Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes
If you love comfort food that’s golden, crispy, and full of flavor, these Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes will become one of your favorite side dishes. Made from creamy mashed potatoes mixed with melty cheese, lightly seasoned, and pan-fried until golden brown, they’re irresistibly delicious on the outside and soft on the inside.
This recipe is also a fantastic way to use leftover mashed potatoes — transforming simple ingredients into a crispy, cheesy delight that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether served with eggs, grilled meat, or a fresh salad, these potato cakes are always a crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and creamy: Perfect balance of textures with a golden crust and soft center.
- Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples you already have on hand.
- Versatile: Serve as a side dish, snack, or even a vegetarian main course.
- Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients and helps reduce food waste.
- Quick to make: Ready in less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
For the Potato Cakes
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover, at room temperature)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil for frying
Optional Add-Ins
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for richer flavor
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder for a savory kick
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika for warmth
- Cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham for a heartier version
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, egg, flour, and seasonings.
Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The mixture should hold together easily without sticking too much to your hands.
If it feels too soft or sticky, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s easier to shape.
Step 2: Shape the Potato Cakes
Divide the mixture into equal portions and roll each into a ball. Flatten gently into round patties about ½ inch thick.
You can make them smaller for appetizers or larger for main-course servings. Place the shaped cakes on a plate and refrigerate for about 10–15 minutes to firm up (optional but helpful for maintaining shape).
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add butter or oil and let it melt until shimmering.
Step 4: Pan-Fry Until Golden
Place the potato cakes in the hot pan without overcrowding. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Avoid flipping too early; let the bottom crisp up first before turning. Add more butter or oil as needed between batches.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Transfer the cooked potato cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve immediately while warm and the cheese is still gooey.
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.
Serving Ideas
- Breakfast: Pair with fried eggs and a side of bacon.
- Lunch: Serve alongside a green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Dinner: Perfect with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- Snack or Appetizer: Offer with sour cream, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping.
These potato cakes are versatile enough to fit any meal and are loved by both kids and adults.
Recipe Tips
- Use cold mashed potatoes: They’re firmer and make shaping the cakes easier.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until the ingredients come together for the best texture.
- Keep heat moderate: Medium heat ensures crisp outsides without burning.
- Use the right pan: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet gives the best crust.
- Rest before serving: A short rest lets them set and keeps the crust intact.
Variations
1. Cheddar and Chive
Replace mozzarella with sharp cheddar and add finely chopped chives for a more pronounced flavor.
2. Spicy Potato Cakes
Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat. Serve with spicy mayo or hot sauce.
3. Loaded Potato Cakes
Add crumbled bacon, green onions, and shredded cheese — just like a loaded baked potato.
4. Herb and Garlic
Blend in fresh herbs such as dill, thyme, or parsley along with a hint of garlic powder.
5. Vegetarian Option
Skip any meat add-ins and pair the cakes with roasted vegetables or a light yogurt dip.
Dipping Sauce Ideas
- Sour cream and chive dip
- Garlic or lemon aioli
- Ranch dressing
- Sweet chili sauce
- Classic ketchup or spicy mayo
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
Allow the potato cakes to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Place the cooled cakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1–2 hours. Then transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and re-crisp in a skillet or oven.
Reheating
Warm in a non-stick pan over low heat until hot and crisp again, or bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Too much moisture: If your mashed potatoes are too wet, add a bit of flour or breadcrumbs.
- Flipping too early: Let the crust form before turning to prevent sticking.
- Overcrowding the pan: This traps steam and softens the crust. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Skipping seasoning: Taste your potato mixture before frying; it should be flavorful on its own.
Healthier Baking Option
If you prefer to bake instead of frying:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange potato cakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly brush each side with oil or melted butter.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
This version uses less oil while still producing a delicious crust.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the potato mixture a day ahead, shape the patties, and store them covered in the refrigerator. Fry just before serving for the freshest results.
Alternatively, cook them fully and reheat when needed — they hold up beautifully for meal prep.
Nutritional Highlights
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes are comforting yet balanced:
- Potatoes provide potassium, fiber, and energy.
- Cheese adds calcium and protein.
- Eggs help bind the mixture while adding nutrients.
- Olive oil or butter delivers rich flavor and healthy fats when used moderately.
A great way to enjoy comfort food with real, wholesome ingredients.
Perfect Pairings
- Roasted chicken or turkey
- Grilled salmon or shrimp
- Steamed vegetables
- Fresh tomato salad
- Creamy coleslaw
For breakfast, they’re amazing with scrambled eggs or topped with a poached egg for a hearty start to the day.
FAQs
1. Can I make these without eggs?
Yes. Replace the egg with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or flour mixed with a little milk or water as a binder.
2. What kind of cheese works best?
Mozzarella gives stretchiness, cheddar adds sharpness, and Parmesan deepens the flavor — use any combination you like.
3. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but use a slightly thicker consistency than usual so the mixture holds its shape.
4. How do I prevent sticking?
Use a well-seasoned skillet and enough oil or butter. Don’t move the cakes until they’ve formed a crust.
5. Can I air fry them?
Yes. Spray lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes are a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence — crispy on the outside, tender inside, and filled with melted cheese. They’re easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and suitable for any meal of the day.
Whether you’re repurposing leftover mashed potatoes or preparing them fresh, this recipe delivers comfort food at its finest. Serve them straight from the pan for the best texture and watch them disappear quickly.
Save this recipe for your next family gathering, brunch, or weeknight meal — it’s a guaranteed hit every time.
