When it comes to making the most out of your leftovers, nothing beats these crispy potato cakes. This easy recipe takes simple ingredients you likely already have on hand and transforms them into a flavorful, comforting treat. If you’ve ever wondered what to do with that leftover mashed potatoes from a hearty family meal, this is the perfect solution to turn them into something delicious.
Our family loves these delicious golden fried mashed potato cakes.
A Savory or Sweet Twist for Any Meal
One of the greatest things about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re craving a savory snack or looking to add a little sweetness to your breakfast, these fried potato cakes have you covered.
- Savory Side Dish. Serve them warm, sprinkled with cheese and fresh herbs, as the perfect accompaniment to dinner.
- Sweet Treat. Try them drizzled with maple syrup for a breakfast treat reminiscent of potato pancakes, with a surprising yet delightful twist.
- Leftover Sweet Potatoes? Swap in mashed sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter version that pairs beautifully with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg.
No matter how you serve them, these crispy potato patties are a fantastic way to breathe new life into your leftover mashed potatoes—whether from Thanksgiving dinner or last night’s meal. And once you taste them, you might just find yourself making fresh mashed potatoes just for the excuse to whip these up again!
Turn Leftover Mashed Potatoes into Crispy Potato Cakes
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Ingredients
- 2 Cups Leftover Mashed Potatoes
- 1/2 Cup All-Purpose Flour adjust as needed for consistency
- 2 Large Eggs
- Oil for frying olive oil, vegetable oil, avocado oil, or canola oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flour, and eggs. Stir until smooth. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more flour; if too dry, add a splash of milk or another egg.2 Cups Leftover Mashed Potatoes, 1/2 Cup All-Purpose Flour, 2 Large Eggs
- Scoop and shape the potato mixture into patties, pressing lightly to flatten.
- Heat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat, adding enough oil to coat the bottom. When the oil shimmers, fry the patties in a single layer for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.Oil for frying
- Transfer to a serving plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve warm, topped with your favorite sauces or toppings.
Notes
Getting the Right Consistency
The secret to the perfect mashed potato patty is the right texture. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape, but not too dry or crumbly. Here’s what to look for:• Thick but workable. It should hold its shape when scooped but not be too firm.
• Slightly sticky. The batter should be just sticky enough to form patties without being too hard to handle.
• Not too wet. If the mixture is too runny, add more flour. If it’s too thick, a little milk or an extra egg can loosen it up.
Aim for a consistency similar to cookie dough—firm but easy to work with.
Recipe Tips
• Use a measuring cup to form even portions, ensuring uniform cooking.• Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in a single layer for crispy cakes.
• Let the oil get hot before frying—when it shimmers, you’re ready to go.
• A little flour is key to binding the patties together perfectly.
Nutrition
Recipe Variations
Savory Cheesy Herb Potato Cakes
Transform your mashed potato cakes into a savory delight by adding:
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese (or pre-shredded cheese)
- 2 tbsp parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp finely chopped green onion
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Optional: 2 tbsp cream cheese for added creaminess
- Optional toppings: dollop of sour cream, fresh herbs, or crispy bacon bits.
Sweet Potato Pancakes (Sweet Version)
For a cozy breakfast or snack, try these with a sweet twist:
Replace savory spices with:
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Optional: Stir in a handful of raisins or mashed sweet potatoes
- Optional toppings: maple syrup, honey, or fruit preserves for a deliciously sweet treat.
Storing Leftover Potato Patties
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For best results, reheat in a skillet, oven, or air fryer.
Freezing the Crispy Potato Cakes
Freeze for later use by placing them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating. The best way to reheat frozen mashed potato patties is to ensure they stay crispy on the outside while heating through thoroughly. Here are a few methods to reheat them:
Oven (Best for Crispiness):
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the frozen patties on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on the outside. You can lightly brush them with oil for extra crispiness if needed.
Air Fryer (Quick and Crispy):
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange the frozen patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the patties are heated through and crispy.
Skillet (For Crispiness and Quick Reheating):
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil.
Place the frozen patties in the skillet in a single layer.
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, turning carefully, until they are crispy and heated through.
Microwave (Quick but Less Crispy):
If you’re in a hurry, microwave the patties on a microwave-safe plate, covered with a damp paper towel, for about 1-2 minutes. However, the texture will be softer, and you won’t get the same crispy finish as with the other methods.
For the best results, the oven or air fryer method is ideal for retaining the crispiness of the patties while reheating them evenly.
These simple yet satisfying potato cakes are a great way to minimize food waste while enjoying a delicious snack or side dish, especially when you have a homestead full of hearty ingredients to work with. Enjoy them any time of day—savory or sweet—and watch them quickly become a family favorite!
My family loved this!