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Ultimate Crispy Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes with Cheddar and Chives

A stack of three perfectly golden brown mashed potato cakes, with a bite taken out of the top one showing the fluffy interior.
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Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into these irresistible, crispy potato cakes. They are golden brown outside, fluffy inside, and perfect as a side dish or quick snack.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. In a large 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 1/4 cup of flour on a shallow plate for dredging.
  3. Scoop about 1/3 cup of the potato mixture and form it into a thick patty, about 1 inch thick. Gently dredge each patty in the flour, coating both sides lightly.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should cover 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. They pair well with sour cream or a dollop of applesauce.

Notes

  • Make sure your mashed potatoes are cold; this helps the cakes hold their shape during frying.
  • If your mash seems too loose, add one more tablespoon of flour until the mixture is manageable.
  • For extra flavor, substitute half the cheddar cheese with Parmesan cheese.
  • These are excellent for using up Thanksgiving leftovers.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishdiarist.com/mashed-potato-cakes-crispy-leftover-recipe/