Why Make This Recipe
Mashed Potato Cakes are a delicious and creative way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. They are simple to prepare and bring out comforting flavors. Plus, they make for a great snack or side dish. Everyone loves crispy on the outside and soft on the inside cakes, making them a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings.
How to Make Mashed Potato Cakes
Ingredients:
- 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes (Make sure they are cold for easier handling.)
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your choice) (Adjust based on dietary preferences.)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.)
- 1 piece egg (Substitute with flaxseed egg for vegan version.)
- Salt and pepper to taste (Essential for flavor.)
- Oil for frying
Directions:
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, grated cheese, chopped green onions, flour, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Shape the potato mixture into patties.
- Cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Serving
- Remove the cakes from the skillet and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve warm, perhaps with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite sauce.
How to Serve Mashed Potato Cakes
Mashed Potato Cakes can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. Pair them with dips like sour cream, ranch, or even ketchup. They also go well with a fresh salad or your favorite entrees.
How to Store Mashed Potato Cakes
To store leftover Mashed Potato Cakes, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to separate each cake with parchment paper before freezing. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Mashed Potato Cakes
- Ensure your mashed potatoes are cold. This helps them hold their shape when frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet while frying; cook in batches for even browning.
- Experiment with spices or add-ins like garlic powder, herbs, or cooked bacon to enhance the flavor.
Variation
For a twist, you can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or corn to the mixture. You could also try different types of cheese or make them spicy by adding some jalapeños.
FAQs
Can I make Mashed Potato Cakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it. Cook the cakes when you are ready to serve.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet and lightly brush them with oil. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What do I do if my mixture is too wet?
If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more flour until it reaches the right consistency. This will help the cakes hold their shape when frying.

Mashed Potato Cakes
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, grated cheese, chopped green onions, flour, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Shape the potato mixture into patties.
- Cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the cakes from the skillet and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve warm, perhaps with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite sauce.