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Leftover Loaded Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes

Two golden brown, pan-fried mashed potato cakes stacked, with the top one broken open to show the fluffy interior.
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Turn your leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden-brown patties filled with cheese. These potato cakes offer a satisfying crunch outside and a soft center, perfect as a quick snack or a comforting side dish for dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon (optional)
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for dredging)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, beaten egg, flour, shredded cheese, bacon (if using), scallions, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  2. Place the panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate.
  3. Scoop about 1/3 cup of the potato mixture and shape it into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick.
  4. Dredge each patty lightly in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere to both sides.
  5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should coat the bottom of the pan.
  6. Carefully place the potato cakes into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the skillet. Work in batches if necessary.
  7. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until the exterior is golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove the cooked potato cakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  9. Serve immediately as a side dish or a quick potato snack.

Notes

  • Use cold mashed potatoes; this helps the cakes hold their shape during frying.
  • For an extra crispy exterior, you can substitute half of the panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes.
  • These potato cakes reheat well in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness.

Nutrition

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