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.