Made Potato Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes
Introduction
Potato cakes are a delightful way to breathe new life into leftover mashed potatoes. With just a few added ingredients and a quick pan-fry.
you can transform yesterday’s side dish into a golden, crispy treat that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
They’re comforting, delicious, and incredibly easy to make, making them a favorite for home cooks who don’t want food to go to waste.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Made Potato Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes
2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
1 large egg
¼ cup all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite – optional)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions or fresh herbs (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter or cooking oil for frying
You can customize these ingredients based on what you have on hand. Add-ins like bacon bits, garlic powder, or diced onions can boost flavor, while gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute if needed.
Instructions
Start by placing your leftover mashed potatoes in a large mixing bowl.
Make sure they are cold and firm, as this helps with shaping them later. If your potatoes are too soft or runny, you might need to add a bit more flour for structure.
Crack an egg into the bowl and mix it into the mashed potatoes thoroughly. This helps bind everything together so the cakes hold their shape while cooking.
If you’d like, this is the time to add any extras like cheese, herbs, or even chopped bacon.
Gradually add flour to the mixture, a tablespoon at a time, until the consistency is thick enough to form into patties.
You’re aiming for a dough that’s soft but not sticky, so you can easily shape it with your hands.
Take a handful of the mixture and form it into a flat, round cake about half an inch thick. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
You can lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking and make the shaping process smoother.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil. Once hot, place a few cakes into the pan, leaving space between each one. Let them cook for a few minutes until golden brown and crisp on one side.
Flip the cakes gently with a spatula and cook the other side until golden and heated through. If needed, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning the outside before the inside is warm.
Transfer the cooked potato cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve them hot and crispy with your favorite dipping sauce, sour cream, or even a fried egg on top.
How to Make
The foundation of these potato cakes lies in having the right consistency of mashed potatoes.
If your leftovers are too creamy or thin, consider mixing in extra flour or even breadcrumbs to help them firm up.
Use cold mashed potatoes straight from the fridge, as they’re easier to work with and shape into cakes. This reduces the chances of them falling apart while frying.
Adding an egg is important because it acts as a binder. Without it, the mixture may crumble in the pan. If you’re out of eggs, a spoonful of mayonnaise or sour cream can sometimes do the trick.
Incorporate seasonings directly into the mix. Mashed potatoes can be bland if not seasoned well, so don’t forget salt, pepper, and other favorite spices like paprika or garlic powder.
Frying is best done in a heavy-bottomed skillet using a bit of oil or butter. The goal is to get that perfect golden crust while heating the inside thoroughly. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as it can lower the temperature and cause soggy cakes.
Let the cakes rest on a paper towel after frying. This step keeps them from becoming greasy and helps retain that crisp texture. You can also keep them warm in the oven while you finish the batch.
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Potato cakes lose their crispness as they sit, so they’re best enjoyed fresh from the pan.
Variations
You can mix in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan for a cheesy twist. The cheese melts while frying, adding gooey richness inside the crispy shell.
For a fresh and herbaceous flavor, try adding chopped parsley, green onions, chives, or dill to the potato mixture. These add a burst of color and brightness.
Bacon bits, diced ham, or shredded chicken can turn your potato cakes into a heartier main dish, perfect for a quick dinner or brunch.
Mix in vegetables like grated carrots, corn, or peas for added nutrition and texture. This is a great way to sneak in veggies, especially for picky eaters.
Make them spicy by adding chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce. Serve with sour cream to balance the heat.
You can make them gluten-free by using almond flour, gluten-free flour, or even crushed rice crackers instead of regular flour.
For a breakfast version, serve the cakes with a fried or poached egg on top and a side of bacon or avocado slices. They’re delicious alongside eggs Benedict or a full breakfast spread.
Tips
Use mashed potatoes that are not too creamy—drier mashed potatoes hold together better. If necessary, refrigerate your mash for an hour before starting.
Don’t skip the egg—it helps hold the cakes together. If your mixture still seems loose, try adding more flour or some breadcrumbs for extra binding.
A non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron pan works best for frying, as it prevents sticking and ensures an even golden crust.
Make sure your oil or butter is hot before adding the cakes to the pan. A hot pan helps create that crispy, browned exterior you’re aiming for.
If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked cakes warm in a low oven on a wire rack so they stay crispy instead of getting soggy on a plate.
Potato cakes can be frozen. After shaping them, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a bag and store in the freezer. Cook from frozen when ready to use.
Serve with sauces like sour cream, ranch, ketchup, or aioli. You can also top them with smoked salmon or cream cheese for a fancier presentation.
Conclusion
Potato cakes made from leftover mashed potatoes are a smart and delicious way to reduce food waste while enjoying something comforting and flavorful. They require minimal ingredients and are endlessly adaptable, making them a go-to recipe for busy days or quick meals.
With the right techniques and a few creative twists, your leftover mashed potatoes can become the highlight of your meal. Whether served as a snack, a side dish, or the main event, potato cakes never disappoint.