Pan-fried mashed potato cakes are a fantastic way to breathe new life into leftover mashed potatoes. Whether you serve them as a side dish or a snack, these crispy and savory cakes are a delightful treat that transforms yesterday’s meal into today’s culinary delight.

To these creamy leftover mashed potatoes, we add shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, all-purpose flour, a beaten egg, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. These ingredients serve multiple purposes. Shredded cheddar cheese not only adds flavor but also contributes to the cakes’ structural integrity. As it melts during cooking, it forms a delightful, crispy crust. Chopped green onions bring a fresh and crisp element to the dish. All-purpose flour and a beaten egg act as binders, holding the potato cakes together as they cook. This ensures that the cakes maintain their shape and texture.
Once the ingredients are mixed, the mixture is formed into small, round patties. Try your best to keep them uniform in size to ensure even cooking. You can shape them by hand or with the assistance of a mold.
Frying these leftover mashed potatoes transforms them into crispy, golden-brown potato cakes. Each cake is cooked for about 3-4 minutes on each side in a hot skillet with a bit of vegetable oil until it develops that irresistible golden crust.
Pan-fried mashed potato cakes, with their crispy exterior and creamy interior, are a versatile treat that can be used for numerous occasions. Start your day with a plate of these potato cakes alongside your favorite breakfast items. They pair wonderfully with eggs, bacon, and a dash of hot sauce. As a side dish, they complement a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled fish. They can be the star of the plate or a supporting player. Serve smaller portions as appetizers at gatherings or parties. Top them with sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions for a perfect crowd pleaser. They’re the perfect solution for reviving last night’s mashed potatoes.
So, the next time you have leftover mashed potatoes, don’t let them go to waste. Instead, transform them into these crispy, savory pan fried mashed potato cakes. Whether it’s brunch with friends, a cozy dinner, or a party appetizer, these pan-fried mashed potato cakes are a delightful way to make the most of what’s already in your kitchen.
Pan Fried Mashed Potato Cakes
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
- sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, all-purpose flour, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Form the mixture into small patties, about 1/2 inch thick and 3-4 inches in diameter.
- In a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the potato cakes in the hot skillet, ensuring they have enough space around them to cook evenly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip them.
- Once the potato cakes are crispy and golden on both sides, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve your pan-fried mashed potato cakes hot, garnished with additional chopped green onions and a side of sour cream if desired.
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That looks bomb. I’ll have to give it a try!