What are mashed potato cakes?
Mashed potato cakes are a delicious and versatile dish made from leftover mashed potatoes. These savory cakes are typically formed by combining mashed potatoes with ingredients such as beaten eggs, chopped onions, herbs, and sometimes cheese or bacon. The mixture is then shaped into patties and fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside. They can be served as a side dish, a light meal, or even as a tasty snack. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, mashed potato cakes are a wonderful way to repurpose leftovers into something new and flavorful.
What should I serve with mashed potato cakes?
For a delightful and well-rounded meal, try pairing mashed potato cakes with a variety of complementary dishes:
- A crisp, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. (You’ve got to try this amazing Strawberry Salad!!)
- Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or carrots for a nutritious and colorful addition. (These Honey Butter Carrots are one of our favorite side dishes.)
- For protein, consider grilled chicken, salmon, or a savory mushroom sauce to enhance the flavors of the potato cakes.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as chives or parsley for an extra layer of taste and visual appeal.
Do you love potatoes? You’ll also love these other potato recipes – yum!!
- Mashed Potato Casserole – a holiday favorite at our house!
- Creamy Ranch and Dill Potato Salad – perfect addition to any BBQ or picnic
- Ham and Broccoli Potato Soup – simple and easy and my kids just love it
- Sweet Potato Hash – only 5 ingredients and makes a quick weeknight meal
Ingredients you’ll need to make this mashed potato cakes recipe:
- leftover mashed potatoes, cold
- eggs
- flour (all purpose, self rising, or gluten free flour if you need that!)
- OPTIONAL: diced onion, green chiles, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, herbs, garlic, or any other flavors you enjoy with potatoes
How to store potato cakes to keep them fresh and delicious?
- First, allow the potato cakes to cool completely to room temperature. This prevents condensation and sogginess. Once cooled, place the potato cakes in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze the potato cakes. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer until they are frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer the potato cakes to a freezer-safe bag or container, again using parchment paper between layers. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months.
- When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the potato cakes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a skillet to bring back their crispy texture.
Mashed Potato Cakes Recipe
Delicious crispy potato cakes made from leftover mashed potatoes and just a few other ingredients!
Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 3 large eggs
- ½ to 1 cup all purpose flour
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- optional: cheese, crumbled bacon, canned green chiles, herbs, ranch seasoning, sour cream
- vegetable oil or butter for frying
Instructions
Add mashed potatoes, eggs, cheese, and ½ cup of flour to a large bowl. Stir until fully combined.
Gradually add up to 1/2 more cup of flour if needed, until the potato mixture becomes thick enough to hold its shape.
Heat a skillet over medium high heat, and add a few tablespoons of butter or vegetable oil to pan.
Once the butter or oil is hot, drop 1/3 cup of potato mixture into the pan. Press on the mound with a spatula or spoon to form it into a round patty shape.
Cook until the cake is golden brown on the bottom, then flip over and cook the other side until golden.
Remove from the pan and let cool on a wire rack, so that the cakes stay crispy!
Top with sour cream or your favorite sauce.
