Made potato cakes with leftover mashed potatoes
Have you ever found yourself with a bowl of leftover mashed potatoes, wondering what to do with them? Look no further! These cheesy, crispy potato cakes are the perfect solution. Quick to prepare and oh-so-delicious, they’re an excellent choice for breakfast or as a side dish. Let’s transform those leftovers into a new family favorite in under 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare.
- A great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins and toppings.
- Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Large skillet
- Wire rack
- Baking sheet
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1-2 cups all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil
Optional Add-Ins:
- Ranch seasoning
- Garlic
- Chopped bacon
- Ham
- Onions
- Diced vegetables
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Green onions (chopped)
Instructions
- Place your mashed potatoes, eggs, cheese, and one cup of flour into a large bowl.
- Stir until well combined.
- Gradually add up to one more cup of flour until the potato mixture becomes thick enough to hold its shape on the griddle.
- Heat a large skillet with about 1/4 inch of oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, drop the batter by 3/4 cup full (or smaller if desired) into the oil. Use a spoon to spread slightly into a round “pancake”.
- Cook until the pancake is golden brown on one side. Then flip and continue to cook until the patty is golden brown on the second side and cooked through.
- Place a wire rack on a baking sheet. As you remove the potato cakes, place them on the wire rack so any extra oil drips down and they don’t get soggy.
- Top with sour cream and green onions.
- Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your mashed potatoes are well-seasoned before starting.
- Adjust the amount of flour based on the moisture in your mashed potatoes.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add-ins to suit your taste. You can also try serving these potato cakes with a side of applesauce or a spicy dipping sauce for a unique twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While nutritional values will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, these potato cakes are a hearty and satisfying dish, packed with protein from the eggs and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use instant mashed potatoes? Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, though the texture may vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover potato cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness.
Can I freeze these potato cakes? Yes, you can freeze them. Allow the cakes to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
These delicious potato cakes are a fantastic way to reinvent your leftovers into something tasty and satisfying. Easy to make and delightful to eat, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out for you. Share your experience and any variations you try in the comments below!
