Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes

Are you staring at a mound of leftover mashed potatoes, wondering how to transform them into something delightful? Well, you’re in luck! These leftover mashed potato cakes are not just a clever way to use up those pesky extras but are also deliciously crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a side dish, or even a fun brunch option, these cakes are the answer to your culinary conundrum. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this tasty dish and make the most out of those mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

For the perfect leftover mashed potato cakes, gather the following:

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1/4 cup of finely chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp of garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
• 1/2 tsp of onion powder (optional for extra flavor)
• Olive oil or butter for frying

Feel free to substitute with the following ingredients if you prefer:

• Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.
• Replace cheese with dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
• Instead of an egg, use a flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan binding agent.
• Opt for low-carb alternatives like almond flour.

Timing

Preparation time for these cakes is around 10 minutes, and cooking time typically takes 20 minutes, so you’re looking at a total time of about 30 minutes. It’s a relatively quick recipe, perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes

Step 1: Start by placing your leftover mashed potatoes in a mixing bowl. Make sure they’re sufficiently cool, as this will help maintain the cake’s structure.

Step 2: Into the bowl, crack in the large egg, and then sprinkle in the flour. Combine these ingredients thoroughly until you achieve an even mixture.

Step 3: It’s time to add flavor! Toss in the shredded cheese, green onions, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 4: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil or a pat of butter. Wait until the oil is hot and shimmering—this ensures a crispy crust!

Step 5: Using your hands, form small patties from the potato mixture, about the size of your palm. Gently place them in the hot skillet, giving them room to breathe.

Step 6: Cook the cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Flip them carefully to avoid breaking.

Step 7: Once cooked, transfer the cakes onto a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make your mashed potato cakes even healthier, consider these swaps:

• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower mash in place of regular mashed potatoes. It’s a fantastic way to cut carbs while keeping the flavor.
• Vegan Alternative: Replace the egg with a mix of flaxseed and water. This will help bind the cakes together without using any animal products.
• Dairy-Free: Opt for oat milk cheese instead of regular cheese, making it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant.

Serving Suggestions

Get creative! Serve your leftover mashed potato cakes with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. Pair them with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or sauté some seasonal vegetables to accompany the dish. For a brunch twist, pair these cakes with a poached egg on top and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. They also complement a zesty salsa or homemade apple chutney, adding a delightful contrast to the rich flavor of the cakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some pitfalls you might encounter when making these cakes, along with some practical solutions:

• Too Much Moisture: If your mashed potatoes are too watery, your cakes won’t hold together. If you find that’s the case, simply add more flour until you achieve the desired consistency.
• Frying Too Hot: If the skillet is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. Use a medium heat and test the oil by dropping a small piece of the mixture in—if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
• Not Enough Flavor: Ensure that you season well! Tasting the mixture before frying is key. Adjust the salt and spices to your liking.

Storage Tips

Leftover mashed potato cakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. If you plan to make a batch ahead of time, these cakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to layer the cakes with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and thaw them in the fridge before cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

While fresh mashed potatoes yield the best results in terms of texture and taste, you can use instant mashed potatoes if that’s what you have. Just be mindful that the water-to-powder ratio may differ and you’ll likely need to adjust the flour used for binding.

How can I make these cakes spicier?

If you’re craving some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mix. Alternatively, serve them with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! For a healthier option, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flip them halfway through for even browning.

What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with various types of cheese! Pepper jack, feta, or even smoked gouda can add intriguing flavors to your cakes.

Can I prepare the mixture in advance?

Yes! You can make the potato mixture a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and when ready to cook, form the patties and fry them fresh.

Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes

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• Author: emily-mitchell
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Deliciously crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these leftover mashed potato cakes are a perfect way to use up extras!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1/4 cup of finely chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp of garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 tsp of onion powder (optional)
• Olive oil or butter for frying

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

1. Start by placing your leftover mashed potatoes in a mixing bowl. Make sure they’re sufficiently cool.
2. Into the bowl, crack in the large egg, and then sprinkle in the flour. Combine these ingredients thoroughly.
3. Add flavor! Toss in the shredded cheese, green onions, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil or a pat of butter.
5. Using your hands, form small patties from the potato mixture and place them in the hot skillet.
6. Cook the cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
7. Once cooked, transfer the cakes onto a plate lined with paper towels.

Notes

Serve with sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. Pair with a side salad or seasonal vegetables.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Conclusion

Incorporating leftover mashed potatoes into these delightful cakes not only saves you time and food waste but also provides a delicious dish that your whole family will love. The crispy exterior combined with the creamy inside makes for an irresistible treat. So why not give these leftover mashed potato cakes a try? You might just make this dish a regular in your home!