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Ultimate Crispy Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes (Cheesy & Easy)

A stack of three golden brown, crispy mashed potato cakes, one cut open showing melted cheese inside.
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Make crispy mashed potato cakes using your leftover mashed potatoes. These easy potato patties are cheesy, pan-fried until golden brown, and perfect as a comfort food side dish or savory breakfast.

Ingredients

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  • 3 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs, plus 1/2 cup for dredging
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, beaten egg, flour, cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  2. Place the remaining 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate.
  3. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture and form it into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Gently press both sides of the patty into the panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should shimmer slightly when ready.
  5. Carefully place the potato cakes into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary.
  6. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until the cakes are golden brown and crispy on the exterior.
  7. Remove the cooked potato cakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. Serve the mashed potato cakes immediately as a side dish or savory breakfast idea.

Notes

  • Use cold mashed potatoes; this helps the cakes hold their shape during cooking.
  • For extra flavor, add 2 tablespoons of chopped chives or cooked bacon bits to the potato mixture.
  • If your mixture seems too wet to form patties, add one more tablespoon of flour or panko.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hearthbite.com/mashed-potato-cakes/