These crispy, golden potato cakes are a fantastic way to use leftover mashed potatoes. They’re loaded with cheese and make a perfect side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (or chives)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for coating)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil) for frying
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, and beaten egg. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add Seasoning: Add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the potato mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Form the Cakes:
- Place some extra flour on a plate.
- Take a couple of tablespoons of the potato mixture and form it into a round, flat cake (about 1/2 inch thick).
- Lightly coat both sides of the potato cake with the flour.
- Repeat with the remaining potato mixture.
- Cook the Cakes:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the potato cakes in the skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the cakes gently with a spatula.
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the cooked potato cakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions or a dollop of sour cream (optional).
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
- Additions: You can add cooked bacon bits, chopped ham, or sautéed vegetables (like mushrooms or onions) to the potato mixture for extra flavor.
- Baking: For a healthier option, you can bake the potato cakes instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the formed cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray with cooking spray, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, ketchup, or a creamy garlic aioli.
- Spices: add a pinch of paprika, or cayenne pepper for a little kick.
- Herbs: add fresh herbs such as thyme, or rosemary.