Mashed Potato Cakes

Instructions for Mashed Potato Cakes

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, beaten egg, flour, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, chives, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined. If the mixture feels too wet or sticky, add a little more flour or breadcrumbs until the texture is easy to handle and form into cakes.

Step 2: Form the Cakes

Take a spoonful of the potato mixture and form it into a small patty. You can make them as large or small as you like, but a typical size is about 2–3 inches in diameter. For extra crispiness, you can coat each cake lightly in breadcrumbs, but this step is optional.

Step 3: Fry the Cakes

Heat the butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the potato cakes to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry the cakes for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat to prevent burning while ensuring the cakes cook through.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

Once the potato cakes are crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately while they’re warm and crispy.

Tips for Perfect Mashed Potato Cakes

1. Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: Cold mashed potatoes are ideal for this recipe as they hold their shape better when forming the cakes. If you’re making fresh mashed potatoes, let them cool down before using them in this recipe.
2. Season Well: Mashed potatoes on their own can be a bit plain, so make sure to season your mixture well with salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you enjoy. Fresh chives, parsley, or dill add a nice pop of flavor.
3. Add Cheese: For a richer taste, consider mixing in shredded cheese (like cheddar, mozzarella, or even blue cheese) to the potato mixture. Cheese will add extra flavor and creaminess to the cakes.
4. Experiment with Veggies: You can enhance the cakes by adding finely chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just make sure to sauté them beforehand to release excess moisture.
5. Make Ahead: If you’re planning to make these in advance, you can prepare the potato mixture and form the cakes ahead of time. Simply cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to fry. This saves time when it comes to meal prep.
6. Serve with Dipping Sauces: These potato cakes are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with a dipping sauce! Try sour cream, ketchup, ranch dressing, or even a homemade garlic aioli for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Mashed Potato Cakes

• As a Side Dish: Serve the mashed potato cakes alongside your favorite main course, like roast chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables. The crispy texture pairs well with juicy meats.
• As a Snack or Appetizer: These potato cakes make fantastic finger food. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch dressing, sour cream, or a zesty salsa.
• In a Breakfast or Brunch Spread: Top the cakes with a fried egg, bacon, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a hearty breakfast or brunch option. They make a great base for a savory breakfast dish.
• With a Salad: Pair these mashed potato cakes with a fresh green salad for a light, satisfying meal. The crispiness of the cakes balances the freshness of the salad nicely.

Why You’ll Love These Mashed Potato Cakes

Mashed Potato Cakes are a fantastic way to make the most of leftover mashed potatoes while creating a flavorful and fun dish. With their crispy golden exterior and creamy interior, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking to use up leftovers, impress guests at a party, or just enjoy a comforting snack, these cakes are always a hit.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can turn ordinary mashed potatoes into something extraordinary. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can tweak it to suit your tastes, add in extra flavors, or even serve it in different ways.

Final Thoughts

Mashed Potato Cakes are an incredibly easy and delicious way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes. They’re crispy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, making them a perfect side dish or snack for any occasion. Whether you make them for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

So, the next time you find yourself with extra mashed potatoes, don’t let them go to waste—turn them into these delightful, golden mashed potato cakes. Enjoy!