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Ingredients for Crispy Mashed Potato Cakes
2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (or freshly made)
1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, or your choice)
1/4 cup chopped green onions (or chives)
1 large egg
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Oil for frying (vegetable or olive oil)
Optional: breadcrumbs for extra crunch
How to Make Crispy Mashed Potato Cakes
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, grated cheese, chopped green onions, egg, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. If you prefer a thicker texture, you can add a little more flour.
Step 2: Form the Cakes
Use your hands to form the mixture into patties about 1/2 inch thick. You should get about 8-10 cakes, depending on the size.
Lightly dust each cake with flour to help create a crispy crust when frying.
Step 3: Fry the Cakes
Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of the mixture into it; if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough.
Carefully add the potato cakes to the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the cakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, sour cream, or a side salad.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Large mixing bowl
Skillet or frying pan
Spatula
Paper towels (for draining)
Optional: cookie sheet for keeping cakes warm in the oven
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftover crispy mashed potato cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also reheat them in a skillet for a few minutes on each side.
Tips for the Best Crispy Mashed Potato Cakes
Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: Chilled leftover mashed potatoes hold together better when forming the cakes.
Customize the Flavor: Experiment with different herbs, spices, or additional ingredients like cooked bacon, corn, or bell peppers to add variety.
Breadcrumb Coating: For an extra crispy texture, consider coating the cakes in breadcrumbs before frying.
Variations and Add-Ons
Vegetable Version: Add finely chopped cooked vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini to the potato mixture for a nutritious twist.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture for a bit of heat.
Cheesy Delight: Incorporate different types of cheese, such as feta or pepper jack, for added flavor.
FAQs About Crispy Mashed Potato Cakes
1. Can I make these cakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cakes in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked cakes and fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. What can I serve with mashed potato cakes?
These cakes pair well with a variety of dips, such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli. They also make a great side dish for meat dishes or salads.
3. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush them lightly with oil. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
Enjoy a Tasty Twist on Leftovers!
Crispy Mashed Potato Cakes are a delicious and inventive way to use up leftover mashed potatoes while impressing your family and friends with a delightful dish. Their crispy exterior and soft, cheesy interior make them irresistible. Don’t forget to share this recipe and subscribe to our blog for more creative and scrumptious recipes that will elevate your cooking game!