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Ultimate Crispy Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes with Cheddar and Chives

A stack of four golden brown, pan-fried mashed potato cakes garnished with fresh chives.
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Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into golden, crispy potato cakes with a soft, fluffy center. This easy recipe adds cheddar and chives for maximum flavor, making it a perfect budget-friendly side dish or 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 finely chopped fresh chives
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup butter or cooking oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cold leftover mashed potatoes, beaten egg, flour, shredded cheddar cheese, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined; do not overmix.
  2. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a thick patty, about 3/4 inch thick. If the mixture is too soft to handle, chill the patties for 15 minutes.
  3. Heat the butter or cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You need enough fat to coat the bottom of the pan well.
  4. Carefully place the potato cakes into the hot skillet, ensuring you do not crowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary.
  5. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until the exterior is deep golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning before the inside is heated through.
  6. Remove the crispy potato cakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
  7. Serve your mashed potato cakes immediately as a side dish or light meal.

Notes

  • For the best crispy texture, make sure your mashed potatoes are cold before mixing. Warm mash will result in a softer, less defined cake.
  • If you do not have chives, substitute with 1/4 cup of finely chopped green onions or 1 teaspoon of dried onion flakes.
  • Serve these savory potato pancakes with a dollop of sour cream or a side of applesauce for a classic pairing.
  • This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastytipster.com/mashed-potato-cakes-recipe/