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Ultimate Crispy Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes with Cheddar and Chives

A stack of perfectly golden brown, pan-fried mashed potato cakes flecked with green herbs on a white plate.

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Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into these ultimate crispy potato cakes. They feature a golden, crunchy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, enhanced with sharp cheddar and fresh chives. This recipe makes using up leftovers easy and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, or as needed for frying

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, beaten egg, 1/2 cup flour, cheddar cheese, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  2. Place the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour on a shallow plate for dredging.
  3. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture and form it into a thick patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Gently press both sides of the patty into the dredging flour to lightly coat. Repeat with the remaining mixture to form 8 to 10 cakes.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should coat the bottom of the pan.
  5. Carefully place the potato cakes into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary.
  6. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until the cakes are deep golden brown and crispy.
  7. Remove the crispy potato cakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. Serve your mashed potato cakes immediately as a side dish or snack.

Notes

  • If your leftover mashed potatoes are very soft or loose, add 1 more tablespoon of flour to the mixture to help the cakes hold their shape during frying.
  • For extra flavor, substitute half of the cheddar cheese with Parmesan cheese.
  • Serve these savory potato pancakes with a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt.

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