed potatoes. Fill in the cavities with the meat mixture, creamed corn and the mashed potato topping. And there you have it: mini shepherd’s pies served in a potato half; the kids are sure to love them!

4. Baby potato, green bean and ham meal salad

Take the traditional potato salad up a notch with this version that combines baby potatoes, green beans and ham (which can be replaced with canned tuna). Dress the ingredients with a vinaigrette made of mustard, shallots and an egg yolk; any left over can be kept in the fridge for later use with the salad of your choice. It’s a quick and easy meal, perfect for lunch or on busy weeknights.

5. Caramelized leek and potato soup

As a starter for weekend dinners or to pair with a sandwich at lunchtime, it’s always a treat to whip up a tasty bowl of soup. Prepare this vegetarian recipe by adding potatoes, broth and beer to a mixture of caramelized leeks. Reduce the mixture to a smooth purée and add a touch of sour cream when serving. Accompany this simple and comforting soup with a few slices of toasted bread.

6. Turkey, potato & cheese quesadillas

This meal, ready in just 30 minutes, has the advantage of being a hit with the kids. Make these quesadillas using a store-bought fajita kit, which you’ll then stuff with shredded turkey, cheese and mashed potatoes for an even heartier filling. Add seasoning to enhance the taste of the mashed potatoes. After browning the quesadillas in the oven, garnish with green onions, jalapenos, cilantro, sour cream and salsa.