Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into these irresistible, crispy potato cakes. They are golden brown outside, fluffy inside, and packed with cheddar and chives for a perfect comfort food side or snack.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:10 min
Total Time:20 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Pan Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Optional: Sour cream or applesauce for serving
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, beaten egg, flour, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix; the mixture should hold together when pressed.
Shape the potato mixture into small patties, about 1/2 inch thick and 2 to 3 inches wide. You should get about 10 to 12 cakes.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should coat the bottom of the pan lightly.
Carefully place the potato cakes into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the skillet. Work in batches if necessary.
Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
Flip the cakes gently and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes on the second side until golden brown and heated through.
Remove the crispy mashed potato cakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve your ultimate crispy potato cakes immediately with your favorite topping, like sour cream or applesauce.
Notes
Make sure your mashed potatoes are cold. Cold potatoes bind better and help the cakes hold their shape during frying.
If your leftover mash seems too loose, add one extra tablespoon of flour until the mixture is manageable.
For an extra savory flavor, substitute the chives with 1 teaspoon of dried onion flakes.
These potato cakes are a fantastic budget friendly potato meal and reheat well in an oven or air fryer for a quick snack later.