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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 leftover mashed potatoes into crispy pan-fried cakes with a creamy interior. This recipe adds cheddar cheese and fresh chives for flavor, making it a quick, budget-friendly side dish or appetizer.

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
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons butter or oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Place the cold mashed potatoes in a medium bowl.
  2. Add the beaten egg, flour, shredded cheddar cheese, chives, salt, and pepper to the potatoes.
  3. Mix gently with a fork until just combined. Do not overmix; the mixture should hold its shape when pressed.
  4. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture and form it into a thick patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining mixture to form 8 to 10 cakes.
  5. Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The fat should coat the bottom of the pan.
  6. Carefully place the potato cakes in the hot skillet, ensuring they do not touch. Work in batches if necessary.
  7. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on the first side until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
  8. Flip the cakes gently and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the second side is golden brown and the center is heated through.
  9. Remove the cakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  10. Serve the mashed potato cakes immediately with sour cream or your preferred topping.

Notes

  • For the crispiest outside, ensure your mashed potatoes are cold before mixing and forming the cakes.
  • If your mash is too loose, add 1 extra tablespoon of flour until the mixture is manageable.
  • You can substitute chives with green onions or a pinch of garlic powder for different flavor profiles.
  • These cakes reheat well in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness.

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