Mashed potato cakes (or patties) are a crispy, golden, and satisfying way to use up leftover mashed potatoes — or to make fresh as a comfort-food side or snack. They’re easy, customizable, and incredibly delicious.
🥔 Mashed Potato Cakes / Patties
🍽️ Serves: 4 (makes 8–10 patties)
⏱️ Time: 25–30 minutes
📝 Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftovers work great!)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but delicious)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or breadcrumbs)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2–3 tbsp oil or butter, for frying
Optional add-ins:
- Crumbled bacon
- Garlic powder or onion powder
- Finely chopped cooked spinach, parsley, or herbs
- Diced ham or turkey
- Paprika or cayenne for a little kick
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Mix the batter:
In a large bowl, combine:
- Mashed potatoes
- Egg
- Cheese
- Green onions
- Flour
- Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices
Mix well until you can form a dough-like mixture. If it’s too wet, add a little more flour or breadcrumbs.
2. Form into patties:
Scoop about ¼ cup of mixture and shape into flat patties (about ½ inch thick). Place on a plate.
3. Pan-fry until crispy:
- Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties in batches for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Serve warm!
Great on their own or topped with:
- Sour cream & chives
- Applesauce (for a latke-style twist)
- Hot sauce or aioli
- Fried egg on top for brunch
🔁 Variations:
- Gluten-free? Use GF flour or almond flour
- Vegan? Use flax egg + vegan cheese or nutritional yeast
- Air fryer? Brush with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for ~10–12 min, flipping halfway