These crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside mashed potato cakes are a perfect way to use leftover mashed potatoes. They make a fantastic side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 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)
- Vegetable oil or olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, and beaten egg.
- Add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Form the Cakes:
- Lightly flour your hands.
- Take about 1/4 cup of the mashed potato mixture and form it into a round, flat cake, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Place the formed cakes on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Continue until all the mixture is used.
- Coat the Cakes:
- Place some flour in a shallow dish.
- Lightly coat each cake with flour, shaking off any excess.
- Cook the Cakes:
- Heat vegetable oil or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully place the mashed potato cakes in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the cakes gently with a spatula.
- Serve:
- Remove the cooked mashed 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 your favorite toppings (sour cream, chives, etc.).
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack, for a different flavor.
- Additions: You can add cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or sautéed vegetables to the mashed potato mixture.
- Baking: For a healthier option, you can bake the cakes instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated cakes on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also be added.
- Binding: If your mixture is too wet, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.